Not sure what to do with the Bible anymore? You’re not alone.
For many people, the Bible has become a source of confusion, tension, or even harm — used to silence questions, enforce certainty, or shut down honest doubt. Others still feel drawn to faith, but don’t know how to relate to this book without intellectual gymnastics or emotional cost.
This short talk is an invitation to step back and ask a different question:
What if the Bible isn’t the problem — but our accumulated, exhausting expectations of it are?
Rather than treating the Bible as a single, flawless rulebook, this session explores what it means to approach it as a library of texts: shaped by history, culture, poetry, argument, faith, and disagreement — which is exactly why it’s so inspired and useful.
What to expect
A 30 minute, accessible talk (no academic background required)
An honest, non-defensive approach to scripture
No pressure to agree with everything
Space for curiosity rather than certainty
This talk is part of a wider project called Rewilding Faith, but you don’t need to know anything about that — or sign up for anything — to attend. You’re welcome to come just for this.
About the setting
The talk takes place within the Sunday morning service at Harbour Faith Community, so that regulars there can also engage with the theme.
If you’re wary of church spaces, please be reassured:
visitors are genuinely welcome
no one will single you out
no one will try to recruit you
you won’t be asked to say or do anything
You’re free to listen, reflect, and take what’s helpful.
If you can’t attend in person, or would prefer to engage from a distance, the talk will be recorded and shared afterwards.
Practical details
When: Sunday 1 February, 11:00am
Where: Harbour Faith Community, Carrickfergus
Cost: Free
Booking: Not required
A little context
This talk is one of two opening Spark Talks for Rewilding Faith, a year-long series exploring Christian faith in more thoughtful, open, and spacious ways. (The other talk is on the same subject but from a slightly different perspective, delivered at First Church Belfast, 10:30am on the same day.)
For Rewilding Faith, each month includes:
Two short talks
A discussion space in Belfast
A nature-based contemplative practice
Recommended Reading
Possible bonus online session
You’re welcome to explore more, or simply come along to this one event.