235. TNE TALKS: Life After Doom // Brian McLaren

Summary Brian McLaren discusses his new book, Life After Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart, that addresses the multiple crises facing our world, including climate change, white Christian nationalism, and ecological overshoot. McLaren emphasizes the feeling of doom that many people experience and the need for a deep spiritual transformation to address the root problem.  Takeaways Denial and misinformation about climate change are fueled by economic interests, partisan affiliations, and ideological biases. Theological arguments, such as the belief in the imminent return of Jesus, can hinder environmental stewardship. Disembedding our identity from the values of our current civilization is crucial for envisioning life after doom. Renewing our minds and adopting a different set of assumptions and values can lead to personal transformation. Rediscovering indigenous wisdom can provide valuable insights into our interconnectedness with the earth and the need for a holistic approach to environmental stewardship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:29 The Poly Crisis 06:01 The Root Problem: Ecological Overshoot 10:01 The Motivation Behind Denial 11:28 The Theological Argument 16:28 The Influence of Conservative Media 21:52 The Impact of Rapture Theology 29:35 Life After Doom 30:17 Disembedding Identity 32:18 The Bible and the End of Civilization 33:37 Coping with the End of Civilization 36:19 Bringing Good News  38:10 Addressing Pressing Issues 41:19 Voting and Talking About Concerns 45:24 Business and Science as Agents of Change 49:02 Religion's Role in the Transformation 50:20 Rediscovering Indigenous Wisdom Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community! If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  Subscribe On YouTube The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center. We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices