Introduction
In recent years, many people have found themselves disillusioned with organized religion, leading them into a season of deconstruction—a process of questioning, dismantling, and sometimes abandoning the faith structures they once embraced. French-Algerian philosopher Jacques Derrida (1930–2004) defined "deconstruction" as the critical examination and dismantling of established beliefs, structures, and systems. While deconstruction has its merits in challenging stagnant paradigms and encouraging critical thinking, there is a need for a complementary approach that focuses on reconstruction rather than solely on deconstruction. In this article, we explore the imperative of reconstructing one's faith amidst the currents of deconstruction, drawing insights from the Christian tradition.
American minister and therapist Mark Gregory Karris (b. 1975) explores this journey of deconstruction in Religious Refugees: (De)Constructing Toward Spiritual and Emotional Healing (Quoir, 2020). He captures the pain, struggle, and sense of exile experienced by those who have walked away from traditional faith communities. Yet, while necessary for some, deconstruction is not the final destination. Many who leave religion eventually long for a renewed spiritual home—not a return to the rigid systems they left behind, but a reconstruction of a more authentic, rooted, and life-giving faith.
This article is a response to Karris' book, offering a hopeful pathway forward for those who seek to rebuild rather than remain in perpetual displacement. It acknowledges the validity of deconstruction while emphasizing that faith can be restored meaningfully. Reconstruction is not about blind adherence to old doctrines but about rediscovering the core truths that sustain belief, reframing them through a lens of wisdom, experience, and a deeper understanding of God. For those weary of wandering yet hesitant to return, this book extends an invitation—to move from exile to home, fragmentation to wholeness, and deconstruction to a reconstructed faith that truly endures.
Stations of Deconstruction
In Chapter 2, Karris lists these eight stations of the deconstruction/reconstruction journey:
Feeling at Home: This initial stage represents a sense of belonging and comfort within one's religious community. It encompasses feelings of familiarity, security, and identity associated with belonging to a religious group.
Splinterhood: As individuals begin to question or challenge aspects of their faith or experience conflicts within their religious community, they may enter the stage of "splinterhood." This phase involves fracturing beliefs or relationships within the spiritual framework, leading to fragmentation and discord.
"To Be or Not to Be": This stage reflects the pivotal moment of decision-making and introspection. Individuals grapple with whether to remain within their religious community or embark on a journey of departure and self-discovery. It involves profound existential questioning and soul-searching.
Returning Home Different: This stage begins a transformative journey for those who leave their religious affiliations. It entails returning to familiar environments or memories with a newfound perspective or identity, symbolizing the shift in worldview and self-awareness.
Disorientation: Leaving behind the structures and beliefs of one's religious community can lead to a profound sense of disorientation and loss. This stage involves navigating uncertainty, confusion, and being adrift as individuals redefine their sense of purpose and meaning.
Angstville: As individuals confront the existential challenges and emotional turmoil inherent in their journey of religious disengagement, they may find themselves in a state of profound angst or anxiety. This stage involves existential questions, doubts, and fears about the future.
Farewell and Goodbye: In this stage, individuals bid farewell to their former religious identities and communities, acknowledging the significance of the chapter they are closing. They let go, mourn losses, and find closure as they prepare to move forward.
Extreme Makeover—Home Edition: The final stage represents a profound transformation and reclamation of self. It involves rebuilding one's sense of identity, values, and purpose outside the confines of religious affiliation. Like a home undergoing a radical makeover, individuals emerge from this stage with a renewed sense of authenticity, agency, and resilience.
These stages collectively represent the complex emotional, psychological, and existential terrain traversed by religious refugees as they navigate the disengagement, healing, and self-reconstruction process. Through this framework, Karris provides insight into the challenges and opportunities inherent in such journeys, offering guidance and validation to those undergoing similar transitions.
Reconstruction of Faith
Amidst the currents of deconstruction, a pressing need arises for reconstructing one's faith. Reconstruction involves dismantling existing beliefs and actively renewing and revitalizing theological frameworks. It necessitates a reevaluation of Scripture, tradition, and community within the context of contemporary challenges and insights. The recent trend of deconstruction among "eXvangelicals" (i.e., ex-Evangelicals) often represents a rebranding of theological liberalism that has manifested in various forms throughout history—the "social gospel," "neo-orthodoxy," and the "emerging/emergent church." While deconstruction may lead to critical reflection, it must be accompanied by a constructive vision that affirms the core tenets of the Christian faith. Amid the pervasive deconstruction trend, the imperative of reconstructing faith emerges as a vital counterbalance. While deconstruction rightfully challenges entrenched beliefs and structures, reconstruction offers a pathway toward renewal, revitalization, and rediscovery within the Christian tradition. Faith reconstruction involves more than mere intellectual reevaluation; it encompasses a holistic journey of spiritual growth, communal engagement, and ethical reflection. It calls us to delve deeply into the wellsprings of our tradition, drawing from the wisdom of Scripture, the insights of theological inquiry, and the lived experiences of believers across time and space. The three ecumenical councils of Nicaea in 325, Constantinople in 381, Chalcedon in 451, and the early church fathers are good places to start.
Moreover, reconstruction invites us to embrace the dynamic nature of faith, recognizing that it is a living and evolving reality that continually adapts to our world's changing contexts and challenges. It beckons us to cultivate a robust yet adaptable faith rooted in the gospel's timeless truths while responsive to the pressing concerns of our age. In reconstruction, we are called to embody the core values of our faith—love, justice, compassion, and humility—in tangible ways that bear witness to the transformative power of God's grace. It challenges us to confront the injustices and inequalities that afflict our world, advocate for the marginalized and oppressed, and strive for the common good. However, that does not mean the ends justify the means, like how our secular world teaches us. Ultimately, the reconstruction of faith is an ongoing journey—a pilgrimage of the soul that unfolds over a lifetime. It is a journey of doubt, uncertainty, hope, and possibility. As we embark on this journey together, let us do so with courage and conviction, trusting in the guiding presence of the Holy Spirit, who leads us into all truth (see "Fruit & Gifts of the Spirit").
Stations of Reconstruction
In contrast to the "Stations of the D/R Journey," here are eight stations of reconstructing faith:
Feeling at Home: This stage represents a sense of belonging and comfort within one's faith community, corresponding with the same station in the deconstruction journey. However, in the context of reconstruction, it reflects a renewed sense of connection and resonance with one's faith tradition or spiritual path. Individuals may rediscover the beauty and depth of their religious or spiritual heritage, finding solace and support within the community.
Discernment: Discernment plays a crucial role in reconstructing faith. This stage involves deliberate reflection, exploration, and prayerful consideration as individuals discern the contours of their evolving faith. They may engage in theological study, spiritual practices, and conversations with mentors or spiritual guides to determine the values, beliefs, and practices that resonate most intimately with their spiritual journey.
"To Be": This stage mirrors the critical decision-making moment in the deconstruction journey but emphasizes the affirmative act of embracing one's faith or spiritual path. It involves a commitment to live authentically and intentionally within one's reconstructed faith, embracing the values, practices, and community that support spiritual growth and flourishing.
Returning Home: In contrast to the "Returning Home Different" stage in the deconstruction journey, this stage signifies a return to one's faith tradition or spiritual roots with renewed vigor and purpose. Individuals may rediscover the richness and depth of their spiritual heritage, finding inspiration and guidance in their faith tradition's teachings, rituals, and community. Consider Jesus leaving the ninety-nine sheep to pursue the lost one (Matt. 18:12–13; Luke 15:4, 7) or his parable about the lost son (Luke 15:11–32).
Orientation: As individuals reconstruct their faith, they may experience a period of reorientation and integration. This stage involves aligning one's beliefs, values, and practices with the insights gained through discernment and reflection. It entails finding a sense of coherence and direction within one's spiritual journey and navigating the complexities of faith with clarity and conviction.
Joyville: This stage celebrates the transformative power of reconstruction. Individuals may experience profound joy, gratitude, and fulfillment as they embrace their reconstructed faith and embody its values daily. Joyville symbolizes the deep sense of contentment and happiness that comes from living in alignment with the truth.
Hello and Welcome Back: In this stage, individuals warmly welcome themselves back as they embrace their reconstructed faith with open arms. It involves self-compassion, acceptance, and forgiveness for the doubts, struggles, and uncertainties endured throughout the reconstruction journey. These people may find healing and wholeness as they embrace their authentic selves and renewed faith.
Extreme Makeover—Baptized and Reborn: Similar to the final stage in the deconstruction journey, this stage represents a profound transformation and renewal of faith. However, in the context of reconstruction, it emphasizes the sacramental aspect of rebirth and renewal within one's faith tradition. Individuals may undergo baptism and spiritual rebirth, symbolizing their commitment to living out their reconstructed faith with authenticity and dedication (see "Baptism: Immersed in Christ").
These stations collectively illustrate the dynamic process of reconstructing faith, encompassing moments of rediscovery, discernment, commitment, and celebration. In navigating this journey, individuals embark on spiritual growth, transformation, and renewal, finding depth, meaning, and purpose in their reconstructed faith.
Deconstruction & Discernment
The apostle Paul wrote, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will" (Rom. 12:2). May the reconstruction of faith lead us ever closer to the heart of God and the fulfillment of his kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
In Christian doctrine and theology, discernment and deconstruction represent two distinct approaches to understanding and engaging with beliefs and teachings.
Discernment: Discernment refers to the process of carefully evaluating and distinguishing truth from error, particularly within the framework of Christian faith. It involves seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, prayer, reading Scripture, and consulting trusted mentors or theologians to understand and apply biblical principles to various situations. Discernment emphasizes wisdom and spiritual insight in interpreting and discerning God's will and truth.
Deconstruction: Deconstruction, on the other hand, has gained popularity in recent years within theological circles, particularly in progressive or postmodern contexts. It involves critically examining and dismantling traditional beliefs, doctrines, and theological frameworks to uncover underlying assumptions, power dynamics, and cultural influences. Deconstruction challenges established interpretations and seeks to find alternative perspectives or truths that may have been marginalized or overlooked. It often involves questioning and reevaluating previously held convictions in light of new insights or experiences.
Paul admonished us, "Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil" (1 Thess. 5:20–22). This verse underscores the importance of discernment within Christian practice. Believers are encouraged to test everything, which implies a critical examination of teachings, beliefs, and practices against the standard of truth in Scripture. However, it also emphasizes the importance of holding fast to what is good, indicating that not everything needs to be discarded in the discernment process. Instead, discernment involves sifting through various ideas and teachings to identify and embrace that which aligns with God's truth and goodness. This verse provides a basis for the practice of discernment within Christian theology and doctrine. Oftentimes, "eXvangelicals" conflate deconstruction with discernment while scorning for the historical deposit of faith.
Conclusion
Reconstructing faith is a powerful way to respond to doubt and questions. Instead of just breaking down beliefs, we can rebuild them in a way that makes sense and lasts. Learning from early church traditions and Christian history helps us think deeply about God while holding on to the lasting truths of our faith. A prayer attributed to Italian friar Francis of Assisi (1181–1226) implores us to say, "Where there is doubt, faith." When we reconstruct our faith, we grow stronger by staying open to different perspectives and understanding that no one has all the answers. This journey is not just about learning—it is a personal and spiritual process that helps us build a thoughtful and strong faith. Deep and active faith is more important than ever in times of struggle.
Reconstruction calls us back to the heart of Christianity—love, kindness, and justice, just as Jesus taught. Instead of focusing on church divisions or labels, we can embrace a welcoming and life-changing faith. By learning from wise Christian leaders of the past and trusting in God's never-ending love, we can rebuild our faith with courage. This process allows us to rediscover the beauty and strength of Christianity and share the hope of the gospel with a world that needs it.
Prayer
Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of the universe; make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is discord, union; where there is error, truth; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. Grant that I may not seek so much to be consoled as to console, to be understood, to understand, to be loved as to love. Because it is in giving that we receive, in forgiving that we are forgiven, and in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
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