Constructive Deconstruction

What is deconstruction? Deconstruction is a methodology developed by French philosopher Jacques Derrida. It is a method of critical analysis of philosophical and literary language which emphasizes the internal workings of language and conceptual systems, the relational quality of meaning, and the assumptions implicit in forms of expression. In other words, concepts such as truth, love, and justice are impossible to determine.

Deconstruction in the Christian community

Deconstruction was popularized in the Christian community by Richard Rohr. Rohr believed faith has three stages: 1) Construction – when someone builds their belief system and subsequent world view 2) Deconstruction – when someone contests their held beliefs and worldview 3) Reconstruction – rebuilding a new more complete set of beliefs. However, recently in the Christian community the deconstruction phase has become synonymous with leaving the faith. High profile individuals such as Jonathan Harris, Rhett and Link, and Marty Sampson have solidified this idea. The point of this article is twofold. Part 1 is to the church. We need to understand the necessity of the individuals who are going through the deconstruction phase. Part 2 is to the deconstructing Christian. God isn’t done with you yet.

Part 1 “Truth, Love, Church”

Let’s take Rhett and Link, two popular YouTubers, whose deconstruction video has well over a million views. What you will see, if you are brave enough to view the comment section, are hundreds of comments from Christians stating these men were obviously never Christians. However, when I heard these men speak, I related in multiple ways, and I saw a deficiency in the church. Let’s take a closer look at what was said by both men.

Rhett: I want the world to know truth 

To some people on YouTube, Rhett came across as smug and hateful. However, to me he seemed like a smart man who was never given the necessary resources and discipleship to weather the storm of life. Personally, as someone who has had a similar mindset there is nothing more infuriating then going to the arbiters of truth and realizing that they are lying. Rhett is clearly well rounded and researched, yet the people he speaks to are hesitant to answer questions about science or Biblical history. I believe this is a direct failing of the church and Christian education. Most of our children will graduate high school with a better understanding of angelology than creation science. While both may be important, I think we can agree on which one of these beliefs will be attacked most often. The church has failed to impart all the truth of the Bible to future generations. Creation, Hebrew history, and most minor prophets have simply been lost. These foundational truths are necessary building blocks for the rest of the Bible. If we continue to edit the parts of the Bible we teach, we silence the truth. When we silence the truth, truth seekers will continue to leave the church finding it frustrating and unfulfilling.

Link: I want the world to know love

Ephesians 4:15 says “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ”

When I listened to Link give his deconstruction it was clear that it wasn’t the logic or facts that had changed his mind. It was his emotions. He saw the church’s lack of love for people, especially his friend. As a church we have lost love as a driving force. Christianity without love is not Christianity at all. At its best it is Pharisaical, and at its worst it is outright tyranny. It will be difficult to ask a man like Link to believe in a culture that values rules over people. Love is the most important aspect of Christianity, without it what do we truly have left? God is love. Without love is God truly present?

When the compassionate can no longer spread the love of Christ throughout the world they will leave to find a place where love can abide.

John 14:6 “I am the way the truth . . .

God is truth. Without the whole truth is God present?

Conclusion: Truth + Love = Church

John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”

1 Corinthians 13:13 “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three: but the greatest of these is charity”

Truth – love = tyranny Love – truth = anarchy

Truth and love are necessary for the spiritual well being of the church. The church is losing valuable leaders because of its refusal to have both traits. Love does not mean a lack of standard; it’s merely understanding that God died for people not standards. Rhett and Link were missionaries and church leaders. Imagine if they again were members of a church. Imagine if God used Rhett’s pertinent questions and insightfulness to help others. Imagine if God used Link’s genuine tenderness and care for others to draw them to Christ. As a church it’s time we loved people where they are and allowed God’s full unadulterated truth to do the work in their lives. 2 Tim 3:16 says, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” Understand your quarrel is with fallen man not a perfect God. 

Part 2: To the Deconstructor:

1. You were failed. The first thing I believe about the majority of deconstructors is that you were failed. Many of your critiques are completely legitimate. The lack of love in the church, the cherry picking of truth, etc. However, what you must understand is that God didn’t fail you, man did. And sadly, they will fail you again because well . . . they are men. Psalm118:8 says, “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Stop looking around and look up.

2. You are needed. The second thing I believe is the majority of deconstructors today are vitally important parts of Christianity. Historically whether it be John Calvin, Martin Luther, or a group such as the Puritans, the ones who are not afraid to ask difficult questions to mainstream Christianity have been a catalyst for change. Truth seekers are necessary for the growth of Christianity. On the other hand, people who thrive off sharing God’s love such as Martin Luther King Jr, Nate Saint, and George Mueller will always remind us that the greatest of these is charity.

3. You are not done. Psalm 49:3 says, “My mouth shall speak of wisdom: and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding.” Doubts and questions seem to be the worst possible crime of a Christian. Acts 17:11 says, “There were more noble than these in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Doubts, questions, and skepticism are all helpful to the overall health of Christianity. They are a helpful and necessary part of the body of Christ. You still have a vital role to play in Christianity, just be sure you are looking for truth and love at its source: Jesus Christ.

4. You have the truth. Psalm 25:5 says, “Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation: on thee do I wait all the day.” The fourth thing you should know is that God has given you the truth of his word and you will be held personally responsible for what you do with it. God is truth and therefore all discussions of truth must include him. Pastors and church leaders may not always tell you the truth despite their best intentions. God gave you his word and a phone line to the author. If you are not utilizing these resources, then perhaps you do not truly seek the truth.

5. You are loved. 1 Corinthians 13:8 says, “Charity never faileth.” In a time where race relations are at a low. Many communities feel unheard. God is still love and love still does not fail. No matter what politician is in office, God still loves you. God’s love is the heart of Christianity. Regardless of where you are, regardless of how sure you are God doesn’t exist or how your former faith is ridiculous, God’s truth and his love are ever present.