As a society, there are simply some things we are no longer free to debate in the public square. More people hide their opinions on more issues more often than in the recent past.

How then can we have the kinds of conversations we need to have as human creatures who need to learn to live in this world together? And for those of us who are Christians, how can we have conversations with others beyond mundane observations about the weather?

This is important for us, as it is often our more substantial conversations that deepen our relationships with each other and enable us to grow spiritually.

Conversations of Substance

Below are summaries and links to the 4 parts of the series.

Part 1: Why has it all become so difficult?

This article explores some of the reasons it has become more difficult to have substantial conversations, particularly when we disagree with each other. Here we examine briefly how the speed at which we’re bombarded with information, and the high value our society places on emotional safety, have brought this about.

Read the full article here.

Part 2: How Jesus Governs Our Conversations

As Christians, everything – even our conversations – fall under the rule of our Lord Jesus Christ. We seek to understand ourselves, our neighbours and even truth through the lens he gives us in Scripture.

Read the full article here.

Part 3: Learning to Listen

Listening is a skill that can be learned to powerfully transform human relationships. Christians are able to infuse our listening with humility and a desire to love which can enable us to model the gospel when we are confronted by strong disagreement.

Read the full article here.

Part 4: Faith in the Face of Fury

We might be facing a future where we receive angry responses for our faith, but this does not mean we can’t respond wisely. Responding wisely will require us thinking about ourselves, anger and how it functions and what strategy we might want to adopt for this possible future.

Read the full article here.