Catching Our Breath
Episode Description:
Shawn McCraney invites people, especially those from Calvary Chapels, to attend a special event in September featuring Don K. Preston, a leading expert in Preterist eschatology, to critically discuss and challenge the widely accepted futurist view of end-times theology. By addressing and questioning the prevalent teachings on Jesus’ Second Coming, Shawn aims to foster a deeper understanding of biblical eschatology and encourage a liberated relationship with God, countering the fear-driven narratives of imminent destruction.
In an exploration of Christian theology, Shawn emphasizes that differing doctrinal interpretations should not divide believers, advocating for a focus on faith and love according to 1st Corinthians 13. He argues for openness to various theological views beyond systematic theology such as Calvinism or Arminianism, stressing that the essence of spiritual teachings is to nurture the soul through love and the Word of God, as cited in John 6:63.
Shawn's teaching emphasizes that while the doctrines of Moses focused on physical sustenance, Jesus' words are spiritual and eternal, and the true essence of belief should be understood through the spirit rather than the flesh. He clarifies that the New Covenant is fulfilled through an inner spiritual transformation, written in our hearts and minds, and the essence of living in God's Spirit is embodied in love.
Shawn encourages sharing personal experiences over doctrinal debates to foster conversions, suggesting that real-life testimonies can have more impact than discussing theological concepts such as grace, works, or historical issues like the Salamander letters. He also emphasizes open dialogue and truth-seeking as essential for personal growth and understanding, highlighting how engaging with diverse theological perspectives, such as preterism or dispensationalism, can broaden one's views.