Welcome back! In this episode of the DwJ series, Zach and Brian dive into Chapter 5, “Paul Needs a Hug.” They explore how the theology behind "total depravity" has shaped the way many Christians view themselves—and why it might be time to let it go. Through humor, honesty, and deep reflection, they reframe grace as something we don’t have to grovel for and invite listeners to see themselves as already beloved.

• [00:00] – Intro: Why this conversation might ruffle some feathers
• [04:55] – Is Jesus changing God's mind about us… or ours about God?
• [10:25] – “What a wretched man I am”: Was Paul writing doctrine or just having a rough day?
• [14:54] – The Bible is for you, but it wasn’t written to you
• [20:19] – Redefining grace: God doing for us what we can’t do for ourselves
• [24:30] – Do we actually deserve God’s love? Reframing worthiness and gift-giving
• [35:22] – Identity matters: why believing you're beloved changes how you live
• [53:01] – Practicing receptivity: silence, stillness, and sitting in the loving gaze of God

Some Memorable Quotes from the Episode

“What makes you deserving of a gift is the giver’s desire to give it.” – Zach

“We’re not totally depraved. We’re totally loved.” – Zach

“All God asks of us is regular consent to do for us what we can’t do for ourselves.” – Zach

“If your theology isn’t emotionally and psychologically healthy, maybe it’s not good theology.” – Brian

Buy The Book!

• Deconstruct with Jesus by Zachary Bryant

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