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Deconstruct Faith, Discover Jesus: How Questioning Your Religion Can Lead You to a Healthy and Holy God
What If Deconstructing Your Faith Isn’t a Phase but a Holy Process?
There’s probably a really good reason you picked up this book. Are you desperate to be in relationship with family or friends who are questioning their faith? Are you experiencing your own deconstruction of faith?
Here is your invitation to rethink everything you thought you knew.
In this process, you’ll . . .
learn why it’s important to deconstruct (and how we are wired to do it);define deconstruction and deconversion—what they really mean;consider WWJD (What Would Jesus Deconstruct?); andapply the FUSE method to deconstruct for yourself.
Deconstruct Faith, Discover Jesus will help you to enter the mindset of a deconstructionist. A worldview with a high capacity for paradoxes. A mental space that outweighs your self-interest in being right. A tendency to see Christian beliefs as inseparable from Christian ethics.
In doing so, you will find the original deconstructionist, Jesus, right beside you.
There’s probably a really good reason you picked up this book. Are you desperate to be in relationship with family or friends who are questioning their faith? Are you experiencing your own deconstruction of faith?
Here is your invitation to rethink everything you thought you knew.
In this process, you’ll . . .
learn why it’s important to deconstruct (and how we are wired to do it);define deconstruction and deconversion—what they really mean;consider WWJD (What Would Jesus Deconstruct?); andapply the FUSE method to deconstruct for yourself.
Deconstruct Faith, Discover Jesus will help you to enter the mindset of a deconstructionist. A worldview with a high capacity for paradoxes. A mental space that outweighs your self-interest in being right. A tendency to see Christian beliefs as inseparable from Christian ethics.
In doing so, you will find the original deconstructionist, Jesus, right beside you.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2023
9 people are currently reading
530 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 21, 2023
Truly great stuff mixed with a lot of confusion and ambiguity. I love his call to deconstruction. I love his call to love and listen. Very powerful criticism of conventional religion here. We need to identify with the struggles of deconstructionists more than we do. He’s also very balanced at many points.
However, I’m not sure he’s clearly paved the way forward. By what standard do we reconstruct? Is it the Bible? Is it Jesus (if it is, what does that mean)? Is it the spirit of the law (how do we know that)? Is it helpfulness? This ambiguity on the standard of truth causes him to lose the sense of possessing the Word of the Lord.
However, I’m not sure he’s clearly paved the way forward. By what standard do we reconstruct? Is it the Bible? Is it Jesus (if it is, what does that mean)? Is it the spirit of the law (how do we know that)? Is it helpfulness? This ambiguity on the standard of truth causes him to lose the sense of possessing the Word of the Lord.
March 18, 2025
I listened to this book by accident because my wireless headphones clicked play. But I am glad it happened
It was a really good book for me. Have we pushed people away because of thier beliefs ? Have we clung to doctrine tighter than we have relationships? The problem with this is that we are just holding onto our interpretation of doctrine.
This book is coming against the thought that if you drink alcohol, smoke or believe that genesis 1-11 is figurative in some churches you are labelled a non believer.
However many people who deconstruct come back with a stronger faith in Jesus, but different to where they started.
He mentioned that we are diligent readers of the bible then we will always be deconstructing and reconstructing our faith. This I agree with. So we need grace to allow others to show a different expression of faith.
He pretty much wants Christian’s to encourage deconstruction opposed to people destructing their faith.
Lastly he mentioned that many people who leave the church still love Jesus, but have had something that has triggered them to leave. He encourages that person to cling to Jesus, and what he says about that topic opposed to clinging to that topic and leave Jesus.
He also mentioned when people meet and interact with us do they hear about what we believe? Or do they experience what we believe.
He also said that at his church he has a “doubters club” each week. It’s where you rock up, ask question and try and answer your doubt. He said doing this will increase people’s questions of god and his word and then help them to dig, study and find the answers. He said it is sooooo good to allow questions in public.
It was a really good book for me. Have we pushed people away because of thier beliefs ? Have we clung to doctrine tighter than we have relationships? The problem with this is that we are just holding onto our interpretation of doctrine.
This book is coming against the thought that if you drink alcohol, smoke or believe that genesis 1-11 is figurative in some churches you are labelled a non believer.
However many people who deconstruct come back with a stronger faith in Jesus, but different to where they started.
He mentioned that we are diligent readers of the bible then we will always be deconstructing and reconstructing our faith. This I agree with. So we need grace to allow others to show a different expression of faith.
He pretty much wants Christian’s to encourage deconstruction opposed to people destructing their faith.
Lastly he mentioned that many people who leave the church still love Jesus, but have had something that has triggered them to leave. He encourages that person to cling to Jesus, and what he says about that topic opposed to clinging to that topic and leave Jesus.
He also mentioned when people meet and interact with us do they hear about what we believe? Or do they experience what we believe.
He also said that at his church he has a “doubters club” each week. It’s where you rock up, ask question and try and answer your doubt. He said doing this will increase people’s questions of god and his word and then help them to dig, study and find the answers. He said it is sooooo good to allow questions in public.
September 16, 2023
I don't really know that this book was what I expected going into it, but it has a lot of points to think about regardless. Preston Ulmer recently spoke at my church and I was really encouraged by what he shared. I have a lot of respect for the places Ulmer is going and the conversations he's having and inviting others - Christians and nonChristians alike - to have. I picked up his first book, The Doubter's Club (which I will read soon), and snagged this one on NetGalley the following week.
I think this might be a good starting place for Christians who are just dipping their toes into what deconstruction means (for others or for themselves) or who need to have a healthier view of wrestling with God/western Christianity/Jesus and the exvangelical, and for those struggling to communicate in a way that both honors Christ and the individual walking through a season of deconstruction. I think it's also a challenge to take a good look at what the bedrock of our own faith really is - Jesus or religious tradition. By design, if you are an evangelical Christian, parts of this book will make you feel uncomfortable.
Ultimately, I think I was looking for something a little more but I'm still glad I picked it up and will definitely move on to The Doubter's Club soon!
I think this might be a good starting place for Christians who are just dipping their toes into what deconstruction means (for others or for themselves) or who need to have a healthier view of wrestling with God/western Christianity/Jesus and the exvangelical, and for those struggling to communicate in a way that both honors Christ and the individual walking through a season of deconstruction. I think it's also a challenge to take a good look at what the bedrock of our own faith really is - Jesus or religious tradition. By design, if you are an evangelical Christian, parts of this book will make you feel uncomfortable.
Ultimately, I think I was looking for something a little more but I'm still glad I picked it up and will definitely move on to The Doubter's Club soon!
January 15, 2024
This book was an great introduction to deconstruction/reconstruction. Ulmer provides encouragement and action steps for the doubter to take on their journey through questioning what it is they have been taught and what is the Truth.
However, there were many portions of the book that were left very vague and many points became repetitive and/or redundant. Also, based on the blurb on the back of the book, I had hoped for some more in-depth and intentional interviews. The interviews were often only briefly mentioned.
All-in-all, I appreciate Ulmer's balanced approach to deconstruction and especially his compassion and empathy towards those who are/have deconstructed as well as those who resist deconstruction. This book helped me realize places where I still have growing to do in my own walk with Christ and has given me tools to help myself and others through the deconstruction/reconstruction process.
However, there were many portions of the book that were left very vague and many points became repetitive and/or redundant. Also, based on the blurb on the back of the book, I had hoped for some more in-depth and intentional interviews. The interviews were often only briefly mentioned.
All-in-all, I appreciate Ulmer's balanced approach to deconstruction and especially his compassion and empathy towards those who are/have deconstructed as well as those who resist deconstruction. This book helped me realize places where I still have growing to do in my own walk with Christ and has given me tools to help myself and others through the deconstruction/reconstruction process.
June 9, 2023
Really appreciated this book. This is one of the better books I have read addressing deconstruction and reconstruction.
December 5, 2022
This was a book I deeply needed. I have been in a unnamed deconstruction era with my faith for many years and it's only gotten worse with the rise of the ugly side of American Christianity.
The line that most deeply affected me is "If Jesus didn't emphasize it, don't hold it tightly". Basically, our role is not to be judge and jury, not to hold others or ourselves to perfection, but to be love in action.
I'm not saying this cured my crisis of faith, but I appreciate the reframing and the calling out of the harm religion has done to many.
The line that most deeply affected me is "If Jesus didn't emphasize it, don't hold it tightly". Basically, our role is not to be judge and jury, not to hold others or ourselves to perfection, but to be love in action.
I'm not saying this cured my crisis of faith, but I appreciate the reframing and the calling out of the harm religion has done to many.
May 18, 2023
In Deconstruct Faith Discover Jesus, Preston Ulmer sets out to define, clarify, and exemplify what Christian deconstruction is, specifically in light of where we have largely seen its recent prominence: American Evangelicalism. Ulmer finds himself on the boundary of both camps (that of the skeptic who deconstructs the Christian religion and that of the American Evangelical who longs to remain a Christian). It is on this boundary that I believe he succeeds in negotiating a space where the two camps can co-exist. Not all who deconstruct are destined for de-conversion. In fact, deconstruction might just be this historic, holy, and freeing process that God has, is, and will continue to use to draw people unto himself. Unfortunately, the Church has gotten in the way of Her mission of creating disciples for the fear of losing people who proudly dawn the title “Christian” but never truly find Jesus, yet alone learn to follow and love him. An understanding of terms, patience to wait and listen to the other side, and a willingness to embrace paradoxes are all necessary as a way forward.
Ulmer articulates these realities well, and the first half of his book aims to explain why deconstruction in the Christian community occurs. He explores in some detail the recent shift in American Evangelicalism that, as an institution of sorts, has wed itself to the political and societal powers of this world rather than being faithful to Jesus and the Kingdom of Heaven. This is largely what people who are in the process of deconstruction (Christian or not) are trying to point out and personally reconcile. I can speak from my own experience, those who proudly identify with the political Right (of which American Evangelicalism is viewed as an adherent) seem more concerned with the what of Christianity that needs defended over and against the who in our community that needs loved. Ulmer does not miss that Jesus’ whole ministry seems to be in support of the latter.
The second half of the book has a focus of how to deconstruct Christianity in a healthy and helpful way. One of the biggest takeaways I have in this process is the importance of not doing it alone. Whether Christian or not, being able to articulate and share your story and experience with someone allows you to process clearer, deeper, and overall better. Within this process, Ulmer holds onto the hope of reconstruction to the point where individuals can continue to follow and love Jesus, even if it looks different that the church and Christianity we have been used to. To this end, I emphasize the need for Spirit-filled discernment, knowing that God will not abandon those who truly love Him as the Church globally.
This was one of the best books I have read in over a year. I recommend this book to all who would read it, and maybe even more to those who are immediately disinterested in reading it. While there have been recent authors who prophetically voice the ways that American Evangelicalism lost sight of the ethics of Jesus, it is continuously refreshing to hear that voice coming from inside that camp. I come away with a sense of hope for its future if only “those who have ears to hear, let them hear.”
Ulmer articulates these realities well, and the first half of his book aims to explain why deconstruction in the Christian community occurs. He explores in some detail the recent shift in American Evangelicalism that, as an institution of sorts, has wed itself to the political and societal powers of this world rather than being faithful to Jesus and the Kingdom of Heaven. This is largely what people who are in the process of deconstruction (Christian or not) are trying to point out and personally reconcile. I can speak from my own experience, those who proudly identify with the political Right (of which American Evangelicalism is viewed as an adherent) seem more concerned with the what of Christianity that needs defended over and against the who in our community that needs loved. Ulmer does not miss that Jesus’ whole ministry seems to be in support of the latter.
The second half of the book has a focus of how to deconstruct Christianity in a healthy and helpful way. One of the biggest takeaways I have in this process is the importance of not doing it alone. Whether Christian or not, being able to articulate and share your story and experience with someone allows you to process clearer, deeper, and overall better. Within this process, Ulmer holds onto the hope of reconstruction to the point where individuals can continue to follow and love Jesus, even if it looks different that the church and Christianity we have been used to. To this end, I emphasize the need for Spirit-filled discernment, knowing that God will not abandon those who truly love Him as the Church globally.
This was one of the best books I have read in over a year. I recommend this book to all who would read it, and maybe even more to those who are immediately disinterested in reading it. While there have been recent authors who prophetically voice the ways that American Evangelicalism lost sight of the ethics of Jesus, it is continuously refreshing to hear that voice coming from inside that camp. I come away with a sense of hope for its future if only “those who have ears to hear, let them hear.”
June 12, 2023
Some time ago … my cousin asked me if there was anything in my faith that if he were able to prove wrong would break my faith. I took the question seriously and from that point I had a strong understanding of my own core faith. That doesn’t mean that I did not accept traditions outside of that core (of which most christian traditions reside), but that I was open to another way. That was the start of my journey to deconstruct my faith … after which I found myself in the Catholic Church after I reconstructed it. That is a long winded way to say that I can identify with what the author is saying here to some extent … I don’t agree with everything he says and would frequently say it differently (not surprising since he confesses a pentecostal viewpoint); however, he does make an excellent point.
The book is a quick read and mostly on point with minimal repetition. Part one deals with what deconstruction is and why it is good for the faith. This is important because the term deconstruction is not a common term in my faith tradition (restoration or catholic); although it is apparently more common in evangelical traditions where diversity within the pews is not well tolerated. That is not to say that people in other traditions doesn’t experience a crisis in faith … studies show that all the mainline churches are declining the in the US, but that we are using different vocabulary to talk about the same thing. Part One makes sure we are all on the same page. Part two introducing a way to use deconstruction constructively :-) this is also important. When you “blow up” your faith, something needs to fill the gap; here is a healthy approach to do that where the end result is a spirituality that is stronger and better that what you had before. Too many times I have seen people just give up entirely and walk away completely.
Introduction: Saving Deconstruction
Part One: Why Deconstruct
1. Deconstruction Is Part of Our Spiritual Heritage
2. More Questions Than Answers
3. Deconstruction vs Deconversion
4. Deconstruction Is About Authority
5. WWJD? (What Would Jesus Deconstruction?)
Part Two: How to Deconstruct - The FUSE Method
6. F - Find the Specifics
7. U - Understand Where It Came From
8. S - Share the Impact
9. E - Engage with the Remains
Conclusion: A Christianity for Our Kids
I was given this free advance reader copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#DeconstructFaithDiscoverJesus #NetGalley
The book is a quick read and mostly on point with minimal repetition. Part one deals with what deconstruction is and why it is good for the faith. This is important because the term deconstruction is not a common term in my faith tradition (restoration or catholic); although it is apparently more common in evangelical traditions where diversity within the pews is not well tolerated. That is not to say that people in other traditions doesn’t experience a crisis in faith … studies show that all the mainline churches are declining the in the US, but that we are using different vocabulary to talk about the same thing. Part One makes sure we are all on the same page. Part two introducing a way to use deconstruction constructively :-) this is also important. When you “blow up” your faith, something needs to fill the gap; here is a healthy approach to do that where the end result is a spirituality that is stronger and better that what you had before. Too many times I have seen people just give up entirely and walk away completely.
Introduction: Saving Deconstruction
Part One: Why Deconstruct
1. Deconstruction Is Part of Our Spiritual Heritage
2. More Questions Than Answers
3. Deconstruction vs Deconversion
4. Deconstruction Is About Authority
5. WWJD? (What Would Jesus Deconstruction?)
Part Two: How to Deconstruct - The FUSE Method
6. F - Find the Specifics
7. U - Understand Where It Came From
8. S - Share the Impact
9. E - Engage with the Remains
Conclusion: A Christianity for Our Kids
I was given this free advance reader copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#DeconstructFaithDiscoverJesus #NetGalley
June 15, 2023
Journey of Deconstruction and Rediscovery
Preston Ulmer's book, "Deconstruct Faith. Discover Jesus," offers a refreshing perspective on the often misunderstood concept of deconstruction within the realm of faith. Ulmer's main thesis revolves around the idea that deconstruction can lead to a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Jesus, ultimately fostering richer connections with others.
One of the book's strengths lies in Ulmer's adept use of personal stories, biblical narratives, and historical anecdotes, such as the compelling tale of Martin Luther. Through these narratives, Ulmer effectively supports his claims and encourages readers to not get “hung up on disagreements” focusing instead on the one who was "hung up for us."
Ulmer's practical explanations on the need to deconstruct religion are compelling. He highlights how, over time, we have constructed systems and traditions around Jesus that no longer resemble His essence of love, compassion, and authenticity. Despite the negative connotations associated with the term "deconstruction," Ulmer emphasizes that it is an essential part of every follower's journey towards a deeper relationship with Jesus.
The writing style employed by Ulmer creates an engaging and relatable reading experience. It feels as though you are having a genuine conversation with the author, which further enhances the book's impact. Whether you have personally experienced the process of deconstruction or find the concept unsettling, Ulmer's book is perfect for those who have left the faith and those who may be apprehensive or even angered by the idea of deconstruction.
"Deconstruct Faith. Discover Jesus" is highly recommended for all followers of Jesus, as it prompts readers to approach the book with an open heart and a willingness to engage with the challenging aspects of faith. It serves as a timely reminder that we are surrounded by individuals who are leaving the faith due to our reluctance to engage in difficult conversations.
Preston Ulmer's book is a thought-provoking exploration of deconstruction, offering valuable insights and guidance for those seeking a deeper connection with Jesus. "Deconstruct Faith. Discover Jesus" invites readers to embrace the process of deconstruction with the hope of rediscovering the true essence of Jesus' teachings and fostering more meaningful relationships with both Him and others.
Preston Ulmer's book, "Deconstruct Faith. Discover Jesus," offers a refreshing perspective on the often misunderstood concept of deconstruction within the realm of faith. Ulmer's main thesis revolves around the idea that deconstruction can lead to a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Jesus, ultimately fostering richer connections with others.
One of the book's strengths lies in Ulmer's adept use of personal stories, biblical narratives, and historical anecdotes, such as the compelling tale of Martin Luther. Through these narratives, Ulmer effectively supports his claims and encourages readers to not get “hung up on disagreements” focusing instead on the one who was "hung up for us."
Ulmer's practical explanations on the need to deconstruct religion are compelling. He highlights how, over time, we have constructed systems and traditions around Jesus that no longer resemble His essence of love, compassion, and authenticity. Despite the negative connotations associated with the term "deconstruction," Ulmer emphasizes that it is an essential part of every follower's journey towards a deeper relationship with Jesus.
The writing style employed by Ulmer creates an engaging and relatable reading experience. It feels as though you are having a genuine conversation with the author, which further enhances the book's impact. Whether you have personally experienced the process of deconstruction or find the concept unsettling, Ulmer's book is perfect for those who have left the faith and those who may be apprehensive or even angered by the idea of deconstruction.
"Deconstruct Faith. Discover Jesus" is highly recommended for all followers of Jesus, as it prompts readers to approach the book with an open heart and a willingness to engage with the challenging aspects of faith. It serves as a timely reminder that we are surrounded by individuals who are leaving the faith due to our reluctance to engage in difficult conversations.
Preston Ulmer's book is a thought-provoking exploration of deconstruction, offering valuable insights and guidance for those seeking a deeper connection with Jesus. "Deconstruct Faith. Discover Jesus" invites readers to embrace the process of deconstruction with the hope of rediscovering the true essence of Jesus' teachings and fostering more meaningful relationships with both Him and others.
January 25, 2023
3.5 stars: Thanks NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I think the same way about this book that I do about The Great Sex Rescue by Sheila Wray Gregore or even possibly God and the Gay Christian by Matthew Vines in that it has the propensity to be earth-shattering for the open-minded American Evangelical who’s ready to /listen/ and be told “hey, maybe you don’t have it all figured out”.
But it’s not for everyone and I can see it being used to continue to hurt people by their own biases in the book’s message (that I happen to agree with, but I also know what kind of Christians live around me in the Bible Belt). I think the “hold onto Jesus at all costs” mentality and that reconstruction must follow deconstruction—even though I agree and have felt this way about my own processing—is not going to come across as loving to those who have already gone through deconstructing certain problematic aspects of their churches and childhood traumas and aren’t ready to touch any aspect of the Church again yet. Yah Jesus is usually the starting place, but don’t force Him onto them. I’d recommend this book to certain people I went to Bible college with who are in ministry and have humble hearts, but NOT friends or acquaintances who A). Who are past the line of equating the Bible with G-d and pay lip service to being open to being wrong but really would never concede on any doubt or belief or B). Have been abused by the church and have been on a deconstruction process for a while.
This HAS to be mentioned: The overall metaphor of Tunkasila Sakpe Paha (the six grandfathers mountain range, made by Creator, destroyed to make mt Rushmore) that pervades the book, glosses over just how problematic that colonizing action was (and still is as it’s making bank and how it’s taught in schools). There was a pithy platitude from the author but because the way to make mt Rushmore was the entire metaphor for deconstruction (e.g. lighting the FUSE being the acronym and the WHOLE mountain metaphor for problematic church), I have to deduct 1.5 stars. I wish he could come up with some other way to use FUSE and not compare it to destroying sacred creation or make creation the metaphor for the problem!!!!!!!!
I think the same way about this book that I do about The Great Sex Rescue by Sheila Wray Gregore or even possibly God and the Gay Christian by Matthew Vines in that it has the propensity to be earth-shattering for the open-minded American Evangelical who’s ready to /listen/ and be told “hey, maybe you don’t have it all figured out”.
But it’s not for everyone and I can see it being used to continue to hurt people by their own biases in the book’s message (that I happen to agree with, but I also know what kind of Christians live around me in the Bible Belt). I think the “hold onto Jesus at all costs” mentality and that reconstruction must follow deconstruction—even though I agree and have felt this way about my own processing—is not going to come across as loving to those who have already gone through deconstructing certain problematic aspects of their churches and childhood traumas and aren’t ready to touch any aspect of the Church again yet. Yah Jesus is usually the starting place, but don’t force Him onto them. I’d recommend this book to certain people I went to Bible college with who are in ministry and have humble hearts, but NOT friends or acquaintances who A). Who are past the line of equating the Bible with G-d and pay lip service to being open to being wrong but really would never concede on any doubt or belief or B). Have been abused by the church and have been on a deconstruction process for a while.
This HAS to be mentioned: The overall metaphor of Tunkasila Sakpe Paha (the six grandfathers mountain range, made by Creator, destroyed to make mt Rushmore) that pervades the book, glosses over just how problematic that colonizing action was (and still is as it’s making bank and how it’s taught in schools). There was a pithy platitude from the author but because the way to make mt Rushmore was the entire metaphor for deconstruction (e.g. lighting the FUSE being the acronym and the WHOLE mountain metaphor for problematic church), I have to deduct 1.5 stars. I wish he could come up with some other way to use FUSE and not compare it to destroying sacred creation or make creation the metaphor for the problem!!!!!!!!
June 7, 2023
3.5 - I don't really know that this book was what I expected going into it, but it has a lot of points to think about regardless. Preston Ulmer recently spoke at my church and I was really encouraged by what he shared. I have a lot of respect for the places Ulmer is going and the conversations he's having and inviting others - Christians and nonChristians alike - to have. I picked up his first book, The Doubter's Club (which I will read soon), and snagged this one on NetGalley the following week.
I think this might be a good starting place for Christians who are just dipping their toes into what deconstruction means (for others or for themselves), who need to have a healthier view of wrestling with God/western Christianity/Jesus and the exvangelical, and for those struggling to communicate in a way that honors Christ with those walking through a season of deconstruction. I think it's also a challenge to take a good look at what the bedrock of our own faith really is - Jesus or religious tradition. By design, if you are an evangelical Christian, parts of this book will make you feel uncomfortable.
Ultimately, I think I was looking for something a little more (and maybe a little less in some areas) but I'm grateful to have read this book and will definitely move on to The Doubter's Club soon!
I think this might be a good starting place for Christians who are just dipping their toes into what deconstruction means (for others or for themselves), who need to have a healthier view of wrestling with God/western Christianity/Jesus and the exvangelical, and for those struggling to communicate in a way that honors Christ with those walking through a season of deconstruction. I think it's also a challenge to take a good look at what the bedrock of our own faith really is - Jesus or religious tradition. By design, if you are an evangelical Christian, parts of this book will make you feel uncomfortable.
Ultimately, I think I was looking for something a little more (and maybe a little less in some areas) but I'm grateful to have read this book and will definitely move on to The Doubter's Club soon!
January 4, 2024
This book took me a long time to finish. It’s like the shame of deconstructing as a pastors kid, former staff at a church, and believer was nagging every time I looked at this book. I was scared to read it in certain places because of the looks I would get reading a book with the word “deconstruct” in the title. This book made me think and toil with all of the shoulds and should nots I grew up being taught and I guess at some point adopting to my own belief system. It’s a refreshing reframe of what it means to be a Christ follower. If our lives don’t point towards Jesus in all that we think, say, and do; we are doing it wrong. I have so many people who call themselves Christians who I want to read this book, but are so set in their ways that they may never. This book encouraged me to just keep loving them like Jesus would and for that I am grateful. Thank you, Preston for being vulnerable to write and publish this work.
April 24, 2023
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy to review. This is my first book of Preston Ulmer's that I have read- the topic and title of this book is what initially drew me in. Ulmer presents the idea of deconstruction as old faith itself-as something that is found in the bible as well as a practice that wasn't shied away from. Ulmer lays out a way to deconstruct which doesn't necessarily have the end result that one is now faithless. I understand his point but take issue with this as this may be the logical decision for someone even if he ultimately disagrees or is saddened by it. I also take issue with how the word skeptic/skepticism is use-as almost an insult. Despite these two things I believe he is sincere when he shares his own journey as well as acknowledging the real harm Christianity/religion has caused.
May 8, 2024
This book was thought-provoking and speaks well to the reality that Christianity is facing right now. I love that the subject matter is so close and personal to the author, and the heart behind the words helped to give a sense of compassion and urgency for acting on the guidance in this book. I slightly wish this book gave us a bit more thoughts on reconstructing faith-- I know the author explicitly mentioned that he wanted to give space for deconstruction specifically, but without as much concrete discourse on reconstruction, I was left feeling a bit hopeless about the whole process.
August 28, 2024
Thoughtful and filled with care
So much of my faith journey has been filled with the need to ignore the mystery of God because to consider it was to shake my faith! Finally, Preston has put in words a beautiful way for me to engage my questions and curiosity without feeling like a heretic or the most immature Christian in the room. I love Jesus and this book was really good for me. I’m confident it could be wonderful for others as well.
So much of my faith journey has been filled with the need to ignore the mystery of God because to consider it was to shake my faith! Finally, Preston has put in words a beautiful way for me to engage my questions and curiosity without feeling like a heretic or the most immature Christian in the room. I love Jesus and this book was really good for me. I’m confident it could be wonderful for others as well.
July 11, 2023
LOVE this book! Preston has a way of making you think, feel, cry tears of sadness and joy all at the same time.
Confident the world would look better if more people deconstructed their faith.
Definitely a must read for all!
Confident the world would look better if more people deconstructed their faith.
Definitely a must read for all!
February 26, 2023
I recieved this from netgalley
Unfortunately I lost interest in this book half way through as it is not a Catholic book
Unfortunately I lost interest in this book half way through as it is not a Catholic book
May 20, 2023
This book isn’t for everyone. But those it’s for need to read it. And it’s probably for those who don’t think they need to read it.
June 28, 2023
Great start, but lots of meat left on the bone.
February 18, 2025
Lots of good perspective in this book!
March 21, 2024
This was a really interesting book on deconstructing/reconstructing and avoiding deconversion.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews