Deconstructing Language to Reconstruct our Faith – Part 4

In this fourth episode of the No More Silos series, Dr. Erika Santiago continues to explore the profound impact that language has on shaping our outlook on life, religion, and faith. This conversation delves deeper into the power of language in both reconstructing and deconstructing faith, and how the words we use when questioning our beliefs directly influence the answers we receive.

Key Topics:

• How the language we use shapes our understanding of faith and the outcomes of our spiritual inquiries
• Are the questions we ask about faith framed adequately to find the answers we seek?
• The often-overlooked cultural impact of the African American theological tradition within mainstream theological academic standards
• The importance of re-evaluating long-held beliefs, such as the use of the word “helpmeet” in Christian communities
• A formal definition of language is provided, highlighting its critical role in faith and life
• Exploring the dynamic between how language influences culture and, conversely, how culture influences language

Discussion Points:

• Are theological frameworks questioning the right things? How is mainstream theology overlooking culturally rich perspectives, such as those from the African American tradition?
• The need for Christian communities to challenge the use of certain terms that have been misinterpreted or misused, especially those that shape our understanding of relationships and roles.
• Dr. Santiago challenges listeners to think critically about the power of words in constructing our theological narratives and worldviews.

Important Questions:

• How do the words we use in framing our spiritual questions impact the kinds of answers we’re open to receiving?
• What impact does culture have on shaping the theological words we adopt, and how does language, in turn, shape culture?

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as Dr. Santiago examines the symbiotic relationship between language, culture, and faith, encouraging listeners to reassess their understanding of commonly used theological terms and cultural assumptions.

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