Many Christians say the Bible isn’t a textbook—but still treat it like one. Joseph Dea, pastor, podcaster, and founder of Buddy Walk with Jesus, is on Christianity Without Compromise (formerly Smashing Idols) with host Jake Doberenz to explore why the Bible isn’t meant to simply give answers but to form us spiritually. They unpack how shame, church culture, and academic rigidity shape our engagement with scripture—and how a story-first, transformational posture changes everything. Drawing from his own journey through spiritual and neurological challenges, Joseph offers practical tools for reading the Bible holistically, without turning it into an idol or a weapon.

Key Takeaways:

Many Christians treat the Bible as a rulebook rather than a relational story, leading to shallow engagement and misinterpretation.

Approaching scripture with humility—asking what it reveals about God and humanity—creates space for transformation, not just information.

Bible literacy requires personal ownership, not just passive acceptance of pastoral interpretation or Google search results.

Important Links

Joe’s Shows: https://www.kfmbroadcasting.com/team/dea-j

Joe Dea is a pastor, podcaster, and Bible teacher. His first show was BuddyWalk With Jesus but he’s hosted and participated in many other shows as well! Joseph teaches Bible reading and interpretation across churches and schools, focusing on connecting believers with the transformative power of scripture. He is also a founding member of KFM Broadcasting.

SEE ALSO:

Can the Bible be an Idol? - Andrew Fouts

Follow this show and Jake Doberenz’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.

Christianity Without Compromise is a part of the KFM Broadcasting network.