Christ-Centered Reformation/Deconstruction

An article on Christianity Today stated, “To call something to reform (as opposed to simply destroying it) is to implicitly recognize the integrity of its original design.”^[1] I would, however, note that deconstruction is not (even remotely) synonymous with destruction.

Because of its various understandings, the term deconstruction has become somewhat of a trigger word. Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines deconstruction as, “a philosophical or critical method which asserts that meanings, metaphysical constructs, and hierarchical oppositions (as between key terms in a philosophical or literary work) are always rendered unstable by their dependence on ultimately arbitrary signifiers”.^[2] The meanings of words change with time, and people may have various interpretations of the same word. An example of this can be seen in Luke 2:46, in which Luke 2:46 (KJV) chooses “doctors” whereas modern translations use “teachers”. However, the KJV didn’t mistranslate. Historically, a “doctor” could more commonly mean a teacher of doctrine, but that is no longer a familiar use. In a similar way, respected traditions and values develop with each passing generation, but old ones often become cumbersome with time.

I will clarify these terms so that we are all on the same page. The term deconstruction is most aptly used for the process of re-aligning one’s heart with God via a careful examination of the Bible and the original writers’ intent. The term “reformation” refers to the process of discarding past doctrines and practices that have proven harmful to the church and an obstacle to the expansion of God’s kingdom. Regardless of the approach being used, we must reach the cornerstone (Jesus) and then construct a framework (theological view) based on that foundation. The goal of both deconstruction and reformation is to bring the church back in line with the original gospel.

Let’s look at the act of worship as an example. The reformation of worship may consider removing the distracting aspects, such as flashing drums and glamorous vocalists, in favor of a more stripped-down, intimate worship. Deconstruction digs deeper, it questions what God was asking of us in worship, and it allows us to rebuild a framework that worships God through meditation, worship songs, testimonies of His goodness, etc., without being dogmatic to the framework itself but to the foundation upon which it stands. This is only to illustrate the terms. I don’t intend for this example to be taken as any kind of theological stance on how people should worship.

For the rest of the article, I will use the word deconstruction, but reformation is also valid.

The State of the Church

The United States has been experiencing a continuous decline in church membership over the past several decades. According to the most recent FACT (Faith Communities Today) survey, there was a 7% decline in church attendance on average between 2015 and 2020; in fact, over the past five years, only non-Christian congregations—Muslim, Baha’i, and Jewish—have seen an increase in attendance.^[3]

One of the contributing factors to the decline in church membership is the overall decrease in religious affiliation among Americans. Studies by PRRI have shown a rise in the number of people who identify as religiously unaffiliated, often referred to as “nones”.^[4] This trend has significant implications for Christianity as it challenges traditional notions of religious identity and highlights the need for introspection and adaptation within the church.

These people may still have spiritual beliefs but have become disillusioned with organized religion. Others may find it difficult to align themselves with a specific denomination or traditional Christian practices. The reasons for this shift are complex and multifaceted, including changes in cultural values, increased secularization, and skepticism toward the organized church.

Another factor contributing to the decline is generational differences. Younger generations, such as Millennials and Generation Z, attend church less frequently when compared to past generations. Only 23% of people aged 18 to 29 identified as having no religious affiliation in 2006; however, by 2016, that proportion had risen to 38%.^[5] Younger generations are more often seeking spirituality and connection outside of traditional church structures, emphasizing personal experiences, social justice, and community involvement over institutional affiliation. A Church Leaders post discussed how young people have seen and experienced too much hypocrisy to keep up appearances, and many find the church intellectually unengaging since they are discouraged from questioning theological frameworks and expressing their own beliefs.^[6]

Additionally, the decline in church attendance can be attributed to a loss of trust in religious institutions due to various scandals and controversies. Instances of ministry abuse, financial misconduct, and moral failings have eroded public confidence in organized religion, making people hesitant to commit to an organized church.

Our Predicament

This situation presents both challenges and opportunities for Christians. On the one hand, it encourages churches to examine their practices, doctrines, and how they engage with the broader society. It calls for a more inclusive and authentic expression of faith that addresses the concerns and needs of some of those who identify as “nones.” Church communities may need to focus on fostering welcoming and non-judgmental environments, focusing on social justice issues, engaging in meaningful dialog, and reimagining their worship and outreach efforts to resonate with a diverse and growing community.

On the other hand, the rise of the “nones” also encourages Christians to reflect on their own faith journey and engage in self-examination and potential deconstruction. It challenges us to articulate our beliefs, values, and the reasons for our commitment to the Christian faith. It calls for a renewed emphasis on personal relationships with God, authentic community, and aligning our everyday life to God’s kingdom. We can respond to the rise of the “nones” by embodying the teachings and character of Christ, demonstrating love, compassion, and grace in our interactions with others, regardless of their religious affiliation.

By taking a closer look, we can see how important evaluating our beliefs is, not only for our own faith, but for Christianity as a whole. The changing religious landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for church communities to redefine their role and relevance in contemporary society. This is not about watering down the gospel to attract a broader audience; rather, it is about presenting a timeless truth that is life-giving, relevant, and helps people engage in bringing the kingdom of God to their communities.

Why Reform/Deconstruct?

Deconstruction holds significant importance for the church as it allows for growth, authenticity, and a more vibrant faith community. The process of deconstruction challenges long-held beliefs, traditions, and practices, thereby inviting people and the overall body of Christ to examine and reevaluate our understanding of God, scripture, and the Christian faith.

First, deconstruction encourages intellectual and spiritual growth. It invites us to question inherited beliefs and engage in critical thinking about our faith. By grappling with tough questions and exploring different perspectives, the church community can deepen its understanding of God and the complexities of the human experience. Deconstruction helps to refine and strengthen our beliefs, enabling us to articulate a more coherent and thoughtful theology.

Second, deconstruction fosters authenticity. Many people within the church have experienced a sense of disconnect between their inner doubts, questions, and struggles, and the expected conformity to a rigid set of beliefs. Deconstruction allows people to explore and embrace their doubts and uncertainties openly, creating space for vulnerability, honesty, and genuine dialog. By acknowledging and addressing the complexities of faith, the church can create an environment where people feel seen, heard, and accepted for who they truly are.

Furthermore, deconstruction can lead to a more inclusive and compassionate church community. As traditional beliefs and practices are deconstructed, people and the church as a whole become more aware of their biases, marginalization, and injustices. Deconstruction prompts us to examine how our interpretations of scripture and religious teachings may have contributed to marginalization or discrimination. It challenges us to engage in conversations around social justice, equity, and the inclusion of marginalized groups. Through deconstruction, the church can develop into a more inclusive, loving, and justice-oriented community, reflecting the heart of Christ.

In essence, deconstruction is important for the church because it allows for growth, authenticity, and transformation. It encourages intellectual and spiritual development, fosters a community of authenticity and vulnerability, and promotes inclusivity and social justice. While deconstruction may be uncomfortable and unsettling at times, it can ultimately lead to a stronger, more compassionate, and relevant expression of faith in the world.

What are the Risks of Deconstruction?

While deconstructing our Christian beliefs can be a valuable and transformative process, it is important to acknowledge that there are potential challenges that may arise during this journey.

One of the main negatives is the potential for feelings of uncertainty and doubt. Deconstruction involves questioning and reevaluating deeply held beliefs and theological frameworks. This process can lead to a sense of disorientation and can challenge our sense of identity and security. It is not uncommon for us to experience a period of confusion or existential crisis as we grapple with the dismantling of our previously held beliefs. This can be emotionally and intellectually taxing, leaving us in a state of limbo until we are able to rebuild a new theological framework.

Another negative aspect of deconstructing our Christian beliefs is the potential for relational strain. Often, religious beliefs are intertwined with personal relationships, particularly within tight-knit church communities. When we deconstruct our faith and question previously held beliefs, it can create tension within these relationships. Friends, family members, or fellow church members may respond with fear, judgment, or a sense of betrayal. This can lead to feelings of isolation, rejection, or a loss of community, which can be profoundly challenging and painful. My search for a God that is defined by love, who calls us to help bring about His Kingdom, and who wants us to live lives that are practically aligned with his mission, has put a strain on my relationships with my family. However, it has also restored other relationships and allowed me to share the gospel with unlikely people.

Additionally, deconstructing our beliefs can leave us without a clear moral or ethical framework. Traditional religious teachings often provide a set of guidelines and values that shape our worldview and decision-making process. When these beliefs are deconstructed, we may struggle to establish a new framework for our moral compass. This can lead to feelings of moral relativism or a sense of moral disorientation, as we seek to navigate our values and principles in a world that may seem morally complex and uncertain.

It is important to note that these negatives are not inherent to the process of deconstruction itself, but rather potential challenges that we may encounter along the way. Deconstructing our Christian beliefs requires careful reflection, self-care, and support. Seeking guidance from mentors, counselors, or trusted spiritual friends can be helpful in navigating these challenges and finding a sense of stability and meaning amid deconstruction.

Christ-Centered Deconstruction

Christ-centered deconstruction is an approach to the process of deconstruction that emphasizes the love and character of Christ as the guiding principle and foundation. Deconstruction, in this context, refers to the questioning and reevaluation of one’s beliefs, traditions, and religious practices in order to uncover the truth and a more authentic understanding of faith. It is a journey that can be unsettling and even disorienting, as familiar structures and beliefs are dismantled.

In the midst of deconstruction, it is common to feel like one is falling, as the false foundations upon which our faith may have been built are stripped away. It can be a time of doubt, uncertainty, and even fear. However, the concept of Christ-centered deconstruction reminds us that just as we repel down a cliff, we must remain attached to a lifeline for safety and stability. In this case, our lifeline is being anchored in Christ.

Being Christ-centered means that throughout the process of deconstruction, we keep our focus on the love and character of Jesus Christ. His teachings, His compassion, and His sacrificial love become the plumbline by which we measure our beliefs and understanding. As we deconstruct, we continuously refer to the life and teachings of Christ to discern what is true, what aligns with His character, and what leads us closer to Him.

By remaining anchored in Christ, we ensure that our deconstruction is not aimless or destructive. Instead, it becomes a transformative journey toward a deeper relationship with God and a more authentic expression of faith. The love and character of Christ provide us with a solid foundation upon which we can rebuild a framework and reshape our beliefs. We can trust that as we navigate the uncertain terrain of deconstruction, we are held securely by the unchanging love of Jesus Christ.

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^[1] Tish Harrison Warren, “The Church Needs Reformation, Not Deconstruction,” ChristianityToday.Com, October 19, 2021, https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/november/exvangelical-warren-guide-to-deconstruction-church.html.

^[2] Inc Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary. (Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster, Inc., 2003).

^[3] Yonat Shimron, “Study: Attendance Hemorrhaging at Small and Midsize US Congregations,” Religion News Service, October 14, 2021, https://religionnews.com/2021/10/14/study-attendance-at-small-and-midsize-us-congregations-is-hemorrhaging/.

^[4] PRRI, “The American Religious Landscape in 2020,” July 8, 2021, https://www.prri.org/research/2020-census-of-american-religion/.

^[5] PRRI, “The American Religious Landscape in 2020,” July 8, 2021, https://www.prri.org/research/2020-census-of-american-religion/.

^[6] Marc Yoder, “Why Youth Leave the Church: 10 Surprising Reasons Teens Disappear,” Church Leaders, May 22, 2023, https://churchleaders.com/youth/166129-marc-solas-10-surprising-reasons-our-kids-leave-church.html/4.