Making Sense of Faith with Adam Hamilton

Adam Hamilton
  • 5.0 (160)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Making Sense of Faith with Adam Hamilton

Making Sense of Faith isn't your typical religious podcast. Join Adam Hamilton, bestselling author, speaker, and pastor, as he tackles life's biggest questions with intellectual depth and genuine compassion without asking you to check your brain at the door. Drawing from his experience as an author, speaker, and pastor with decades of conversations asking questions about faith, Adam explores faith that's both deeply rooted and forward-thinking. Here, doubt isn't the opposite of faith—it's part of the journey.

  1. 4D AGO

    Why Holding Grudges is Destroying Your Health: World-Renowned Mental Health Expert Breaks Down the Science

    In this empowering episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton explores the transformative power of forgiveness with world-renowned psychologist and international bestselling author Dr. Henry Cloud. Together, they dive deep into why forgiveness matters for our mental, physical, and spiritual health. This conversation stands in the radical center, embracing questions rather than offering simple solutions to complex issues. This conversation guides us through a journey that bridges the gap between head and heart, examining how forgiveness can free us from the prison of resentment while navigating the complexities of trust and reconciliation. Whether you're struggling with past hurts, curious about the science behind forgiveness, or seeking practical wisdom for your relationships, this episode has something for everyone.Episode Highlights:The Surprising Medical Case for Forgiveness - Discover why unforgiveness functions like a disease in your body. Scientific research has linked unforgiveness to dozens of physical ailments, from cardiovascular disease to diabetes and autoimmune disorders. Learn why holding onto resentment is like refusing to treat an infection—it only hurts you in the end.The Forgiveness Metabolism Metaphor - Explore the fascinating comparison between forgiveness and your body's digestive system. Just as your body needs to eliminate waste to stay healthy, your soul needs forgiveness to process life's painful experiences. This powerful metaphor illuminates why letting go isn't just spiritually beneficial—it's essential for emotional health.Trust vs. Forgiveness: The Critical Distinction - Understand why forgiveness doesn't automatically mean trust. While forgiveness addresses the past and comes freely, trust concerns the future and must be earned. This crucial distinction helps navigate complex relationships where healing is desired but boundaries remain necessary.Finding Common Ground in a Divided World - In our polarized society, forgiveness plays a vital role in bridge-building. Adam and Dr. Cloud explore how proximity and genuine curiosity about others' perspectives can transform judgmental attitudes into understanding, even when disagreements remain.The Marriage Connection - Marriage provides daily opportunities to practice forgiveness. Learn why unforgiveness in marriage creates an "autoimmune disease" in your most important relationship, and discover practical wisdom for cultivating what researcher John Gottman calls "a bubble of trust."This conversation isn't about finding easy answers or promoting blind faith. Instead, Adam welcomes us into an honest exploration of how forgiveness can help us wrestle with doubt, embrace questions, and discover hope that withstands life's toughest challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck in bitterness, curious about the intersection of psychology and faith, or simply seeking practical wisdom for daily life, this episode provides transformative insights without asking you to check your brain or values at the door. Ready to explore a faith that builds bridges instead of walls? Listen to the full episode and begin your journey toward freedom through forgiveness.

    42 min

  2. MAY 6

    The Both-And Church in and Either-Or World with Rev. Matt Miofsky

    In this enlightening episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton explores what makes the United Methodist Church uniquely positioned to speak to 21st century spiritual seekers. Adam engages in an authentic conversation about why so many people who have walked away from church or never attended might find a home in a denomination that intentionally stands in what he calls "the radical center." If you've ever wondered if there's a place where you can ask tough questions, embrace both critical thinking and heartfelt faith, and find community without checking your brain at the door, this episode illuminates a path forward that might surprise you.Episode Highlights:📘 Beyond Either/Or Thinking In a world increasingly divided into rigid camps, Adam explores how the United Methodist Church deliberately holds together seemingly opposing values – honoring both intellectual curiosity and emotional connection, personal spiritual growth and social justice, traditional wisdom and progressive openness. This "both/and" approach offers a refreshing alternative to the "either/or" thinking that dominates our culture.🤔 A Church for Thinking People Adam shares how the Methodist tradition has deep roots in intellectual engagement, beginning at Oxford University. Rather than demanding blind acceptance of dogma, this approach welcomes questions, doubts, and critical thinking as natural parts of the faith journey. The conversation unpacks how loving God with your "critical thinking" was actually encouraged by Jesus himself.❤️ Head and Heart Together Too often, churches emphasize either intellectual understanding or emotional experience. Adam discusses how bringing these elements together creates a more complete expression of faith—one that values theological depth while ensuring that knowledge leads to loving action in the world. This balance prevents faith from becoming merely academic or merely sentimental.🌉 Building Bridges, Not Walls One of the most fascinating aspects of this conversation is how the United Methodist Church functions as a bridge-building community. Adam shares remarkable stories of political opponents finding common ground through faith and how diverse congregations (often 40% Republican, 40% Democrat) model respectful disagreement in a polarized world.🌎 Turned Inside Out for Service Rather than existing solely for the benefit of members, Adam explains how Methodist communities are intentionally focused outward—serving neighborhoods, addressing injustice, and working to close the gap between the world as it is and the world as it should be. For many people, their first encounter with faith happens not in a church building but through witnessing this kind of practical love in action.Consider yourself spiritual but not religious? Hurt by past experiences with the church? Curious about a different approach to Christianity? No matter where you're at on your journey to find meaning and purpose, this conversation offers a compelling vision of Christianity that might be exactly what you've been looking for. Adam invites listeners into a community where grace comes first, questions are welcomed, and diverse perspectives are valued. In a world crying out for healing and connection, this radical center approach to faith offers not just hope but a practical path forward. Ready to explore a faith that doesn't require you to check your brain or your values at the door? Listen to the full episode to discover if the United Methodist Church might be the spiritual home for you.

    27 min

  3. APR 29

    Tears, Triumphs, & New Beginnings: A Refugee Story of Hope & Resilience

    In this powerful episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton welcomes viewers into an intimate conversation about refugee resettlement in Kansas City. Adam brings together a diverse panel including refugees who have rebuilt their lives in America, alongside those who support this vital work. Through honest, sometimes emotional exchanges, we witness the human stories behind refugee headlines – tales of fear and loss, but also of remarkable resilience and hope. This episode builds bridges of understanding between communities and challenges assumptions about refugees, reminding us that welcoming strangers is not just a religious mandate but a profound opportunity for human connection.Episode Highlights:From Afghanistan to Kansas City – Hear the emotional firsthand account of a former Afghan special forces officer who fled with his family during the chaotic fall of Kabul in 2021, and how his daughters are now thriving in American schools and even competing in robotics competitions.Rebuilding Lives from Scratch – Witness the extraordinary work of Jewish Vocational Services as they help refugees navigate everything from finding apartments to securing jobs – taking families from airport arrivals with just a few suitcases to self-sufficiency and success in their new community.More than Community Service – Learn how volunteers form deep relationships with refugee families, moving beyond simple charity to genuine friendship that transforms lives.New Beginnings – Experience the journey of a young woman who arrived as a refugee child and now helps others find employment opportunities in her role at JVS, giving back to her community.Building Bridges – Understand why refugee resettlement matters from both humanitarian and community perspectives, as diverse faith traditions unite around a common purpose of welcome and support.This episode arrives at a pivotal moment in our national conversation about refugees. As Adam reminds us, sometimes we forget that "refugees are people" with stories, dreams, and immense potential. The emotional connections formed in this conversation showcase what's possible when communities open their hearts to welcome strangers. By sharing these stories of tears, triumphs, and new beginnings, Adam invites us to recognize our common humanity and discover how welcoming refugees transforms lives – both for those receiving welcome and those extending it.

    1 hr

  4. APR 22

    Faith vs. Reality: Finding Meaning in Crisis, Scripture, and Compassionate Action

    In this special 25th episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton explores how facing life's greatest challenges can transform our perspective and deepen our faith. Through powerful personal stories and insightful biblical analysis, Adam examines how we interpret Jesus's teachings and apply them to modern life. The episode weaves together intimate conversations about cancer, faith, and living fully into the biblical calls for justice and compassion. This is a conversation that bridges the gap between head and heart, offering both intellectual depth and emotional connection.Episode Highlights:Embracing "All The Things" - Discover how one couple's cancer journey taught them to say "yes" to life's opportunities, creating meaningful memories and living each day with intention rather than taking time for granted.Taking Jesus Seriously, Not Always Literally - Adam unpacks how Jesus often used prophetic hyperbole—exaggeration to make a point—and explains why understanding this speaking style helps us interpret challenging passages without missing their deeper meaning.Grace Beyond the Rules - Learn how Jesus's compassion for the Samaritan woman reveals that while he holds high standards, he offers mercy and grace when we fall short—teaching us to balance ideals with compassion.Justice and Righteousness - Explore the biblical concepts of "mishpat" (justice) and "tzedekah" (righteousness) and how they call us to care for the vulnerable in both our personal lives and our society.Common Decency and Common Justice - Adam challenges listeners to move beyond political divisions to embrace values that transcend party lines—creating a society that cares for those in need while practicing good stewardship.Whether you're questioning your faith, navigating a life’s challenges, or simply trying to make sense of Jesus's confusing teachings, this episode offers fresh perspectives that speak to both your intellect and your heart. Adam's honest exploration invites you into a conversation where doubt is embraced, difficult questions are welcomed, and faith becomes more authentic through the journey. By focusing on how we make sense of faith in real-world situations, this episode demonstrates that Christianity doesn't require checking your brain or your values at the door—instead, it invites you to bring your whole self to a faith that brings people together and transforms lives.

    29 min

  5. APR 15

    3 Things Every Person Needs

    In this impactful episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton explores three essential practices for meaningful connection in our increasingly disconnected world. Through personal stories and scriptural wisdom, Adam makes a compelling case that regardless of our personality type or life circumstances, we all need Jesus as a friend, relationships with others, and meaningful connections in our workplace. His gentle invitation to say "yes" to Jesus offers listeners a simple yet profound way to begin or renew their faith journey.Episode Highlights:The Friendship of Jesus - Adam explains that Jesus doesn't just call us servants but friends. The prayer of discipleship is simply saying "yes" to Jesus' invitation to follow him and allow him to walk alongside us in our daily lives.The Friendship Recession - We're experiencing what experts call a "friendship recession" with fewer people reporting close relationships than ever before. Adam shares how even as a pastor of thousands, he once felt deeply lonely until he intentionally cultivated meaningful friendships.Who Would You Call at 3 AM? - Drawing from the gospel story of friends who carried a paralyzed man to Jesus, Adam challenges listeners to identify who would carry them in crisis and encourages intentional relationship building through church community.Faith in the Workplace - Our greatest mission field may be where we spend most of our waking hours. Adam suggests that if coworkers don't see evidence of your faith in how you treat others, it might be time for reflection.The Power of Gratitude - Simple words like "please" and "thank you" can transform workplace relationships and reflect the fruit of the Spirit in our daily interactions.Whether you're skeptical about faith, curious about Christianity, or looking to deepen your spiritual journey, this episode offers practical wisdom for navigating life's complexities. Adam's conversational approach doesn't require checking your brain or values at the door—instead, he invites you into an authentic exploration of how faith and friendship intersect to bring meaning to our lives. This thought-provoking conversation might be exactly what you need to transform your approach to relationships and find hope in today's disconnected world.

    19 min

  6. APR 8

    The 7 Statements That Changed the World

    In this thought-provoking episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton explores the profound "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the Gospel of John. With his characteristic blend of historical context, theological insight, and practical application, Adam invites listeners to consider their own answer to Jesus' timeless question: "Who do you say that I am?" Whether you're spiritually curious or a longtime believer, this concise exploration offers a fresh perspective on statements that have shaped history for over two thousand years.Episode Highlights:The Divine Connection – Discover how Jesus' use of "I AM" directly connects to God's revealed name to Moses at the burning bush, challenging listeners to reconsider who Jesus claimed to be.Bread of Life – Learn why Jesus' declaration about being "the bread of life" goes beyond physical nourishment to address the spiritual hunger we all experience in our increasingly disconnected world.Light in Darkness – Adam shares a powerful illustration about "punching holes in the darkness" that reveals how Jesus' statement about being "the light of the world" offers hope amid life's uncertainties.The Good Shepherd – Experience the powerful imagery Adam encountered in the Holy Land that brings new meaning to Jesus' promise of protection and personal care as both "the gate" and "the good shepherd."Life Beyond Death – Explore the radical hope embedded in Jesus' claim to be "the resurrection and the life," offering an eternal perspective that transforms how we view our current challenges.These seven statements invite us to see Jesus in a completely new light – not as a distant religious figure, but as someone offering practical wisdom for our deepest human needs: nourishment for the soul, guidance when lost, protection from harm, truth in confusion, and hope beyond death. By understanding these profound self-descriptions, you'll gain fresh perspective on life's big questions without having to check your brain or values at the door. Whether you're spiritually curious or skeptical, these ancient declarations still have the power to transform how you navigate life's complexities and find meaning in an uncertain world.

    20 min

  7. APR 1

    A Life Redeemed: Overcoming Addiction, Prison, and Family Trauma

    In this deeply moving episode of "Making Sense of Faith," Adam Hamilton sits down for an intimate conversation with his uncle, Glenn Miller, a man whose life journey epitomizes the transformative power of faith. The episode traces Glenn’s remarkable path from addiction, crime, and federal prison to finding peace and purpose through Christ. With raw honesty, we hear about family trauma beginning with a mother's suicide, struggles with drug addiction, multiple prison sentences, and the gradual journey toward redemption. This powerful testimony speaks directly to those who wonder if their past defines their future or if genuine transformation is possible, showing how faith can bring hope even to those who feel beyond saving.Five Powerful Moments from This Episode:The Weight of Family Trauma - Learn how childhood wounds, including a mother's suicide and a difficult relationship with his father, set the stage for decades of struggle.The Spiral into Addiction - Hear the candid account of how promising opportunities were derailed by drugs, first as a user and then as a dealer.Prison and Rock Bottom - Discover the sobering reality of multiple prison sentences totaling nearly nine years and the decision point that finally led to change.Finding Faith - Experience the turning point that occurred when regular church attendance opened the door to a new understanding of forgiveness and purpose."These Are the Happiest Times" - Be inspired by the profound revelation that despite earlier wealth and success, true happiness came through faith in the love and grace of ChristThis episode speaks to anyone who's ever felt lost, broken, or defined by their mistakes. It addresses life's hardest questions with honesty and compassion, offering hope without easy answers. If you've ever wondered whether a troubled past can give way to a peaceful present, or if redemption is possible for those who feel they've gone too far, this conversation offers a thoughtful glimpse into how faith can transform a life from the inside out. No matter where you are in your spiritual journey—skeptical, curious, or somewhere in between—this story reminds us that transformation is possible for everyone.

    31 min

  8. MAR 25

    Does Everything Happen for a Reason?

    In this thought-provoking episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton tackles perhaps the most challenging question people face on their spiritual journey: Does everything happen for a reason? Drawing from his pastoral experience, Adam offers a fresh perspective that bridges faith and doubt, challenging the common notion that God micromanages every detail of our lives. Instead, he presents a view of God who created natural processes and gave humans freedom, yet walks alongside us through our suffering. This conversation invites everyone to reconsider comforting but potentially harmful phrases like "everything happens for a reason" or "it must be God's will" when confronting life's painful moments.Key insights from this episode:God created processes, not puppets - Adam challenges the perception that God controls every detail at the cellular, cosmic, and personal levels. Instead, he suggests God created natural processes that generally work well but sometimes go wrong, and gave humans genuine freedom to make choices—both good and bad.Why "everything happens for a reason" hurts - Through powerful stories like Patty's experience after losing her two-year-old daughter, Adam reveals why well-meaning platitudes can actually increase someone's pain and anger toward God by making Him the source of suffering rather than comfort.Jesus healed, He didn't explain - If sickness were God's will, Adam points out, Jesus wouldn't have healed people—he would have told them to accept their illness as divine punishment or teaching. Instead, Jesus consistently worked against suffering, showing God's true desire.Prayer works, just not how we expect - Rather than always delivering dramatic miracles, God typically answers prayers through people, medicine, and compassion. Adam shares how he prays for both miraculous healing and for God to work through doctors, revealing a balanced approach to faith and practical action.Finding meaning without blaming God - Adam offers a powerful reframing of Romans 8:28, suggesting that God doesn't cause suffering but works to bring good from it—an invitation to ask "how can something meaningful come from this?" rather than "why did God do this?"When life's hardest moments leave us questioning where God is, this episode offers a lifeline of hope without sacrificing intellectual honesty. Adam stands firmly in what the Resurrection community calls "the radical center"—acknowledging the reality of suffering while affirming God's loving presence through it all. Whether you're wrestling with doubt, seeking deeper understanding, or supporting someone through grief, this conversation provides language and perspective to make sense of faith when life seems senseless. Listen to the full episode to discover a God who doesn't cause your suffering but promises to walk with you through it.

    16 min
See All (28)

5
out of 5
160 Ratings

About

Making Sense of Faith isn't your typical religious podcast. Join Adam Hamilton, bestselling author, speaker, and pastor, as he tackles life's biggest questions with intellectual depth and genuine compassion without asking you to check your brain at the door. Drawing from his experience as an author, speaker, and pastor with decades of conversations asking questions about faith, Adam explores faith that's both deeply rooted and forward-thinking. Here, doubt isn't the opposite of faith—it's part of the journey.

Information

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada
OSZAR »