Introduction
In a world filled with distractions and temptations, many believers find themselves wrestling with their faith. In a recent podcast, Emmanuel Manishimwe speaks with writer and podcaster Brad Church about his book, “The Strangers’ Conflict,” and the struggles that Christians face in their walk with God.
Understanding the Strangers’ Conflict
Brad Church, who came to faith at the tender age of six, shares his journey of faith and the challenges that led him to write his book. He details how, despite growing up in a Christian household, he struggled with his faith during his teenage years due to a lack of grounding in scripture and real-life examples of faith around him. Brad emphasizes that the lure of worldly recognition and material wealth often pulls believers away from their spiritual path. His own questions about faith and the struggle to maintain a relationship with God prompted him to delve deeper into scripture, seeking answers that he believed could resonate with others facing similar dilemmas.
The Origin of the Title: “The Strangers’ Conflict” speaks to the experience of believers feeling like outsiders in this world. Brad explains that the title is inspired by scripture, particularly Hebrews 11 and Paul’s writings in Philippians, which remind us that as believers, we are citizens of heaven and thus strangers on earth. This perspective frames the conflict believers face as they navigate their spiritual journey in a society often at odds with their values.
Experiencing Distant Relationships with God
Church candidly discusses moments in his life where he felt distant from God, drawing parallels to the parable of the prodigal son. He reflects on how he once wandered far from God, only to discover that the path back is always open. This resonates with listeners who may feel lost, reminding them that God is always waiting for their return, regardless of how far they have strayed.
Understanding Inner Conflict
At the core of the strangers’ conflict is the duality of human nature—our physical and spiritual selves. Brad elaborates on the Genesis account of creation, explaining how each person is created with both a physical body and a spiritual essence. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God, humanity lost its intimate connection with Him, resulting in an ongoing struggle between the desires of the flesh and the call of the Spirit. This inner turmoil is universal among believers, as they contend with their sin nature while striving for spiritual growth.
Finding Solutions to the Conflict
While Brad acknowledges that believers will never completely silence this inner conflict, he offers practical steps to help manage it. He encourages listeners to strengthen their spiritual lives through practices such as prayer, worship, studying scripture, and fellowship with other believers. These activities create space for the Holy Spirit to work in their lives, guiding them toward righteousness.
Key Takeaways
Brad Church’s insights remind us that the journey of faith is filled with challenges, but it is also a path of growth and understanding. The struggles we face do not separate us from God; rather, they provide opportunities for deeper connection and reliance on His grace. As we navigate our own strangers’ conflicts, we can find comfort in knowing that we are not alone, and that God is always ready to welcome us back.
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