On this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, our conversation explores the concept of Christian masculinity through the perspectives of three good friends in different contexts and seasons of life. They discuss the definitions of masculinity, the influence of cultural voices, the importance of vulnerability in fatherhood, and the role of community in discipleship. The dialogue emphasizes the need for men to model Christ-like behavior and to engage with the next generation in meaningful ways, encouraging them to pursue a deeper relationship with God.

Takeaways

Christian masculinity is defined by humility, courage, and restraint.

Influencers shape young men's perceptions of masculinity.

Vulnerability is essential in fatherhood and modeling behavior.

Community plays a crucial role in discipleship and mentoring.

Cultural voices often conflict with biblical teachings on masculinity.

Personal experiences shape our understanding of manhood.

The church can provide a constructive vision of masculinity.

Engaging with young men requires addressing their cultural influences.

Spiritual formation can happen in everyday life, not just in church settings.

The journey of maturity is ongoing for all men.

Sound Bites

"The world needs magnanimous men."

"We must be clear as believers."

"Watch how your mom and I interact."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christian Masculinity

02:53 Defining Christian Masculinity

05:56 The Role of Influencers in Shaping Masculinity

08:49 Personal Experiences and Models of Masculinity

11:38 Vulnerability and Transparency in Fatherhood

14:40 The Importance of Community in Discipleship

17:18 Navigating Cultural Voices and Expectations

20:26 The Challenge of Presenting Christ to Young Men

23:26 The Inner Life and Spiritual Formation

26:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this bonus episode, we hear from Brett McCracken, Senior Editor and Director of Communications for The Gospel Coalition, as he discusses the various forms of 'death' associated with excessive smartphone use and scrolling, including physical, emotional, and cognitive deaths. He introduces the concept of 'brain rot,' a term used to describe the deterioration of mental faculties due to overconsumption of trivial online content. McCracken emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the dangers of cognitive atrophy exacerbated by technology and AI. He also offers practical solutions for churches and communities to combat these issues, such as creating phone-free spaces and fostering a culture of reading. This talk was given at a TGCSD regional chapter event on August 20, 2025.

Takeaways

Scrolling habits lead to various forms of death.

Teen suicide rates correlate with smartphone use.

Brain rot reflects a decline in cognitive abilities.

Excessive screen time contributes to emotional distress.

Critical thinking skills are diminishing in the digital age.

Daydreaming is essential for mental health.

AI may worsen cognitive decline by outsourcing thinking.

Churches should address the issue of brain rot.

Creating phone-free spaces can help combat distractions.

Cultivating a reading culture can enhance critical thinking.

Sound Bites

"We're scrolling ourselves to death."

"Brain rot is a fascinating term."

"Normalize phone-free spaces in churches."

In this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, Jonathan Shradar and Geoff Hsu delve into the complex relationship between shame and faith. They explore how shame can hinder personal transformation and the importance of vulnerability in the Christian journey. Drawing insights from Curt Thompson's book, 'The Soul of Shame', they discuss the psychological and theological implications of shame, emphasizing the need for healthy community connections and the integration of psychology with theology to foster genuine discipleship and healing.

Keywords

shame, faith, transformation, vulnerability, gospel, psychology, theology, community, healing, discipleship

Takeaways

Shame can hinder our transformation in faith.

Vulnerability is essential for authentic community.

Understanding shame requires both psychological and theological insights.

Jesus experienced shame, which connects Him to our struggles.

Healthy community can mitigate feelings of shame.

Spiritual practices alone may not lead to transformation without addressing shame.

Shame is a bodily response, not just an emotional one.

Creating safe environments is crucial for healing.

The church must integrate emotional maturity into discipleship.

Transformation is possible through understanding and addressing shame.

Titles

Shame and Faith: A Deep Dive

The Journey of Understanding Shame

Sound bites

"Jesus took on our shame."

"Shame is more than just a feeling."

"Shame has a grip on our lives."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shame and Flourishing

03:36 The Journey of Understanding Shame

06:42 The Role of Spiritual Formation

09:52 Defining Shame and Its Impact

12:27 Theological Insights on Shame

15:38 The Church's Role in Addressing Shame

18:38 Integrating Psychology and Theology

21:37 Practical Steps for Transformation

24:44 Creating Safe Community Environments

27:43 Jesus and the Experience of Shame

30:36 The Future of Confessional Communities

39:41 Smell Like Jesus | Shame — Take 02

40:47 Understanding Shame in Faith

41:16 The Impact of Shame on Transformation

41:29 Understanding Shame and Vulnerability

41:58 The Role of Identity in Christ