The Shift: Surviving and Thriving After Moving from Conservative to Progressive Christianity

Martin (Unclobbered), podcaster and co-pastor of Sojourn Grace Collective in San Diego, Calif., articulates the “process of a person shifting from their conservative Christian communities” to a more progressive spirituality in this concise, revealing work. Martin explains much of what he felt upon his slow retreat from conservative Christianity after coming to the realization during a men’s church group getaway: the comments, sideways glances, vows to pray for him, and sometimes downright nastiness. He urges forgoing certainty and arguing scriptural interpretations, and offers values for “shifting,” including trust, openness, kindness, mercy, and love. Martin also addresses how those who undergo a shift toward progressivism may begin thinking about “the big four”: God, Jesus, the Bible, and Church, urging readers to “reject the impulse to hold on tight and try to control” and seek out more like-minded communities. Christians already on the path of change will find this a well-written, thoughtful road map. While Martin’s nontraditional message may stun evangelicals (such as his refusal to call God “he”), his generosity and empathy are evident throughout: “I’m finally learning what it means to be whole.” Martin’s welcoming words will be of comfort to any Christian looking for alternatives to conservative Christianity. (Apr.)