Coming to Faith Doesn’t Mean the Search Is Over
In Episode #4176 of Day1, Rev. Dr. Jared Alcántara, Professor of Preaching at Baylor’s Truett Seminary, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with host Rev. Dr. Katie Givens Kime on spiritual longing and growth. With insights drawn from Philippians 3:4b-14, Rev. Dr. Alcántara delves into the notion that the end of one spiritual search is not a conclusion but rather an opportunity for new beginnings.
As they reflect on the apostle Paul's teachings, they challenge listeners to consider how transformation occurs when we fully surrender to Christ, highlighting themes of identity, storytelling, and grace. Whether you’re a preacher, teacher, or someone seeking deeper meaning in your faith journey, this conversation provides a rich tapestry of insights for continued spiritual renewal.
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Transcript
Rev. Dr. Katie Givens Kime
I love this idea of the search ending, and yet discovering that it's not the end. How is it that we continue persevering on the search when we know that the end will not even really be the end?
Rev. Dr. Jared Alcántara
It's a great question. Part of why I made that move in the sermon is that sometimes our testimonies might sound like, "Things were messed up, and then I put my faith in Christ, and now everything's great." Now, the text actually says, "I want to know the fellowship of Christ's sufferings." Paul's testimony doesn't sound like that. But what we see is someone who still wants to know Christ.
So Paul has come to the end of his search only so that a new beginning might take place. I think that's a healthy way to think about search theologically.
Reflection
Rev. Dr. Jared Alcántara invites us to ponder the idea that faith is a dynamic journey, not a finite destination. Drawing inspiration from Philippians 3, he challenges the notion of spiritual contentment through a static end. Instead, he envisions every conclusion as an invitation to deeper fellowship with Christ.
This compelling perspective is crucial for preachers, teachers, and seekers of faith, encouraging continuous growth and surrender. Embracing new beginnings, we encounter grace anew, shifting from performance to transformation.
Questions to Consider:
- How have you experienced new beginnings in your faith after reaching a perceived end?
- In what ways can you cultivate a mindset of ongoing search and transformation?
Explore Rev. Dr. Jared Alcántara’s full sermon from episode 4176 >>>
