I find you to be a genuine person. So I think your faith, while you were in it, was genuine. While you no longer believe in God, I believe this journey is ordained by Him. Like you said, there are many people who feel what you feel. Thousands wrestle heavily with doubt and they deserve to feel seen and understood. You are the voice that He chose to help them understand exactly what's inside of them. You asked for faith, He didn't give it, there's a reason. Please continue to be open and honest and please continue to document this journey with no shame or guilt. I think this is your lot. And even if you don't come back to the faith until you're 40, I believe you will lead many people home. I'm rooting for you! Can't wait for the next video.
@@benadek6703 Peter fell and now the story of his mistakes are used to encourage millions of christians. there are many different kinds of stories, hundreds of which are about how people walked away from God and came back to Him years later. and now their testimony inspires others to come back. God may not have told Him to walk away but He allowed it because He’s in charge of the story as a whole and that includes the ending. “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” Psalm 139:16
Found you years ago in the beginning of my walk with Jesus, and your videos back then helped me a lot. I will be forever grateful for you! Still here as a supporter and always look forward to your videos. You have so much talent and insight, never stop creating!
So I’ve been following you for 8 years at this point, chile Jesus or no Jesus the essence of you is the same lol. You’re still thoughtful, passionate, genuine and vulnerable. Those are some of the qualities I’ve seen in you over the years and qualities I have and/or aspire to have. I also feel very deeply. I recognize that we are kindred spirits in that sense. When you first announced, I was thrown to say the least. I saw some similarities with my walk with Christ and what you had shared of yours. Your videos helped me accept the struggle of doubt and faith as part of the Christian walk. I couldn’t wrap my head around your choice but recognized that your journey is yours. I’m glad the journey is treating you well. I’m thankful you’re willing to share a little of how the journey is going with us. God has charged us to love Him with all our hearts as well as love our neighbor as ourselves. I’m a firm believer that how you love your neighbor is a reflection of how you love God. As a human being, you are deserving of love and kindness. Your beliefs don’t disqualify you from that. It’s my prayer that as you journey through life, you will continue to experience God’s love through the people in your life and the people you meet. I pray you’re being loved well. I’m glad to hear that people are showing love, kindness and care towards you. I’m looking forward to whatever follow up videos are to come.
@Shamira Taylor I agree Shamira. Jesus gives us the power to choose and knows every decision we will make. Life is a journey and we should always choose to grow and evolve as human beings. Joe makes his own decisions according to his convictions and shouldn’t be judged for that just because it’s not what others deem “the right choice”. I pray this new channel will be a safe space for Joe first and foremost as well as being a safe space for others to share vulnerably about their own journey and experiences.
It was kind and generous of you to share your process of why you left Christianity. For those who began following you while you were a Christian, it was great to get closure regarding what led to your decision. I was hoping you would release a video like this someday. When you made the announcement it did shock me however this journey is challenging, Christian or otherwise. You are loved in Jesus name.😊
As you deconstruct, relearn, unlearn. I pray you come around full circle. Not into the arms of Christianity or the church. But into the arms of Jesus. I pray you Godspeed. I don't judger you. I believe its important to ask question. I care more about your soul than your gifts. I just want to see you in heaven with. We love you and wish you the absolute best.
when i first came to Christ everything changed for me, and i was completely drawn to your vulnerability as a Christian. the shock and surprise came from a place where you were someone who felt like a friend, i hope in someway God can remind you of who He is. i dont think theres a Christian without a story, without being brought to the pits of themselves and finally seeing God for who He really is. Its not easy journey, not even close. but the difference between life then and now, is i finally have a reason to keep fighting. May you get that reason back. i dont think that for many of us, you were just content, you are a person and a brother and we're still praying for you
Hey Joe, so glad to hear from you again. I became a Christian in 2017 and still am to this day. Your videos back in the day really encouraged me and I really missed them :) After hearing about the things you went through and the struggles with faith you had, all I can say is I'm sorry you had to go through all that. But I'm also happy that you found yourself at the end of the day. It took courage to move from one point of your life to the next and that's something admirable regardless of what it is. Keep going with your music career! As a music producer, I understand how tough it can be, but it's definitely worth pursuing! I will keep you in my prayers and hope everything works out in the future! - Rui
“You don’t have to know where you’re going to know that you should not stay.” Thank you for those words. It’s been extremely difficult finding myself outside of faith. But the thought that I can be on the journey to figure out who I am without knowing where I’ll end up… it’s freeing.
I'll never forget your ChaseGod webisodes bro, ALL OF THEM. I have a few saved locally and some of your vlogs saved to my phone locally even though you've taken them down. They are anointed in my opinion, I gained a lot of from them. I know you are going through a lot right now with your understanding of God and things that of that nature, but I am still appreciative of you and all the hard work you've put forth over the years. Thank you Joe, much love and blessings on your everyday journey.
Thank you for this, Joe. I have been on my deconstruction journey and leave of faith for about 8 months, but it started way before that and can’t be oversimplified like you said. I have not told most of my family about it yet; I’m still building up the courage. I first found your channel as a fellow doubter and still relate to your journey. Thank you for sharing with us, the way you articulate yourself and the way you take time to talk about things is much appreciated.
I remember watching you when I walked away from God, but I had to come to terms with myself and go back to him now I feel immense peace. first off I’m not writing this to judge you but to show some love and compassion. I respect you being open and transparent with us. I’m not subscribed but this is my second time seeing your video on my feed. Just wanted to let you know that God loves you and is remorseful. You have heard all of this before but I truly do care for you and I hope you come back to him, he’ll never stop waiting for you. All love❤
As someone who found you through your Christian content and am still a Christian, i really appreciate everything you have to say. I speak for a lot of us in this, we really like you because of who you are and have genuine care for you as a person not just because you were a Christian, but simply because you are you. Your thoughts on apologetics are so insightful and interesting. Just appreciate this honestly and this conversation.
I discovered you back in 2016 and I love EVERY piece of CONTENT you've ever put out. I'd just like to say, thank you Joe for being you. I've always felt your authenticity throughout the years. It's no different now. God is working, even now, even here, always. This was such a vulnerable video. Thank you Joe!
Thank you for speaking out!!! I feel as a Christian I need to hear different perspectives so I can be sensitive to different journeys. We must listen more than we speak. So thank you so much Joseph Solomon for your bravery and soberness even in an unsettled journey.
So many people have died not living in their truth or being as vulnerable/ authentic as you are being. I’ve watched and loved your videos for years. No matter what your beliefs are, I appreciate you sharing your gifts with us.
Joe, I appreciate you sharing your journey. As a Christian, a lot of us have struggled with Christianity. You are just strong/brave enough to share it and take a stand. I believe that you are doing exactly what you should be doing. ❤️
Even listening to this, I can feel the weight of the emotions. It's not an easy thing to go through and this video must also have been tough to record and post...I can't imagine. Thank you for sharing, Joe. I have loads of things to think about/ reflect on from this, and I'm looking forward to more videos. ever learning & still listening :)
I really appreciate your honesty. I have currently come to terms with or had the realisation or accepted 😄 "I am human, having a human experience "...and woah, it has helped alot!!!
Hi Joe :) you may not see this, but i just want to thank you for your vulnerability I resonated so much with this video because of how relatable it is to me. I grew up in the faith myself and always felt myself thirsting for knowledge of the Word and of the Christian God. I walked away from the faith myself in 2018, and it wasn’t as easy as people think it is. I wanted to go to theological school! Learn Hebrew, travel to the lands where Christianity originated; all of it. It was the overwhelming amount of contradictions in the faith, the division of denominations of Christianity, and the overall circular reasoning the teachings held that finally had me walk away even despite wanting to hold on for so long. Anyways, I’m looking forward to hearing you share your journey and even if you don’t, that’s okay too. Your vulnerability thus far has been refreshing, impactful and I do hope you work towards giving up your “cross” one step at a time, one day at a time.
Thank you, Joe! This felt like sitting across the table from you, within a safe space to be. I hope in this comment section you will find safety and appreciation for yourself. Not safety in the sense of "Hey, open up more now", but in a believing and gentle audience. I can only speak for myself when I say I really do care about you as a person and I am here to stay because there really are no easy answers to the complexities of life and your thoughts and well thought through words and your art, music, podcast and photography, have been healing to many, including me. I am complexly traumatized from (mostly) abuse through family. Found steady ground in Christianity when my parents divorced, but been accompanied by doubts and questions through years of estrangement, brokenness and then sickness caused by the abuse. Complex PTSD having shattered all I believed in like I never expected possible during the past 5 years. I, too, have been in therapy (specialized on trauma) since 2019. And last month I felt relieved for the first time after a session. I don't know if I'll ever go back to believing in a good God who takes action upon his people calling. ATM I don't think so... and that's okay because it's more complex than want or will or prayer or whatever easy answers there are to my experience of life. Thank you for making space for me.
Thanks for showing you are human. We all go through these thoughts and don't want to talk about it. I struggled with belief so much until recently. I kept praying for God to increase my faith past understanding. He did it through his presence. Truly lifechanging. We have to shed the worldy church view for sure. It starts there.
Joe I appreciate you sharing your journey with us. It means so much. I can say I was and am still very heartbroken to know that you decided to walk away from the faith. But in all this, I still appreciate God for the impact you’ve had on the Christian community and believe it or not, even still now. Your heart is so big for others and you can see it all here. There is so much Jesus all over you and I don’t know that this is the end of the journey because even as you speak, there is so much healing and love coming from your heart. I pray that all is well with you as you continue in this journey. Love you Jo ❤️❤️❤️ You’re a very special person to this planet no matter what.
I support because I genuinely like you. I came in the early "Chase God" era and really was more drawn to your music and your presence. The content has changed but you're are still that humble, gentle (seems so) well raised man. Proud of you no matter what you decide.
I’ll speak for myself (although I see a lot of commonalities in your comments) You are more than a piece of content. I think I first found you via flights and feelings when you were still creating it. I found the essence of who you are, to come through what you shared, both in content and style. You’re a poet through and through and I admire your unwavering integrity in all things you do and so transparently share. The tension of the divide between faith and doubt within you is palpable and I’m glad you found yourself and your peace more important than religion. (And I believe god is, too) As someone who has struggled w depression and suicidal ideation myself, I know how critical it is to protect your peace at whatever cost. I came and I stayed for the relatable transparent shares, so beautifully and poetically curated. But I fell in love with all the music because just like in your podcast or vlogs, you lay it all out for us. You pour your soul into everything you do, because that’s the only way some of us know how to exist and create. I just want you to know you are appreciated for sharing yourself. Even in your public processing of this experience, you help others of us not feel alone in our unique journeys. 💜🙏🏽
Joe I've been watching your series since 2015. I see you closer to God than ever before && I don't even believe in God (at least not the Christian narrative). Through your humanness, i see the divine in you. it's in your transparency and the way you communicate the human experience. The way you articulate the battle of doubt and explaining the WANT that every person desires. You're right; We all desire God and yet our efforts to understand God only baffles us. You're a person who I believe loves the people of this world and that does not want to limit that love only to a specific religious group. Your love is only expanding. thank you for sharing your story. it definitely impacted a lot of us. blessings to you and your fam always. Major Alan Watts, Buddha, Jesus, Socrates vibes from you! Da' Vinci too haha!!
Thank you Joe, I was among the curious crowd on twitter and I must say you are so perceptive and aware about what peoples desires could be from you during a very challenging experience. You are also very humble to explain and give these people insight and cover all the possible questions they may have into such a big personal experience that is not easily conveyed in one conversation/videk you did so well to articulate your feelings and logic. Thank you. Tamara
I’m listening to you for the first time. Found it difficult at first but can’t stop listening. I have doubts as a Christian, have left the church but have come back and am holding on to my belief in Jesus and God. I do believe in the bible but I know the bible can be a huge stumbling block! It can turn you on but it can turn you off. For me, right now, wallowing with depression and anxiety with an Ecclesiastics look on life (after watching my dying Christian mum fight to stay alive) the bible and believing that God exists gives me meaning and purpose. Keep searching and keep talking, don’t give up. Be honest and don’t worry what we Christians say. Work it out.. with love x
What I’ve learned about guilt and shame for myself is, that has been more pressed into me from people than God or even the faith itself. I destroy and beat up myself but God never does. Even just looking at the life of Jesus, he shames no one. My guilt and shame comes from my fear of rejection, as well my desire to do everything right and be loved. Truth is I’m loved right now regardless, I’m not perfect and I don’t have to be.
fully agree with the first two sentences. one could argue the life of jesus doesn’t offer shame, but i’d argue the cross of jesus does. in christian religion, the bloody cross of christ is the symbol of your sins hanging publicly like a dirty tampon (kinda using paul’s analogy, not mine.) the cross should make christian’s say “look what jesus had to do because of me”. he was openly shamed in your place. your shame doesn’t go away, it’s just displaced. the literal use of a scapegoat is just that.
just pointing out the difference, is all. within christianity, shame and guilt is sort of a requirement. vs outside of that type of faith, it is very much an optional interface.
Thoughtful & insightful as it's been over the years. ❤️💐🙏🏽 Life can be sometimes, an uncertain & confusing journey, it's beautiful therefore, to have a space which offers grace & insight as we show up for each human experience & reality... Listening to your podcast in the past, and now to this video has been a constant reminder in my journey that it's okay...it was okay to ask questions, it was okay to leave, I may not have all the answers right now, but it's okay to show up for today, to be present for what is happening today and trust that life gets clearer with time.
I still connect to this channel because because that same kind person you were before you still are. So glad you are still friends with some friends that you worked with in that former space. I always wondered about that. ❤ This video was really good! I watched the whole thing. . I loved reading comments from the Christians like me who still love you and what you do. Watching so many people tear you down was devastating for me.
We are completely different people but I’ve always admired you for your thought process and creativity. It always been a source of inspiration in my own journey.
Didn't know what to expect from this video. but one thing I didn't expect was relating to it so deeply and how much this spoke to where I find myself right now in life. Thanks for being you Joe.
Very interesting and refreshing insight as always, your intelligence and thoughtfulness have obviously remained. God's gifts are truly without repentance. All the best to you brother, may you find truth.
The "they never had faith to begin with" hurts. do you know how much, I want this? I pray, cry, fast and still nothing. Isn't God the one who give faith? Maybe he didn't give it to me yet. Forget about the people that's having a hard time right now with their faith. What are you doing with yours?
There are many things that I appreciate about you Joe, one of the most apparent is your desire to be authentic in your thought, inquiry and your validation of the human experience. People throw around the phrase "thought leader" way too often imo but I can honestly say that you model true authenticity in a way that most people are afraid too. Tbh it hurt to see you suffer through your period of doubt only because I understand how frustrating it can be to want to understand something that just isn't making sense. I appreciate you so much and wish you well on your journey! ❤
Thank you for your vulnerability. I remember discovering you through PIA and have always appreciated and loved your honesty and authenticity. When you first started your Flights & Feelings podcast, I would wait patiently for your episodes to drop and listen immediately. I would think "wow, the beauty of this man's vulnerability, wisdom, dignity, and grace." When you posted on instagram about leaving the Christian faith, I remember feeling so heartbroken. Not exactly by your leaving, but by the response of other "Christians" and the lack of compassion, care, and curiosity. The weight and burden you carried in having to make this public announcement to more than just family and friends. We live in such a "cancel culture" and it's unfair, as you mentioned, to oversimplify the human experience, behavior, decisions, and actions for our own comfort. The way people assess the lives of those who have a platform and choose to share their journey through one singular lens is unfair. This walk through life this is a tough one and we are meant to sit in the discomfort and question/challenge the narratives that be. That's what I've always appreciated about you. We are constantly evolving as the world around us is and I'm thankful for you sharing your constant evolution and growth when you really don't have to at all. What you have given and continue to give this world, is beautiful, raw, and a blessing. You are gifted beyond words and are still impacting lives. No matter where you land in whatever season, I will forever be a fan. A fan of your creativity, journey, passion, evolution and humanity. Thanks Joe 🤍
A year ago I looked at your deconversion with disrespect, disappointment and pity. Now you’re part of why I don’t feel as alone and lost in the journey I ended up taking myself. I’m sorry, and thank you.
wow. thanks for this comment Louay. i had to keep in mind people like you when i was frustrated with the responses (not saying you were one of the people who vocalized their opinion). but i know how i felt a few years ago when people walked away, and how i may have responded in my heart (i never publicized). and now some of those same people, i was looking to for advice and empathy. i think fear may make a lot of people respond to me negatively. deep down they may be afraid their fate will be the same, and so maybe their disdain for me makes them feel more on the holy side. righteous indignation. but anyways, without getting wordy, i hope you'll find some safe space on this side. thanks for responding.
@@flightsfeelings thank you for taking the time to respond Joe. I never vocalised it either, and it didn’t last very long. The respect and empathy I had built for you over the years made it difficult to treat it like all the other deconversions I’d react to. But the “…what if I’m the wrong one?” thought was too scary to accept, until later that year. It might’ve led to some envy…instead of the “drowning in sin, bitter, and meaningless” scenario I was conditioned to expect, you just seemed…free. Free from the relentless doubts and confusion, free to connect with who YOU are, putting out even more of your creative potential (it’s funny, during that time I remember thinking “STOP MAKING BEAUTIFUL MUSIC YOU’RE MAKING IT HARDER TO IGNORE YOU”) Maybe I wished for the same, but I couldn’t have imagined doing so and facing the collapse of my worldview, identity and the ideal of my (very religious) family and community…so disdain was easier. Anyway, it’s been a wild year…bit surreal even typing this out. Very few people know yet and I might have to delete this soon. But I’d love to chat more about it with you. Either way, just seeing you respond makes me feel a bit more ok. Thank you.
12:05 you are so much more than Christianity. Outside of your wisdom and gifts, it’s your character that resonated with me most and it’s why I still support. There’s always been a genuineness I have felt from your videos, regardless of the content of the video itself. Keep being you.
Thank you Joe for being humble and transparent about your experience. Still sticking around because I love the content, also interested in your mindset and experience. Would love to hear the nit and gritty of what led you out, or any critiques. I feel those truly help others be challenged and grow. So I’m here for it Joe, love you man. God Bless you bro.
It’s refreshing that regardless of the change you felt necessary to make, you exude kindness, humility, and love. I don’t understand the intricate details, & it’s not necessary for me to understand it all, I am enjoying your perspective on what you choose to share.
I see that therapy on you my nigga. It looks good on you. Keep on healing. Experience the fullness of your life and live with no regrets, even if it’s outside the faith. The best of us will give support and safety for whatever part of your journey
I have to say this I love you, right from the first day I watch your chase...I have been confused and overwhelmed a lot of times and also asking questions, also have personal shame and guilty too...I really kinder relate with you but God really knew and understand you better even much than you do...💯 You still belong to Christ Jesus... that's it!
The last minute and 10 seconds of this video resonated deeply in my soul. This journey that I've been on for the past 3 years has been exhausting and lonely. Everyone in my life expects me to be strong 24/7, and completely disregards my feelings and emotions. Simply hearing the words, "you're human" woke me up from this robotic state, and reminded me that it's ok to feel, to make mistakes, and to not have it all figured out - regardless of what others may think or say. Wow... Thank you Joe!
Joseph! Your videos, thoughts, ideas, poetry, and music has always inspired me. I found you as ChaseGodTV. Those videos helped provide context in the beginning of my faith journey. I’ve always seen you as such a thought leader. Well studied and well spoken. It’s true, there are plenty of us who will continue to support you for the sake of supporting a genuine, thoughtful, talented man. Thank you for continuing to create. It’s great to hear your thoughts and perspectives again, even if they differ from mine. I wish nothing but the best for you on your journey. 🥂
I’m glad you’re expressing yourself Solomon. I agree with how you are defining the want and desire of faith for yourself at the time. I really can’t come to understand why we as Christians judge others’ desire for God. And I don’t know who came up with the idea that if someone leave the faith that they didn’t have a desire for God in the first place. That is such a myth because we cannot judge one’s walk with God. Most of us have had (and still have) an emotional connection with God. And as we experience life, we may have unanswered questions or grow out of pursuing the faith and see God through a different perspective that works for us. Our walks with God are a GENUINE relationship with God whether we are in the faith or not. We are still God’s creation and nobody can judge that.
I have just returned to Christ after leaving the Catholic church just before going to college years ago. When I left my faith in Christ behind, I had a lot of the same questions and doubts as you, mostly because my political beliefs and my personality were not seen as “Christian” to other people in the church. I felt that if the Christian church was so corrupt and other Christians seemed to be so judgmental and hateful, then perhaps everything I thought about Jesus was wrong too. Although I respect and understand where you’re at, I do want to say that it took me walking away from my the church and going through the world on my own to realize that the true spirit of God and Christ is so far removed from most modern day Christian organizations. I needed to leave those groups behind to build a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus and with The Father in the spirit. Your relationship with God and with Jesus is totally personal to you. Each of us has our own journey to walk, and no one has the right to judge where you are in your walk. It’s brave of you to be open and honest about where you’re at, and although it’s none of my business, I do pray that you will come to develop your own spiritual relationship with the Lord in time.
Joe, much respect for your genuine honesty and care about this topic. Honestly you don’t owe anyone an explanation or answer but the fact that you are sharing your beliefs says a lot about your heart. Mad respect
Hey Joe! What you shared at 36:35 reminds me of the Johari Window concept. Whenever I’ve used it with clients or in my own reflections I add “the person you think you should be”. That’s where many of us struggle. Especially when “who we think we should be” doesn’t align with who we WANT to be. Thanks for sharing your journey/letting us “hear you think” 💫
Hi again. So I watched the Q1 video before this. As I’m listening to you say there are 3 versions of our selves. I’m like well actually 4 (the person you want to become) then you said. Definitely resonating with a lot of what you are saying. 💫 Constantly evolving to become the version that want to be and presenting it to the world to receive that version. I had this subconscious thought of not being good enough from experiences from childhood but I believe from the narrative in the Christian community of being a sinner and we are all imperfect people etc. I didn’t realize until after going through therapy and forming my own view on life that it was hindering how I wanted to authentically wanted to present my self to the world. So good. Finding some much truth from your work. Definitely grateful for you
All of this was so insightful. I’ve had my struggles with Christianity, and ended leaving western Christianity (particularly American Protestantism). I found more fulfillment in Ethiopian Orthodoxy. I’ve learned so much from you in the past and am looking forward to learning more from you.
Joeeeee🤞🏾 i remember finding your podcast on Spotify. I’ve always been Christian but didn’t realize you were till a few weeks before your announcement 😅. Apologetics is one of the few things in the Christian faith I tried to stay away from. Not because I don’t know but I’ve seen the way people who are deep just treat people like punching bags. But I was shocked at the announcement but somethings are necessary to find our way. It’s hard especially in your predicament but from your old videos/ podcast I can tell you’re surrounded by some amazing people. So I hope they can continue to guide you. It’s a hard process but wising you the best 🤍
Next person to say this…but I was shocked with the news as well but not surprised because I felt that you always said many of the things I felt as a Christian struggling with doubt and though you say you aren’t a Christian anymore I can still relate to the same way you share your journey now! The 3 maybe even 4 dimensional thing! not only does it affect my life as a Christian but also how/what I post online and what I tell some people and not others, my choice of clothing, and so much more… Anyway I think it’s also so easy for people to nitpick everything especially with social media and the need of constantly being right in the present moment but how do you ever really know without the journey. I could say a lot more but keep doing what you’re doing. I love to hear you speak your truth so please whenever you feel called to do, don’t hesitate to share another video 😁There’s so much power in voicing these types of opinions so you’re truly appreciated!🤍 I chose to watch this instead of Netflix so…. says a lot
Glad I got to hear your heart in this video. Back in the day, at some point while watching your ChaseGodTV webisodes, I remember telling a friend “Man, I’d really love to study and talk about the Bible with Joe. Like he’s a thinker…the type that wrestles with the text because he genuinely wants to understand. I still don’t know too many people like this. You once mentioned that a friend told you that “You’re gonna be ok.” and by God’s grace and every breathe you’re given, you will. Thanks for being open to share where you currently are in life’s journey. Hoping that it doesn’t become yet another weight you have to bear to keep us updated and that you’ll process where you in the beauty of solitude and around love that delights in the truth. Salvation, being born of the Spirit, is a mystery that those within and outside of the Christian faith can’t fully articulate through our human experiences. But like the old hymn says “we'll understand it better by and by…”
You just don't know what your content means to me as I'm going through a similar journey. I know it can be hard to talk about this because people will present to you a just simple 'solution of going back to being religious as the thing that solves all the issues in the world. Thank you for having the courage to publicly talk about this and processing it with us, you are really making me feel like I'm not alone and that there's someone who understands
I remember way back in the day when you were recording your videos in that room with the red wall; there was a video about listening to secular music and you made the comparison of sitting with your wife listening to a new Usher song that was like "I just cheated on my wife, and she don't gotta know". I thought that was pretty funny, and clearly it's stuck with me however-many years on. So there's a part of my brain that's still like "wow Joseph Solomon - he's a celebrity!", but I'm trying to push back on that attitude in my life because people are people, and whether they're in my life or on my phone screen they deserve to be treated as such. Granted, the exclusively on-screen nature of how I see you makes that harder, but viewing you as a person means valuing you as more than just someone who says the things I like to hear. So yeah, I hope that's encouraging. As ever thanks for the humility and thoughtfulness.
Thank you Joe, I’ve been going thru my own deconstruction for sometime and all of your content this past year has been extremely encouraging. Looking forward to more of everything!
I think the Cross is a laundry room and a departure lounge. It also symbolises humanity in its current state, as well as victory over human conditions. This is an interesting journey - what a question to have asked of you!? We're grateful to participate.
I don’t know if I’m the only one that cried during this video but I cried. The first video I saw of yours was a video about struggling with pornography long long ago and as a young teen girl I felt heard/ seen. You were the first Christian I had “met” that was honest, vulnerable, shared truth without judgement, you were loving, and genuine. Even without the label of Christianity I find you to be the same. In this video you have shared the same layers of yourself that I have come to know. I appreciate you. I am grateful. I have struggled too in many ways with the faith and in some ways I think people believe it’s easy to stay near the cross when the cross has caused the pain you have now. I’m glad you are on your journey. I pray you find your destination or some semblance of. You are loved, Grace and Peace
For me as a “follower”, I’ve long had to let go of the image of the person I knew you to be in the very short and small setting in which we interacted; and I think that would help a lot of other people as well. The thing that really hit me in this video was your statement about the cross, and if it’s not Jesus up there, who should it be? And in the sense of christianity, it shouldn’t be anyone. Jesus got down bc it was finished. Anyhow, there’s so much that could be said, but any Christian who says they haven’t struggled with faith, doubt, reading the word but not seeing it manifest in reality is a liar.
As someone who decided to formerly leave the religion last year I did it when I had the power to. At first I gave it my best shot to ensure it wasn't something I was turning away from because of others, but that it was 100% for myself. On the outside though, it didn't look like that to others. I feel better now. It was the best choice for me. I also live and think in grays so I was a "problem" there 😅
Within my own deconstruction and building of faith I've learned that there is no defining end to either. This is exhausting and gives room to gaslighters/false teachers. that's why Hebrews 11:6 gives me strength to have courage to believe. I don't have all the answers and I won't have all the answers. I am not perfect and I will never be perfect. My faith in Christ is not built on certainty neither perfection rather faith itself. Faith is the paradox I accept despite its complexities and defiance of my human psyche. No wonder without it it is impossible to please a God who's ways and thoughts are above my own. Grace and peace to everyone.
This journey as a human is beautiful and awful all at once. This past year I’ve understood just how much clenched hands don’t receive and the wisdom, bravery, trust and exhaustion it takes to let broken things break. I see you. I understand.
Hey Joe, we met YEARS ago back at Genesis in TX, not sure if you remember. But we met at a time when I had just returned from some overseas trips and was questioning the validity of missions and I mostly kept it to myself. I have followed your public journey and in all of your seasons and I have always appreciated your honesty and the transparency in everything you have shared whether it was your music, faith, poetry, or even a simple conversation. Thanks for letting us in on these moments and bringing conversation around what is an extremely difficult, emotionally charged, often lonely and devastating journey for those who go through it. Wishing continued peace and clarity on your journey.
Thank you for being so candid with your own experience with religion. It’s definitely hard to hear you were in a toxic relationship with Christianity. I’ve seen many folks go through that same dynamic of a shame/guilt driven relationship with Jesus. It’s interesting, because I’m only speaking from my experience when I say my relationship with Jesus hasn’t been driven by guilt and shame; it has driven by my own humanity. I am someone who was born and raised in the church but felt suffocated. Just like what you said, if the relationship is toxic, run. I tried to run from God, but found it was possible to be in a healthy relationship with Him. There’s many more layers to my experiences with religion and I could talk about this for hours…but this is the comment section lol
Oh wow I'm a christian but I feel you. I know you really loved God. I struggled with organised Christianity and Christians but I've been very blessed to be pursued and encountered by God's love personally... Without it I would most likely left the faith. Without Jesus love pursuing me hard I really would have left the faith. I am sorry if you didn't have a personal encounter. Thanks for sharing your journey with us...honestly we Christians need to be open to understand
I totally identify with your experience. I don't know how anyone can remain in orthodox Christian faith for the long term without a personal and supernatural encounter with the love and transformation of Christ. That's really the core evidence and reassurance of faith (via the Holy Spirit) for most believers (I can't speak for all I guess?) - concrete personal experience with the presence and love of God. If Joe has never had that I have to commend him for sticking with Christianity for as long as he did, to be honest. Sidenote: So, this is why I think the elevation of the Bible as the foundation of Christian faith is dangerously misguided. It's the death and resurrection of Christ that's the foundation and source of Christian faith. The collection of scriptures we know as the Bible testify of Christ, but they are not the source of faith in Him. Without personal encounters with the transforming power of Christ's death and resurrection in your life, the Bible alone cannot prop up faith.
Hey brother, I truly do honor your honesty. Christianity can be a idol, and the Christian can be an idol, and the cross can be an idol that distort our understanding of immortality. In your journey I hope you find your Creator. Blessings.
Your comment section is so irkyyyyyy. 😭 Christians watched this and didn’t listen to a thing you said. Your point about oversimplification is spot on. It’s never for your benefit it’s always for the other persons sanity. I stopped liking apologetics back when I realized that as Christians we just couldn’t say “I don’t know” it’s the arrogance that we have the absolute truth and know all like we are God. God knows all, we do not but most of us believe we do. Praying that you receive a lot more love in this journey and you meet a lot of dope people and that Christians who don’t get it let it go and stop commenting. 😂
Thank you for this. Creatively and spiritually you were one of my role models so I was deeply shocked and hurt when you opened up about where you were at. And I acknowledge the temptation to oversimplify your experience. It's much easier to see your rejection of Christianity as an indictment on yourself instead of an indictment of Christianity and the church. After listening to you I know for sure that delving into the latter is more constructive and in general I believe if anything needs to be scrutinized its God, since only the truth can stand the test of scrutiny. So excited to hear more on your journey as you continue to share, I think there's something we can all learn from it.
Hey Joe💗 Thank you for allowing us into such a vulnerable journey. Im watching you with care and tenderness. I am curious to know your thoughts on spiritual warfare/strongholds/deliverence as it relates to you and your experience with faith & doubt. Looking forward to future content you put out. Love and peace.
I think as a Christian one of the biggest challenges I have is forgetting that I serve someone who isn’t created. The minute I think in terms of needing answers For everything I then place myself in his seat. That would then make him less God and him subject to me. Where there is no self-satisfying intellectual answer to my question trust and faith come into play. Faith requires not knowing. If I was all-knowing and had all the answers that would make the creator less relevant. Faith will fail where intellect stops? In that case, did faith exist? Intellect in itself can indeed become a hurdle to faith. Respect your honesty with your struggle with the Christian faith. That takes pride and humility if they can coexist. LOL. Our finite knowing vs God’s infinite knowing will keep us in search of answers.
"How could we drink up the sea? Who gave us the sponge to wipe away the entire horizon? What were we doing when we unchained this earth from its sun? Whither is it moving now? Whither are we moving? Away from all suns? Are we not plunging continually? Backward, sideward, forward, in all directions? Is there still any up or down? Are we not straying, as through an infinite nothing?...What water is there for us to clean ourselves? What festivals of atonement, what sacred games shall we have to invent?"
I appreciate you Joe. I've had similar thoughts on some things you spoke on. When you talked about Christian apologetics as gaslighting, I never actually labeled it that way. Certainly felt it at times. Be well ✈️
Joe, I completely understand where you are. I was in this place of the doubt for years simply because I had questions that no one could answer, I wanted to know God and no one permitted me to have to space to question God and religious behavior. My questions were seen as me disrespecting God or disrespecting culture. So, I decided to move away from all of it and I was a whole PK!! LOL . Anywho, the Christian space is challenging for those who just have questions and want to know... or are struggling with believing in God and the existence of God... or religion... My faith started to somewhat improve when I took theology classes ( which I am assuming you do also).. so my question was somewhat answered.... but I still struggled with faith due to some deep and very valid questions I wanted to be answered... I continued to search and study but it was not enough for me... I had the head knowledge but ... I was not convinced... This part of my life did end eventually and that is another story for a different day.. but you're at a very good space... and so I understand where you are.. I hear where you are... and I there is no shame in where you are in your life... I pray your journey leads you to where you want it to be
It's beautiful to hear your transparency during your transition...while I'm still in the faith and content, there are undeniable things that connect the human experience that will evoke empathy and love for journeys that may differ than your own!
I wonder if your prayers for faith are being answered right now. I have a good feeling about your journey. Can’t wait to see what’s in store for you next
Great conversation. This is so good. Lol my early journey of being saved I found you. I could see a transition in you but life always breeds a beautiful journey. I pray you find your way.
I'm reading the comments and my question is "what about eternity?" Im nauseous with anxiety thinking about this. I was a Christian because I loved God but now I just don't wanna go to hell. I love and respect Joe btw
Hey Joe! I just wanted to let you know that I sincerely appreciate your voice and insight. I am going through everything you’ve mentioned and the weight can be heavy at times. Being so sure of things one day and then having other days where doubt, anxiety, guilt and other heavy feelings flood in. Therapy has been an amazing outlet, but all of this is just so complex that I’ve accepted that my transition out of Christianity will take TIME to unpack. I’ve been in the Christian space for 25 years (my entire life), and my girlfriend always reminds me that I have to give myself time on the other side to unlearn, re-learn, unpack, heal, cry, be upset, and all of the other emotions that come with transitions into a new way of thinking and life. All in all I really just want you to be okay and to keep taking life one day at a time. I can sense the heaviness of this for you because I relate to that feeling. So glad you’re taking your time and letting yourself experience this because you’re not alone and I see you. I’ve never commented before but really want you to know that I’ve thought about you and your well being a lot over the last year and just genuinely want you to know that there are people out here rooting for you. Love you man and keep taking care of yourself. You deserve happiness, peace, and much more no matter what your next steps are. Sorry for the long book! Lol it’s a lot here to talk about! All love from Indianapolis, IN! ❤ P.S. Also would you ever get a Patreon again?? I came across your content not too long after you stopped having one and always wondered if you’d start it back up again! I’d support in a heartbeat if you ever did!!!
Thanks for sharing. You really don’t have too but this in depth conversation is necessary. I found chaseGodtv, one of the times I struggled in my faith. In undergrad 2015, seeing a young black Man express his faith with vulnerability and depth. You are a content creator and a good one. Any sect you decided to be in, you experience some level of success. Your videos helped me choose Christianity even though I was raised Christian but I related to your vulnerability and I know I want to be that for others. I went to seminary, still there to go deeper. Your voice is necessary. Thanks for opening up this way, you really don't have any obligation to do this and put yourself out this way.
you know it’s funny…i was one of the people who just couldn’t understand why you couldn’t just let it go…all the negative reactions you reacted to versus the more accepting…. even to the point that it cost me a genuine community with you…and i’ll be honest it made me so frustrated with you…not because of the decision you made to leave christianity…but because i couldn’t understand why you couldn’t just ignore all the backlash and move forward…but maybe that was me just not wanting you to go through the pain of others opinions of you…or maybe i was projecting my own ways and how i operate onto you. and for that i apologize. listening to the comparison to a divorced person really made a lot of sense. i’m glad you see you are doing well and that you are able to share where you are currently…even in these small increments…sending love your way💜✈️
This was a long video but I still have so many questions because I guess there's so much that could be said but not all at once...thanks for your honesty...again I hope you find what you are looking for...
I find you to be a genuine person. So I think your faith, while you were in it, was genuine. While you no longer believe in God, I believe this journey is ordained by Him. Like you said, there are many people who feel what you feel. Thousands wrestle heavily with doubt and they deserve to feel seen and understood. You are the voice that He chose to help them understand exactly what's inside of them. You asked for faith, He didn't give it, there's a reason. Please continue to be open and honest and please continue to document this journey with no shame or guilt. I think this is your lot. And even if you don't come back to the faith until you're 40, I believe you will lead many people home. I'm rooting for you! Can't wait for the next video.
Come on and prophesy! God is not done!
I hear what you said until you said him walking away was ordained by God because that’s blasphemy and 🧢🧢🧢🧢🧢🧢🧢
@@benadek6703 Peter fell and now the story of his mistakes are used to encourage millions of christians. there are many different kinds of stories, hundreds of which are about how people walked away from God and came back to Him years later. and now their testimony inspires others to come back. God may not have told Him to walk away but He allowed it because He’s in charge of the story as a whole and that includes the ending.
“All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” Psalm 139:16
This was a beautiful response. You really understand 🥺
What a beautiful and hope FILLED comment. Thank you for this!
Found you years ago in the beginning of my walk with Jesus, and your videos back then helped me a lot. I will be forever grateful for you! Still here as a supporter and always look forward to your videos. You have so much talent and insight, never stop creating!
Many have been through seasons of doubt and feelings of letting go but Jesus will not ever let go of us ❤️
So I’ve been following you for 8 years at this point, chile Jesus or no Jesus the essence of you is the same lol. You’re still thoughtful, passionate, genuine and vulnerable. Those are some of the qualities I’ve seen in you over the years and qualities I have and/or aspire to have. I also feel very deeply. I recognize that we are kindred spirits in that sense. When you first announced, I was thrown to say the least. I saw some similarities with my walk with Christ and what you had shared of yours. Your videos helped me accept the struggle of doubt and faith as part of the Christian walk. I couldn’t wrap my head around your choice but recognized that your journey is yours. I’m glad the journey is treating you well. I’m thankful you’re willing to share a little of how the journey is going with us. God has charged us to love Him with all our hearts as well as love our neighbor as ourselves. I’m a firm believer that how you love your neighbor is a reflection of how you love God. As a human being, you are deserving of love and kindness. Your beliefs don’t disqualify you from that. It’s my prayer that as you journey through life, you will continue to experience God’s love through the people in your life and the people you meet. I pray you’re being loved well. I’m glad to hear that people are showing love, kindness and care towards you. I’m looking forward to whatever follow up videos are to come.
@Shamira Taylor I agree Shamira. Jesus gives us the power to choose and knows every decision we will make. Life is a journey and we should always choose to grow and evolve as human beings. Joe makes his own decisions according to his convictions and shouldn’t be judged for that just because it’s not what others deem “the right choice”. I pray this new channel will be a safe space for Joe first and foremost as well as being a safe space for others to share vulnerably about their own journey and experiences.
@Shamira Taylor Same sis lol
Hi @TheycallMeTrice , are you a Christian ?
@@aimeemideso1294 I am.
It was kind and generous of you to share your process of why you left Christianity. For those who began following you while you were a Christian, it was great to get closure regarding what led to your decision. I was hoping you would release a video like this someday. When you made the announcement it did shock me however this journey is challenging, Christian or otherwise. You are loved in Jesus name.😊
As you deconstruct, relearn, unlearn. I pray you come around full circle. Not into the arms of Christianity or the church. But into the arms of Jesus. I pray you Godspeed. I don't judger you. I believe its important to ask question. I care more about your soul than your gifts. I just want to see you in heaven with. We love you and wish you the absolute best.
when i first came to Christ everything changed for me, and i was completely drawn to your vulnerability as a Christian. the shock and surprise came from a place where you were someone who felt like a friend, i hope in someway God can remind you of who He is. i dont think theres a Christian without a story, without being brought to the pits of themselves and finally seeing God for who He really is. Its not easy journey, not even close. but the difference between life then and now, is i finally have a reason to keep fighting. May you get that reason back. i dont think that for many of us, you were just content, you are a person and a brother and we're still praying for you
well i do have a reason to keep fighting. definitely not the same as it was but this reason is better for me.
Hey Joe, so glad to hear from you again. I became a Christian in 2017 and still am to this day. Your videos back in the day really encouraged me and I really missed them :) After hearing about the things you went through and the struggles with faith you had, all I can say is I'm sorry you had to go through all that. But I'm also happy that you found yourself at the end of the day. It took courage to move from one point of your life to the next and that's something admirable regardless of what it is. Keep going with your music career! As a music producer, I understand how tough it can be, but it's definitely worth pursuing! I will keep you in my prayers and hope everything works out in the future! - Rui
"You do not have to know where you're going, to know that you should not stay." A lyric.
“You don’t have to know where you’re going to know that you should not stay.” Thank you for those words. It’s been extremely difficult finding myself outside of faith. But the thought that I can be on the journey to figure out who I am without knowing where I’ll end up… it’s freeing.
I'll never forget your ChaseGod webisodes bro, ALL OF THEM. I have a few saved locally and some of your vlogs saved to my phone locally even though you've taken them down. They are anointed in my opinion, I gained a lot of from them. I know you are going through a lot right now with your understanding of God and things that of that nature, but I am still appreciative of you and all the hard work you've put forth over the years. Thank you Joe, much love and blessings on your everyday journey.
Thank you for this, Joe. I have been on my deconstruction journey and leave of faith for about 8 months, but it started way before that and can’t be oversimplified like you said. I have not told most of my family about it yet; I’m still building up the courage. I first found your channel as a fellow doubter and still relate to your journey. Thank you for sharing with us, the way you articulate yourself and the way you take time to talk about things is much appreciated.
I remember watching you when I walked away from God, but I had to come to terms with myself and go back to him now I feel immense peace. first off I’m not writing this to judge you but to show some love and compassion. I respect you being open and transparent with us. I’m not subscribed but this is my second time seeing your video on my feed. Just wanted to let you know that God loves you and is remorseful. You have heard all of this before but I truly do care for you and I hope you come back to him, he’ll never stop waiting for you. All love❤
As someone who found you through your Christian content and am still a Christian, i really appreciate everything you have to say. I speak for a lot of us in this, we really like you because of who you are and have genuine care for you as a person not just because you were a Christian, but simply because you are you. Your thoughts on apologetics are so insightful and interesting. Just appreciate this honestly and this conversation.
I discovered you back in 2016 and I love EVERY piece of CONTENT you've ever put out. I'd just like to say, thank you Joe for being you. I've always felt your authenticity throughout the years. It's no different now. God is working, even now, even here, always. This was such a vulnerable video. Thank you Joe!
Thank you for speaking out!!! I feel as a Christian I need to hear different perspectives so I can be sensitive to different journeys. We must listen more than we speak. So thank you so much Joseph Solomon for your bravery and soberness even in an unsettled journey.
So many people have died not living in their truth or being as vulnerable/ authentic as you are being. I’ve watched and loved your videos for years. No matter what your beliefs are, I appreciate you sharing your gifts with us.
What is truth?
from chase God tv til now, still genuine and authentic. we love you Joe. thanks for sharing
🙏🏽
Joe, I appreciate you sharing your journey. As a Christian, a lot of us have struggled with Christianity. You are just strong/brave enough to share it and take a stand. I believe that you are doing exactly what you should be doing. ❤️
Even listening to this, I can feel the weight of the emotions. It's not an easy thing to go through and this video must also have been tough to record and post...I can't imagine. Thank you for sharing, Joe. I have loads of things to think about/ reflect on from this, and I'm looking forward to more videos. ever learning & still listening :)
I really appreciate your honesty. I have currently come to terms with or had the realisation or accepted 😄 "I am human, having a human experience "...and woah, it has helped alot!!!
humbling, maybe even frustration but also offers peace.
Crazy how your humility still radiates to this day. I am humbled!!! I am also having massive Cognitive Dissonance around the church
Hi Joe :) you may not see this, but i just want to thank you for your vulnerability
I resonated so much with this video because of how relatable it is to me. I grew up in the faith myself and always felt myself thirsting for knowledge of the Word and of the Christian God. I walked away from the faith myself in 2018, and it wasn’t as easy as people think it is.
I wanted to go to theological school! Learn Hebrew, travel to the lands where Christianity originated; all of it.
It was the overwhelming amount of contradictions in the faith, the division of denominations of Christianity, and the overall circular reasoning the teachings held that finally had me walk away even despite wanting to hold on for so long.
Anyways, I’m looking forward to hearing you share your journey and even if you don’t, that’s okay too. Your vulnerability thus far has been refreshing, impactful and I do hope you work towards giving up your “cross” one step at a time, one day at a time.
Joe you don't only have gifts, you are the gift. Your very presence is a blessing in itself.Thank you for everything you are.
Thank you, Joe!
This felt like sitting across the table from you, within a safe space to be. I hope in this comment section you will find safety and appreciation for yourself. Not safety in the sense of "Hey, open up more now", but in a believing and gentle audience.
I can only speak for myself when I say I really do care about you as a person and I am here to stay because there really are no easy answers to the complexities of life and your thoughts and well thought through words and your art, music, podcast and photography, have been healing to many, including me.
I am complexly traumatized from (mostly) abuse through family. Found steady ground in Christianity when my parents divorced, but been accompanied by doubts and questions through years of estrangement, brokenness and then sickness caused by the abuse.
Complex PTSD having shattered all I believed in like I never expected possible during the past 5 years.
I, too, have been in therapy (specialized on trauma) since 2019. And last month I felt relieved for the first time after a session.
I don't know if I'll ever go back to believing in a good God who takes action upon his people calling. ATM I don't think so... and that's okay because it's more complex than want or will or prayer or whatever easy answers there are to my experience of life.
Thank you for making space for me.
Thanks for showing you are human. We all go through these thoughts and don't want to talk about it. I struggled with belief so much until recently. I kept praying for God to increase my faith past understanding. He did it through his presence. Truly lifechanging. We have to shed the worldy church view for sure. It starts there.
Joe I appreciate you sharing your journey with us. It means so much. I can say I was and am still very heartbroken to know that you decided to walk away from the faith. But in all this, I still appreciate God for the impact you’ve had on the Christian community and believe it or not, even still now. Your heart is so big for others and you can see it all here. There is so much Jesus all over you and I don’t know that this is the end of the journey because even as you speak, there is so much healing and love coming from your heart. I pray that all is well with you as you continue in this journey. Love you Jo ❤️❤️❤️ You’re a very special person to this planet no matter what.
I support because I genuinely like you. I came in the early "Chase God" era and really was more drawn to your music and your presence. The content has changed but you're are still that humble, gentle (seems so) well raised man. Proud of you no matter what you decide.
I’ll speak for myself (although I see a lot of commonalities in your comments) You are more than a piece of content. I think I first found you via flights and feelings when you were still creating it. I found the essence of who you are, to come through what you shared, both in content and style. You’re a poet through and through and I admire your unwavering integrity in all things you do and so transparently share. The tension of the divide between faith and doubt within you is palpable and I’m glad you found yourself and your peace more important than religion. (And I believe god is, too) As someone who has struggled w depression and suicidal ideation myself, I know how critical it is to protect your peace at whatever cost. I came and I stayed for the relatable transparent shares, so beautifully and poetically curated. But I fell in love with all the music because just like in your podcast or vlogs, you lay it all out for us. You pour your soul into everything you do, because that’s the only way some of us know how to exist and create. I just want you to know you are appreciated for sharing yourself. Even in your public processing of this experience, you help others of us not feel alone in our unique journeys. 💜🙏🏽
Joseph I give you props man! It’s never an easy thing to do to go through a major life change. Stay true to you always and keep shining bright! 🔥
Joe I've been watching your series since 2015. I see you closer to God than ever before && I don't even believe in God (at least not the Christian narrative). Through your humanness, i see the divine in you. it's in your transparency and the way you communicate the human experience. The way you articulate the battle of doubt and explaining the WANT that every person desires. You're right; We all desire God and yet our efforts to understand God only baffles us. You're a person who I believe loves the people of this world and that does not want to limit that love only to a specific religious group. Your love is only expanding. thank you for sharing your story. it definitely impacted a lot of us. blessings to you and your fam always. Major Alan Watts, Buddha, Jesus, Socrates vibes from you! Da' Vinci too haha!!
Thank you Joe, I was among the curious crowd on twitter and I must say you are so perceptive and aware about what peoples desires could be from you during a very challenging experience. You are also very humble to explain and give these people insight and cover all the possible questions they may have into such a big personal experience that is not easily conveyed in one conversation/videk you did so well to articulate your feelings and logic. Thank you. Tamara
I’m listening to you for the first time. Found it difficult at first but can’t stop listening. I have doubts as a Christian, have left the church but have come back and am holding on to my belief in Jesus and God. I do believe in the bible but I know the bible can be a huge stumbling block! It can turn you on but it can turn you off. For me, right now, wallowing with depression and anxiety with an Ecclesiastics look on life (after watching my dying Christian mum fight to stay alive) the bible and believing that God exists gives me meaning and purpose. Keep searching and keep talking, don’t give up. Be honest and don’t worry what we Christians say. Work it out.. with love x
What I’ve learned about guilt and shame for myself is, that has been more pressed into me from people than God or even the faith itself. I destroy and beat up myself but God never does. Even just looking at the life of Jesus, he shames no one. My guilt and shame comes from my fear of rejection, as well my desire to do everything right and be loved. Truth is I’m loved right now regardless, I’m not perfect and I don’t have to be.
fully agree with the first two sentences. one could argue the life of jesus doesn’t offer shame, but i’d argue the cross of jesus does. in christian religion, the bloody cross of christ is the symbol of your sins hanging publicly like a dirty tampon (kinda using paul’s analogy, not mine.) the cross should make christian’s say “look what jesus had to do because of me”. he was openly shamed in your place. your shame doesn’t go away, it’s just displaced. the literal use of a scapegoat is just that.
just pointing out the difference, is all. within christianity, shame and guilt is sort of a requirement. vs outside of that type of faith, it is very much an optional interface.
this comment is going in so many directions. all of which miss my point, so i’ll just check out here.
@@flightsfeelings Do you think there is a difference between shame and conviction? Or even shame and guilt?
@@Jkila25 the three are all closely related but different.
Thoughtful & insightful as it's been over the years. ❤️💐🙏🏽
Life can be sometimes, an uncertain & confusing journey, it's beautiful therefore, to have a space which offers grace & insight as we show up for each human experience & reality...
Listening to your podcast in the past, and now to this video has been a constant reminder in my journey that it's okay...it was okay to ask questions, it was okay to leave, I may not have all the answers right now, but it's okay to show up for today, to be present for what is happening today and trust that life gets clearer with time.
I still connect to this channel because because that same kind person you were before you still are. So glad you are still friends with some friends that you worked with in that former space. I always wondered about that. ❤ This video was really good! I watched the whole thing. . I loved reading comments from the Christians like me who still love you and what you do. Watching so many people tear you down was devastating for me.
We are completely different people but I’ve always admired you for your thought process and creativity. It always been a source of inspiration in my own journey.
risika thank you! very different but still both humans.
Thank you Joe, for sharing your human experience and helping us process our own.
Didn't know what to expect from this video. but one thing I didn't expect was relating to it so deeply and how much this spoke to where I find myself right now in life. Thanks for being you Joe.
Very interesting and refreshing insight as always, your intelligence and thoughtfulness have obviously remained. God's gifts are truly without repentance. All the best to you brother, may you find truth.
The "they never had faith to begin with" hurts. do you know how much, I want this? I pray, cry, fast and still nothing. Isn't God the one who give faith? Maybe he didn't give it to me yet. Forget about the people that's having a hard time right now with their faith. What are you doing with yours?
“I think it makes their life easier to
simplify my life”….💯
There are many things that I appreciate about you Joe, one of the most apparent is your desire to be authentic in your thought, inquiry and your validation of the human experience. People throw around the phrase "thought leader" way too often imo but I can honestly say that you model true authenticity in a way that most people are afraid too. Tbh it hurt to see you suffer through your period of doubt only because I understand how frustrating it can be to want to understand something that just isn't making sense. I appreciate you so much and wish you well on your journey! ❤
You’re walking and working it out. That’s what I hear. Much love and peace to you ❤
Thank you for your vulnerability. I remember discovering you through PIA and have always appreciated and loved your honesty and authenticity. When you first started your Flights & Feelings podcast, I would wait patiently for your episodes to drop and listen immediately. I would think "wow, the beauty of this man's vulnerability, wisdom, dignity, and grace." When you posted on instagram about leaving the Christian faith, I remember feeling so heartbroken. Not exactly by your leaving, but by the response of other "Christians" and the lack of compassion, care, and curiosity. The weight and burden you carried in having to make this public announcement to more than just family and friends. We live in such a "cancel culture" and it's unfair, as you mentioned, to oversimplify the human experience, behavior, decisions, and actions for our own comfort. The way people assess the lives of those who have a platform and choose to share their journey through one singular lens is unfair. This walk through life this is a tough one and we are meant to sit in the discomfort and question/challenge the narratives that be. That's what I've always appreciated about you. We are constantly evolving as the world around us is and I'm thankful for you sharing your constant evolution and growth when you really don't have to at all. What you have given and continue to give this world, is beautiful, raw, and a blessing. You are gifted beyond words and are still impacting lives. No matter where you land in whatever season, I will forever be a fan. A fan of your creativity, journey, passion, evolution and humanity. Thanks Joe 🤍
A year ago I looked at your deconversion with disrespect, disappointment and pity.
Now you’re part of why I don’t feel as alone and lost in the journey I ended up taking myself. I’m sorry, and thank you.
wow. thanks for this comment Louay. i had to keep in mind people like you when i was frustrated with the responses (not saying you were one of the people who vocalized their opinion). but i know how i felt a few years ago when people walked away, and how i may have responded in my heart (i never publicized). and now some of those same people, i was looking to for advice and empathy. i think fear may make a lot of people respond to me negatively. deep down they may be afraid their fate will be the same, and so maybe their disdain for me makes them feel more on the holy side. righteous indignation. but anyways, without getting wordy, i hope you'll find some safe space on this side. thanks for responding.
@@flightsfeelings thank you for taking the time to respond Joe. I never vocalised it either, and it didn’t last very long. The respect and empathy I had built for you over the years made it difficult to treat it like all the other deconversions I’d react to.
But the “…what if I’m the wrong one?” thought was too scary to accept, until later that year. It might’ve led to some envy…instead of the “drowning in sin, bitter, and meaningless” scenario I was conditioned to expect, you just seemed…free. Free from the relentless doubts and confusion, free to connect with who YOU are, putting out even more of your creative potential (it’s funny, during that time I remember thinking “STOP MAKING BEAUTIFUL MUSIC YOU’RE MAKING IT HARDER TO IGNORE YOU”)
Maybe I wished for the same, but I couldn’t have imagined doing so and facing the collapse of my worldview, identity and the ideal of my (very religious) family and community…so disdain was easier.
Anyway, it’s been a wild year…bit surreal even typing this out. Very few people know yet and I might have to delete this soon. But I’d love to chat more about it with you. Either way, just seeing you respond makes me feel a bit more ok. Thank you.
12:05 you are so much more than Christianity. Outside of your wisdom and gifts, it’s your character that resonated with me most and it’s why I still support. There’s always been a genuineness I have felt from your videos, regardless of the content of the video itself. Keep being you.
good to see you back Joseph.
video recommendation: books I'm reading 2022.
Also I still have gripe with you for deleting that Grace alone cover.
Thank you Joe for being humble and transparent about your experience. Still sticking around because I love the content, also interested in your mindset and experience. Would love to hear the nit and gritty of what led you out, or any critiques. I feel those truly help others be challenged and grow. So I’m here for it Joe, love you man. God Bless you bro.
thanks for hanging around!
podcasts are phone calls and videos are FaceTime. enjoy this perspective and hearing your thought process, even if we differ. bless.
It’s refreshing that regardless of the change you felt necessary to make, you exude kindness, humility, and love. I don’t understand the intricate details, & it’s not necessary for me to understand it all, I am enjoying your perspective on what you choose to share.
Beautifully stated… I’m in a similar space and you’ve put language to several of the “feelings” I’ve had for awhile.. thank you. Godspeed
I see that therapy on you my nigga. It looks good on you. Keep on healing. Experience the fullness of your life and live with no regrets, even if it’s outside the faith. The best of us will give support and safety for whatever part of your journey
I have to say this I love you, right from the first day I watch your chase...I have been confused and overwhelmed a lot of times and also asking questions, also have personal shame and guilty too...I really kinder relate with you but God really knew and understand you better even much than you do...💯 You still belong to Christ Jesus... that's it!
The last minute and 10 seconds of this video resonated deeply in my soul. This journey that I've been on for the past 3 years has been exhausting and lonely. Everyone in my life expects me to be strong 24/7, and completely disregards my feelings and emotions. Simply hearing the words, "you're human" woke me up from this robotic state, and reminded me that it's ok to feel, to make mistakes, and to not have it all figured out - regardless of what others may think or say. Wow... Thank you Joe!
Joseph! Your videos, thoughts, ideas, poetry, and music has always inspired me. I found you as ChaseGodTV. Those videos helped provide context in the beginning of my faith journey. I’ve always seen you as such a thought leader. Well studied and well spoken.
It’s true, there are plenty of us who will continue to support you for the sake of supporting a genuine, thoughtful, talented man. Thank you for continuing to create. It’s great to hear your thoughts and perspectives again, even if they differ from mine.
I wish nothing but the best for you on your journey. 🥂
thank you Chende!
I’m glad you’re expressing yourself Solomon. I agree with how you are defining the want and desire of faith for yourself at the time.
I really can’t come to understand why we as Christians judge others’ desire for God. And I don’t know who came up with the idea that if someone leave the faith that they didn’t have a desire for God in the first place. That is such a myth because we cannot judge one’s walk with God. Most of us have had (and still have) an emotional connection with God. And as we experience life, we may have unanswered questions or grow out of pursuing the faith and see God through a different perspective that works for us. Our walks with God are a GENUINE relationship with God whether we are in the faith or not. We are still God’s creation and nobody can judge that.
I have just returned to Christ after leaving the Catholic church just before going to college years ago. When I left my faith in Christ behind, I had a lot of the same questions and doubts as you, mostly because my political beliefs and my personality were not seen as “Christian” to other people in the church. I felt that if the Christian church was so corrupt and other Christians seemed to be so judgmental and hateful, then perhaps everything I thought about Jesus was wrong too.
Although I respect and understand where you’re at, I do want to say that it took me walking away from my the church and going through the world on my own to realize that the true spirit of God and Christ is so far removed from most modern day Christian organizations. I needed to leave those groups behind to build a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus and with The Father in the spirit. Your relationship with God and with Jesus is totally personal to you. Each of us has our own journey to walk, and no one has the right to judge where you are in your walk. It’s brave of you to be open and honest about where you’re at, and although it’s none of my business, I do pray that you will come to develop your own spiritual relationship with the Lord in time.
Joe, much respect for your genuine honesty and care about this topic. Honestly you don’t owe anyone an explanation or answer but the fact that you are sharing your beliefs says a lot about your heart. Mad respect
Hey Joe! What you shared at 36:35 reminds me of the Johari Window concept. Whenever I’ve used it with clients or in my own reflections I add “the person you think you should be”. That’s where many of us struggle. Especially when “who we think we should be” doesn’t align with who we WANT to be.
Thanks for sharing your journey/letting us “hear you think” 💫
Thank you for sharing this technique ❤
@@MsMizz1 you’re most welcome. 🙏🏽
Hi again. So I watched the Q1 video before this. As I’m listening to you say there are 3 versions of our selves. I’m like well actually 4 (the person you want to become) then you said.
Definitely resonating with a lot of what you are saying. 💫
Constantly evolving to become the version that want to be and presenting it to the world to receive that version.
I had this subconscious thought of not being good enough from experiences from childhood but I believe from the narrative in the Christian community of being a sinner and we are all imperfect people etc.
I didn’t realize until after going through therapy and forming my own view on life that it was hindering how I wanted to authentically wanted to present my self to the world.
So good. Finding some much truth from your work. Definitely grateful for you
I’ll always be a supporter Joe❤️🇵🇷
You should do a video on what kind of music you’re into and what artists inspire you
All of this was so insightful. I’ve had my struggles with Christianity, and ended leaving western Christianity (particularly American Protestantism). I found more fulfillment in Ethiopian Orthodoxy. I’ve learned so much from you in the past and am looking forward to learning more from you.
This is interesting! Would love to discuss more about your views and experience with this.
@@zyleymacruz333 Sure! It’s been a great experience so far.
Joeeeee🤞🏾 i remember finding your podcast on Spotify. I’ve always been Christian but didn’t realize you were till a few weeks before your announcement 😅. Apologetics is one of the few things in the Christian faith I tried to stay away from. Not because I don’t know but I’ve seen the way people who are deep just treat people like punching bags.
But I was shocked at the announcement but somethings are necessary to find our way. It’s hard especially in your predicament but from your old videos/ podcast I can tell you’re surrounded by some amazing people. So I hope they can continue to guide you. It’s a hard process but wising you the best 🤍
Found you as a singer, ended up being my mentor. Love you as a person man and will continue to support you along your creative journey ❤💪🏼
Next person to say this…but I was shocked with the news as well but not surprised because I felt that you always said many of the things I felt as a Christian struggling with doubt and though you say you aren’t a Christian anymore I can still relate to the same way you share your journey now!
The 3 maybe even 4 dimensional thing! not only does it affect my life as a Christian but also how/what I post online and what I tell some people and not others, my choice of clothing, and so much more… Anyway I think it’s also so easy for people to nitpick everything especially with social media and the need of constantly being right in the present moment but how do you ever really know without the journey.
I could say a lot more but keep doing what you’re doing.
I love to hear you speak your truth so please whenever you feel called to do, don’t hesitate to share another video 😁There’s so much power in voicing these types of opinions so you’re truly appreciated!🤍
I chose to watch this instead of Netflix so…. says a lot
Glad I got to hear your heart in this video. Back in the day, at some point while watching your ChaseGodTV webisodes, I remember telling a friend “Man, I’d really love to study and talk about the Bible with Joe. Like he’s a thinker…the type that wrestles with the text because he genuinely wants to understand. I still don’t know too many people like this. You once mentioned that a friend told you that “You’re gonna be ok.” and by God’s grace and every breathe you’re given, you will. Thanks for being open to share where you currently are in life’s journey. Hoping that it doesn’t become yet another weight you have to bear to keep us updated and that you’ll process where you in the beauty of solitude and around love that delights in the truth. Salvation, being born of the Spirit, is a mystery that those within and outside of the Christian faith can’t fully articulate through our human experiences. But like the old hymn says “we'll understand it better by and by…”
You just don't know what your content means to me as I'm going through a similar journey. I know it can be hard to talk about this because people will present to you a just simple 'solution of going back to being religious as the thing that solves all the issues in the world. Thank you for having the courage to publicly talk about this and processing it with us, you are really making me feel like I'm not alone and that there's someone who understands
I remember way back in the day when you were recording your videos in that room with the red wall; there was a video about listening to secular music and you made the comparison of sitting with your wife listening to a new Usher song that was like "I just cheated on my wife, and she don't gotta know". I thought that was pretty funny, and clearly it's stuck with me however-many years on. So there's a part of my brain that's still like "wow Joseph Solomon - he's a celebrity!", but I'm trying to push back on that attitude in my life because people are people, and whether they're in my life or on my phone screen they deserve to be treated as such. Granted, the exclusively on-screen nature of how I see you makes that harder, but viewing you as a person means valuing you as more than just someone who says the things I like to hear. So yeah, I hope that's encouraging. As ever thanks for the humility and thoughtfulness.
Thank you Joe, I’ve been going thru my own deconstruction for sometime and all of your content this past year has been extremely encouraging. Looking forward to more of everything!
I think the Cross is a laundry room and a departure lounge. It also symbolises humanity in its current state, as well as victory over human conditions.
This is an interesting journey - what a question to have asked of you!? We're grateful to participate.
I don’t know if I’m the only one that cried during this video but I cried. The first video I saw of yours was a video about struggling with pornography long long ago and as a young teen girl I felt heard/ seen. You were the first Christian I had “met” that was honest, vulnerable, shared truth without judgement, you were loving, and genuine. Even without the label of Christianity I find you to be the same. In this video you have shared the same layers of yourself that I have come to know. I appreciate you. I am grateful. I have struggled too in many ways with the faith and in some ways I think people believe it’s easy to stay near the cross when the cross has caused the pain you have now. I’m glad you are on your journey. I pray you find your destination or some semblance of. You are loved,
Grace and Peace
For me as a “follower”, I’ve long had to let go of the image of the person I knew you to be in the very short and small setting in which we interacted; and I think that would help a lot of other people as well. The thing that really hit me in this video was your statement about the cross, and if it’s not Jesus up there, who should it be? And in the sense of christianity, it shouldn’t be anyone. Jesus got down bc it was finished. Anyhow, there’s so much that could be said, but any Christian who says they haven’t struggled with faith, doubt, reading the word but not seeing it manifest in reality is a liar.
As someone who decided to formerly leave the religion last year I did it when I had the power to. At first I gave it my best shot to ensure it wasn't something I was turning away from because of others, but that it was 100% for myself. On the outside though, it didn't look like that to others. I feel better now. It was the best choice for me. I also live and think in grays so I was a "problem" there 😅
Within my own deconstruction and building of faith I've learned that there is no defining end to either. This is exhausting and gives room to gaslighters/false teachers. that's why Hebrews 11:6 gives me strength to have courage to believe. I don't have all the answers and I won't have all the answers. I am not perfect and I will never be perfect. My faith in Christ is not built on certainty neither perfection rather faith itself. Faith is the paradox I accept despite its complexities and defiance of my human psyche. No wonder without it it is impossible to please a God who's ways and thoughts are above my own. Grace and peace to everyone.
This journey as a human is beautiful and awful all at once. This past year I’ve understood just how much clenched hands don’t receive and the wisdom, bravery, trust and exhaustion it takes to let broken things break. I see you. I understand.
Hey Joe, we met YEARS ago back at Genesis in TX, not sure if you remember. But we met at a time when I had just returned from some overseas trips and was questioning the validity of missions and I mostly kept it to myself. I have followed your public journey and in all of your seasons and I have always appreciated your honesty and the transparency in everything you have shared whether it was your music, faith, poetry, or even a simple conversation. Thanks for letting us in on these moments and bringing conversation around what is an extremely difficult, emotionally charged, often lonely and devastating journey for those who go through it. Wishing continued peace and clarity on your journey.
Thank you for being so candid with your own experience with religion. It’s definitely hard to hear you were in a toxic relationship with Christianity. I’ve seen many folks go through that same dynamic of a shame/guilt driven relationship with Jesus. It’s interesting, because I’m only speaking from my experience when I say my relationship with Jesus hasn’t been driven by guilt and shame; it has driven by my own humanity. I am someone who was born and raised in the church but felt suffocated. Just like what you said, if the relationship is toxic, run. I tried to run from God, but found it was possible to be in a healthy relationship with Him. There’s many more layers to my experiences with religion and I could talk about this for hours…but this is the comment section lol
Oh wow I'm a christian but I feel you. I know you really loved God. I struggled with organised Christianity and Christians but I've been very blessed to be pursued and encountered by God's love personally... Without it I would most likely left the faith. Without Jesus love pursuing me hard I really would have left the faith. I am sorry if you didn't have a personal encounter. Thanks for sharing your journey with us...honestly we Christians need to be open to understand
I totally identify with your experience. I don't know how anyone can remain in orthodox Christian faith for the long term without a personal and supernatural encounter with the love and transformation of Christ. That's really the core evidence and reassurance of faith (via the Holy Spirit) for most believers (I can't speak for all I guess?) - concrete personal experience with the presence and love of God. If Joe has never had that I have to commend him for sticking with Christianity for as long as he did, to be honest. Sidenote: So, this is why I think the elevation of the Bible as the foundation of Christian faith is dangerously misguided. It's the death and resurrection of Christ that's the foundation and source of Christian faith. The collection of scriptures we know as the Bible testify of Christ, but they are not the source of faith in Him. Without personal encounters with the transforming power of Christ's death and resurrection in your life, the Bible alone cannot prop up faith.
@@dee6554 hmmm challenging thought but very very true
Hey brother, I truly do honor your honesty. Christianity can be a idol, and the Christian can be an idol, and the cross can be an idol that distort our understanding of immortality. In your journey I hope you find your Creator. Blessings.
Your comment section is so irkyyyyyy. 😭 Christians watched this and didn’t listen to a thing you said. Your point about oversimplification is spot on. It’s never for your benefit it’s always for the other persons sanity. I stopped liking apologetics back when I realized that as Christians we just couldn’t say “I don’t know” it’s the arrogance that we have the absolute truth and know all like we are God. God knows all, we do not but most of us believe we do. Praying that you receive a lot more love in this journey and you meet a lot of dope people and that Christians who don’t get it let it go and stop commenting. 😂
Thank you for this. Creatively and spiritually you were one of my role models so I was deeply shocked and hurt when you opened up about where you were at. And I acknowledge the temptation to oversimplify your experience. It's much easier to see your rejection of Christianity as an indictment on yourself instead of an indictment of Christianity and the church. After listening to you I know for sure that delving into the latter is more constructive and in general I believe if anything needs to be scrutinized its God, since only the truth can stand the test of scrutiny. So excited to hear more on your journey as you continue to share, I think there's something we can all learn from it.
This trim is crazy clean. 🙏🏿
Appreciate that
Joe, you are dope man. So much of your authenticity has helped me just be myself. I’m thankful for you and definitely love watching your journey 🪂
Hey Joe💗
Thank you for allowing us into such a vulnerable journey. Im watching you with care and tenderness. I am curious to know your thoughts on spiritual warfare/strongholds/deliverence as it relates to you and your experience with faith & doubt. Looking forward to future content you put out. Love and peace.
I think as a Christian one of the biggest challenges I have is forgetting that I serve someone who isn’t created. The minute I think in terms of needing answers For everything I then place myself in his seat. That would then make him less God and him subject to me. Where there is no self-satisfying intellectual answer to my question trust and faith come into play. Faith requires not knowing. If I was all-knowing and had all the answers that would make the creator less relevant. Faith will fail where intellect stops? In that case, did faith exist? Intellect in itself can indeed become a hurdle to faith. Respect your honesty with your struggle with the Christian faith. That takes pride and humility if they can coexist. LOL. Our finite knowing vs God’s infinite knowing will keep us in search of answers.
"How could we drink up the sea? Who gave us the sponge to wipe away the entire horizon? What were we doing when we unchained this earth from its sun? Whither is it moving now? Whither are we moving? Away from all suns? Are we not plunging continually? Backward, sideward, forward, in all directions? Is there still any up or down? Are we not straying, as through an infinite nothing?...What water is there for us to clean ourselves? What festivals of atonement, what sacred games shall we have to invent?"
I appreciate you Joe. I've had similar thoughts on some things you spoke on. When you talked about Christian apologetics as gaslighting, I never actually labeled it that way. Certainly felt it at times.
Be well ✈️
Joe,
I completely understand where you are. I was in this place of the doubt for years simply because I had questions that no one could answer, I wanted to know God and no one permitted me to have to space to question God and religious behavior. My questions were seen as me disrespecting God or disrespecting culture. So, I decided to move away from all of it and I was a whole PK!! LOL . Anywho, the Christian space is challenging for those who just have questions and want to know... or are struggling with believing in God and the existence of God... or religion...
My faith started to somewhat improve when I took theology classes ( which I am assuming you do also).. so my question was somewhat answered.... but I still struggled with faith due to some deep and very valid questions I wanted to be answered... I continued to search and study but it was not enough for me... I had the head knowledge but ... I was not convinced...
This part of my life did end eventually and that is another story for a different day.. but you're at a very good space... and so I understand where you are.. I hear where you are... and I there is no shame in where you are in your life...
I pray your journey leads you to where you want it to be
It's beautiful to hear your transparency during your transition...while I'm still in the faith and content, there are undeniable things that connect the human experience that will evoke empathy and love for journeys that may differ than your own!
The 4 persons of identity…so true! I’ve experienced this as well. It’s a constant tug of war until you surrender to one of them.
I wonder if your prayers for faith are being answered right now. I have a good feeling about your journey. Can’t wait to see what’s in store for you next
Sometimes we must wonder to return! I echo your sentiments.
Great conversation. This is so good. Lol my early journey of being saved I found you. I could see a transition in you but life always breeds a beautiful journey. I pray you find your way.
I'm reading the comments and my question is "what about eternity?"
Im nauseous with anxiety thinking about this. I was a Christian because I loved God but now I just don't wanna go to hell. I love and respect Joe btw
Thanks for sharing this Joe! I’m glad you've found freedom. I can't wait to hear more about it.
Hey Joe! I just wanted to let you know that I sincerely appreciate your voice and insight. I am going through everything you’ve mentioned and the weight can be heavy at times. Being so sure of things one day and then having other days where doubt, anxiety, guilt and other heavy feelings flood in. Therapy has been an amazing outlet, but all of this is just so complex that I’ve accepted that my transition out of Christianity will take TIME to unpack. I’ve been in the Christian space for 25 years (my entire life), and my girlfriend always reminds me that I have to give myself time on the other side to unlearn, re-learn, unpack, heal, cry, be upset, and all of the other emotions that come with transitions into a new way of thinking and life. All in all I really just want you to be okay and to keep taking life one day at a time. I can sense the heaviness of this for you because I relate to that feeling. So glad you’re taking your time and letting yourself experience this because you’re not alone and I see you. I’ve never commented before but really want you to know that I’ve thought about you and your well being a lot over the last year and just genuinely want you to know that there are people out here rooting for you. Love you man and keep taking care of yourself. You deserve happiness, peace, and much more no matter what your next steps are. Sorry for the long book! Lol it’s a lot here to talk about! All love from Indianapolis, IN! ❤
P.S. Also would you ever get a Patreon again?? I came across your content not too long after you stopped having one and always wondered if you’d start it back up again! I’d support in a heartbeat if you ever did!!!
Thanks for sharing. You really don’t have too but this in depth conversation is necessary.
I found chaseGodtv, one of the times I struggled in my faith. In undergrad 2015, seeing a young black Man express his faith with vulnerability and depth. You are a content creator and a good one. Any sect you decided to be in, you experience some level of success.
Your videos helped me choose Christianity even though I was raised Christian but I related to your vulnerability and I know I want to be that for others. I went to seminary, still there to go deeper.
Your voice is necessary. Thanks for opening up this way, you really don't have any obligation to do this and put yourself out this way.
you know it’s funny…i was one of the people who just couldn’t understand why you couldn’t just let it go…all the negative reactions you reacted to versus the more accepting…. even to the point that it cost me a genuine community with you…and i’ll be honest it made me so frustrated with you…not because of the decision you made to leave christianity…but because i couldn’t understand why you couldn’t just ignore all the backlash and move forward…but maybe that was me just not wanting you to go through the pain of others opinions of you…or maybe i was projecting my own ways and how i operate onto you. and for that i apologize. listening to the comparison to a divorced person really made a lot of sense. i’m glad you see you are doing well and that you are able to share where you are currently…even in these small increments…sending love your way💜✈️
This was a long video but I still have so many questions because I guess there's so much that could be said but not all at once...thanks for your honesty...again I hope you find what you are looking for...
I’ve been watching since chaseGodTv to here. Thank you for staying true to yourself Joe 💜