Deconstruction of faith

Broadly speaking, the term “deconstruction” means the personal task of examining the Christian beliefs you were raised with to decide for yourself which core beliefs you will hold on to and which beliefs you can no longer support. For some people, deconstruction of their faith will mean emerging with a stronger, more Gospel-centric faith than before. But for others, it will mean rejection of their Christian faith entirely.

On this page you’ll find more information about the nuances of deconstruction and guidance on how to help a friend or family member who is in the process of deconstructing their faith. As you seek to help, be aware that the deconstruction movement includes vocal advocates who zealously promote the practice of deconstruction and who applaud anyone who ultimately decides to abandon their faith.

Do you have an adult child who is struggling in their faith, or has rejected Christianity completely? Learn what you can do to help your child in this free, six-part video series available at FocusOnTheFamily.ca/Wander.

Recommended resources

“Evangelicals and the Deconstruction of Christianity,” a free video presentation from Lighthouse Voices by Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett

The Deconstruction of Christianity: What It Is, Why It's Destructive, and How to Respond by Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett

Set Adrift: Deconstructing What You Believe Without Sinking Your Faith by John Marriott

Before You Go: Uncovering Hidden Factors in Faith Loss by John Marriott

Surviving Religion 101: Letters to a Christian Student on Keeping the Faith in College by Michael J. Kruger

Doubtless: Because Faith Is Hard by Shelby Abbott (for young adults)

Prayers for Prodigals: 90 Days of Prayer for Your Child by James Banks

Loving Your Adult Children: The Heartache of Parenting and the Hope of the Gospel by Gaye B. Clark

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