Shows
Staircase to NowhereTexting: How Should We Interpret the Bible? Tools for Understanding ScriptureIn this lively conversation, the hosts dive into biblical interpretation, exploring whether the Bible should be read literally, figuratively, or somewhere in between. From dissecting Old Testament narratives to decoding Jesus’ parables, this episode tackles the complexity of engaging with scripture thoughtfully. The trio explores questions like:Are some Bible verses metaphors?How should we interpret the flood in Noah’s story?Does every miracle need to be taken as historical fact?The hosts also break down different interpretive frameworks—such as historical-grammatical vs. allegorical interpretations—to help listeners better understand how to r...2024-10-2752 min
Staircase to NowhereMailbag: Relativism + Street PreachersWant to submit a question of your own? Shoot us an email or find us on Instagram!staircasepod@gmail.comstnpod2024-06-1643 min
Staircase to NowhereChurch & Mission: How do we know when we’re doing a good job?In American culture, we often measure the success of a church through the 3 B’s: buildings, budgets, and butts in seats—even though we know that’s not the best indicator of spiritual growth and health. So what is?stnpod@gmail.comstnpod2024-04-1452 min
Staircase to NowhereDeconstruction Capstone: Q&R + ReflectionsToday on the show, we are sharing some final thoughts and reflections on our deconstruction conversation. We talk a little bit about how to engage lovingly with our friends who have deconstructed, we respond to some listener mail, and we share a few final thoughts before landing the plane on the series.staircasepod@gmail.comstnpod2024-04-0745 min
Staircase to NowhereFundamentalism: God said it, I believe it, that settles itThis week, we are having a conversation about fundamentalism and we are joined by a very special guest, Sam’s mom. We try to answer some big picture questions regarding christian fundamentalism and try to navigate why people are drawn to a fundamentalist worldview. We also try to offer some ways forward to those who feel like they have been hurt by fundamentalist communities. Shiny Happy PeopleDavid French Articlestaircasepod@gmail.comInstagram: stnpod2024-03-2459 min
Staircase to NowhereThe Church and Toxic LeadersThe cat is out of the bag, the church is full of toxic leaders. At least it feels that way sometimes. Lots of people are raising alarms and pointing out how messed up some of our pastors are and it’s causing a lot of people to ask hard questions. Why do communities dedicated to following Jesus produce leaders that turn out to be narcissistic and abusive? What’s wrong, and what needs to change? Join us as we share our experiences, thoughts on church architecture, and reflect on the hope we still hold even in the midst of so m...2024-03-1749 min
Staircase to NowhereThe Great DeChurching: where's all the people?This week we are discussing The Great DeChurching, a book highlighting trends in what the authors suggest is “the biggest religious shift in American history”. In this book, authors Jim Davis and Michael Graham ask and answer questions like, who is walking away from the church, and what’s causing them to leave? Their study finds that while millions of Americans have left the church, many of them are still open to spiritual things. We discuss their findings and try to consider a way forward. How can we encourage people to consider Jesus in an age that is increasingly anti-r...2024-03-1053 min
Staircase to NowhereIntroduction to Deconstruction: What is faith?Deconstruction. If you are anything like us, you are probably tired of hearing this word. Nonetheless, the dust seems to have settled on the conversation so we have officially entered the chat. What are people talking about when they say deconstruction? What do we actually mean when we talk about faith in Jesus? Is there a way forward when doubts and questions feel more real than the faith that’s been presented to us? Join us over the next few weeks as we try to make sense of some of some of these questions. Email: ...2024-03-0349 min