Should we reject books by authors who rejected the faith?

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It grieves all three of us on this podcast when anyone walks away from the Christian faith. Joshua Harris’ recent announcement of his “deconstruction” of his faith is just one of many that each of us—Barnabas, Dave, and me—know of and are affected by to varying degrees.

He isn’t the only one, of course. There are so many (former) pastors that have either rejected the faith entirely, or through their behavior, been revealed to be out of step with the message they proclaimed. So what should we do with the books they wrote that we maybe found helpful once upon a time? Listen in as we discuss

  • Should we get rid of books based on the author’s character?
  • Can (and should) we separate the message from the individual sharing it?
  • What hope do we have for authors who reject the gospel they once proclaimed?
  • How should we respond as we learn about the attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs of historical figures?

All this plus sucker-punching, and our updates on what we’re reading.


Thanks to Gospel-Centered Discipleship for sponsoring this episode. If you’re an aspiring writer who wants to learn from the likes of Jen Wilkin, Hannah Anderson, Jared Wilson, and our own Barnabas Piper, sign up to take part in their new writers cohort at tailored.coach/gcdwriters.

And, of course, thanks to our friends at Lagares Coffee Roaster for partnering with us to make the Table of (mal)Contents blendOrder all the bags you can handle today.


A few of the books we mention on this episode:

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Posted by Aaron Armstrong

Aaron is the author of several books for adults and children, as well as multiple documentaries and Bible studies. His latest book, I'm a Christian—Now What?: A Guide to Your New Life with Christ is available now.