Real! Simple. Religion

In this episode Ed talks about his hopes for Simplifying Religion. He hopes this book gives believers a voice, takes back the power from Leadership and gives it to the people, and creates a more helpful dialogue between generations and others who differ.

In this episode Ed wraps up the book by talking about the last two chapters. What if we get a moment of clarity, where all the "stuff" that man has added and messed up falls away and we stand face to face with reality? Ed talks about this concept along with ideas on how we as boomers/millennials can gain a greater understanding of one another as we move forward together.

Ed talks about a conversation with his son that sparked a new way of thinking. Why do we bicker so much, even between groups that claim to believe the same things? In our brokenness, humans have muddied the waters of religion over centuries. Is there a way forward? 

Ed tries to help the Baby Boomers understand what makes the millennials tick. He looks at 5 core “defining values” that seem to set this younger group apart from their parents. Understanding each other better is a great start to dialoging about why we differ.

Ed looks at several themes that are in the Bible and tries to make sense of them. The Garden story, the Arc, the flood.
Dinosaurs and how old the earth is? Was Jonah in the whale 3 whole days and who really cares. Just a few of the items to ponder about.

Ed looks at the concept of Hell that is portrayed in the Bible and talks through the different versions that have been created in religious circles. He tries to explain why we think we need it and how it has been used for evil purposes.

Ed takes on the concept of same-sex attraction in this episode. He does not take the same course as conservative religion has taken over the centuries. No, Ed looks at committed, adult, monogamous same sex couples and asks why this group is not excepted by the church.

Ed goes after a touchy subject in this episode. Does the word of God need to be inerrant or can it be Inspired and powerful. Hold on for an intense ride as we look deep into the origins of what the Bible says.

Ed looks at the tension that is at the center of the battle to keep “free will” in the world of religion. This episode explores the different mind sets that exists in the religious marketplace. Free will or predetermination. Which one is healthier?

Ed looks at how politics and religion have blended together over the last 30 years and the negative effects that has had on the last two generations. Faith can exist separate from religion, but you would not think that if you look at the landscape of today.