Church for the Rest of Us in a Post-Evangelical World | with Joe Smith, Lead Pastor of Shift GNV

Talkin‘ Politics & Religion Without Killin‘ Each Other

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Is there a church that can be for the rest of us? Are we living in a "post-evangelical" world?

In this episode, we welcome Joe Smith, lead pastor of Shift GNV in Gainesville, Florida, and host of the Shift Happens Podcast. Known for creating "a church for the rest of us," Joe shares his journey through faith deconstruction and reconstruction, building a community for those feeling spiritually homeless in a post-evangelical world. The conversation explores his innovative ministry, personal experiences, and the broader implications of inclusivity and resistance in modern faith communities.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:00] - Corey introduces Joe Smith and dives into his work at Shift GNV, emphasizing the concept of "a church for the rest of us."
[00:02:30] - Joe explains the origins and purpose of Shift GNV, creating a safe space for people navigating post-evangelical spirituality.
[00:06:00] - Defining "post-evangelical" and reflecting on the societal shift away from rigid evangelical structures.
[00:14:30] - Joe recounts his personal experience with religious trauma, including grappling with the fear-based teachings of his upbringing.
[00:23:00] - The transformative impact of fatherhood on Joe's beliefs about gender roles and inclusion.
[00:34:00] - A modern perspective on the parable of the Good Samaritan and its application to societal divisions today.
[00:41:00] - Joe's views on resisting MAGA ideologies and the responsibility of faith communities to challenge injustice.
[00:52:00] - Introducing the Post Evangelical Collective (PEC) and its role in fostering forward-thinking, inclusive church practices.

Featured Quotes

"If I believe that God is love, then this [fear-based compulsion] doesn’t produce good fruit—it can’t be of God."
"Jesus wasn’t scandalous for who he excluded, but for who he included."
"My belonging to God isn’t complete until I understand my belonging to you."
"The boundaries I set are the best way to love you and myself simultaneously."

Resources Mentioned

Shift GNV: Shift Church Gainesville
Shift Happens Podcast: Podcast Link
Post Evangelical Collective: Learn More Here
Recommended Reading: After Evangelicalism by Dr. David Gushee.

Call to Action

Social Media Links

Corey Nathan (@coreysnathan):

Joe Smith

Bluesky (@therealjoesmith.bsky.social)
Instagram (@therealjoe.smith)
Threads (@therealjoe.smith)

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