Mind Shift with Erwin & Aaron McManus

• #093 Under Construction: The Human Problem

  Aaron McManus opens this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast by introducing its theme, “Under Construction,” referencing both their house renovation due to mold and the idea of lives under construction through scripture. He and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, record amidst the noise of ongoing repairs, using it as a metaphor for spiritual growth. Erwin humorously admits his tendency to get granular with the Bible, spending weeks on a single chapter, while Aaron explains that this episode marks a shift into deeper conversations around scripture – a new focus for the podcast.They dive into the often snarky comments on social media. Erwin encourages listeners to engage with kindness rather than negativity, aiming to create a positive and inclusive space. Aaron shares how people frequently attempt to educate Erwin on theology despite his background, prompting a discussion about humility in spiritual conversations and the importance of listening over lecturing when it comes to scripture.The conversation turns deeply personal as Erwin shares his journey with the Bible, starting with the Gospel of John, which emotionally transformed his understanding of Jesus, and moving into Acts, which gave him a sense of being part of an ongoing movement. Aaron recalls a dinner conversation about the visible changes Jesus brought to his life, reflecting on how scripture reshapes identity and purpose. They emphasize that engaging with the Bible is not just academic but transformative when approached relationally and reflectively.Erwin recounts his surprising experience accidentally enrolling in a PhD Hebrew course at UNC Chapel Hill and how his classmates supported him through it. He explains the literary and cultural distinctions between the Old and New Testaments, highlighting how the Old Testament’s stories build a worldview and the New Testament calls for interpretation and application. Aaron and Erwin suggest reading different Gospels based on personality type to cultivate a personal connection to Jesus' life and teachings.They conclude by discussing the need for action and community in Bible study. Erwin shares his preparation method for talks: finding truth, experiencing it, and acting on it, while Aaron describes his use of the SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer) for daily integration. They reflect on theological debates that miss the heart of scripture and stress that understanding the Bible is incomplete without practical obedience and community engagement. The episode ends with an encouragement to listeners: build your life on the living truths of scripture, stay rooted in community, and let action transform knowledge into a life aligned with God’s heart.

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• ARCHIVAL EP #02 Good Vs. Evil

  ARCHIVAL episode originally released Apr 19, 2024In this archival episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin McManus, dive into a conversation about staying centered in a chaotic world. They reflect on the difference between internal character and external appearances, highlighting how what's within shapes the world around us. Erwin shares insights on the challenges of remaining focused amidst cultural, political, and economic distractions, especially on the West Coast. They explore how the identity of a place is shaped by factors like roads, taxes, and weather, and how these external realities often mirror deeper societal struggles.The discussion turns to global influences as Erwin shares a story from his wife, Kim, who works with refugees and recently met three people financed by George Soros and the Catholic Church to migrate illegally to the U.S. Aaron and Erwin unpack the implications of these stories, questioning global power structures and the surprising consistency of these refugee accounts. Aaron points out that Soros is linked to funding various political actors, a fact some consider evidence of his negative influence. The conversation highlights the fine line between conspiracies and hidden truths in the modern political landscape.Aaron reflects on growing up as a pastor’s kid and developing a heightened sensitivity to spiritual darkness, sharing how certain dark music and art still unsettle him. Erwin adds his own childhood story of avoiding a KISS concert due to fears of satanic influence, leading to a broader discussion on how dark media shapes minds and souls. They emphasize the importance of guarding what we consume visually and aurally, suggesting that internal peace and spiritual health are deeply connected to the media and art we allow into our lives.The conversation deepens as they discuss cultural shifts in defining good and evil. Erwin explains that evil is when we make destructive choices against others, while sin is making destructive choices against ourselves. They explore societal trends, including controversial topics like gender transitions in children, reflecting on the long-term spiritual and psychological consequences. Erwin argues that the greatest evil is when innocence is intentionally destroyed, while Aaron reflects on humanity's natural tendency to simplify life into binaries of darkness and light, urging listeners to actively choose goodness in their daily lives.Finally, Aaron shares a story of a Swedish speaker quoting Jesus to frame her talk on AI, illustrating how empathy rooted in Jesus' teachings can guide us toward goodness, regardless of religious belief. Erwin explains that redemption through Jesus realigns us with our original intention to reflect God's goodness in the world. They close by discussing the power of choice in creating beauty and purpose, emphasizing personal responsibility in shaping society for the better. This episode is a powerful call to live intentionally, engage deeply, and create good in a world full of distractions and moral complexities.

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• #092 Truth In Heresy: Challenging Orthodoxy

  In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron and Erwin McManus reflect on a major transition as Mosaic moves out of its long-time Hollywood home. They recount the final worship night where nearly 900 people gathered and 70–80 baptisms took place, marking the end of an era. The conversation touches on the new campuses now emerging in Calabasas, South Pasadena, Culver City, and Studio City. Erwin shares emotional reflections on the legacy of the building and the many lives transformed there, while Aaron underscores how movement and growth have always been part of Mosaic’s DNA.The episode also dives into the ongoing exploration of Genesis and the growing interest from new audiences, with a notable 60–80% of listeners being first-time participants. Erwin explains why staying in Genesis offers endless opportunities for reflection and theological curiosity. They emphasize the importance of disagreement and diversity of thought within their community, encouraging listeners to engage, question, and wrestle with scripture. This ethos of open dialogue and mutual respect shapes their approach to both the Bible and the people engaging with it.As the discussion unfolds, Aaron shares a moment where he called out performative criticism in church culture, and Erwin unpacks how terms like “heretic” are often weaponized to enforce conformity. Drawing from history, they discuss how ideas once deemed heretical—like heliocentrism—eventually reshaped how we understand truth. Erwin stresses the necessity of intellectual honesty and the courage to question long-held traditions. The conversation becomes a call to spiritual integrity, where truth is not inherited but discovered through inquiry and faith.Throughout the episode, Erwin shares his own theological journey and how he starts with Jesus—not a system—when interpreting scripture. Using analogies like Oppenheimer’s role as a theorist, he explains his focus on deep questions over surface answers. This leads into a thoughtful reflection on the Old Testament, which he compares to stories like *Braveheart* and *Gladiator*, noting how its themes of freedom, honor, and struggle mirror real human experience. He reminds listeners that the Bible was written by the oppressed, not the powerful, and that its messiness is part of its authenticity.Finally, the conversation turns toward the future of theology and the church. Erwin critiques the stagnating effect of the phrase “there’s nothing new under the sun,” arguing that it limits innovation and imagination in faith communities. He shares his own experience being blacklisted for advocating creativity and change, and stresses the urgent need for early adopters and innovators to influence theology today. The episode closes with talk of future long-form episodes, community events in different cities, and a shared excitement to keep exploring faith, scripture, and transformation—starting with Jesus and moving outward from there.

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• #091 Heaven And Hell: Do You Know The Bible?

  In this episode, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin McManus, dive into a deeply engaging Q&A, taking on listener-submitted questions around theology, scripture, and spiritual formation. They begin by opening up the format, inviting the community into the conversation, and encouraging engagement beyond the podcast through live discussions and the Mind Shift community platform. Aaron shares the structure for the episode, giving Erwin space to unpack major theological ideas while also fielding more personal and philosophical inquiries about belief, interpretation, and spiritual leadership. Their dynamic sets the tone for an open, curious, and deeply reflective exchange of ideas.A core question raised early in the episode is whether the Bible is infallible. Erwin answers by distinguishing between the perfection of truth and the imperfection of its human messengers. He explains that though written by fallible individuals, the Bible’s intent is not deception but revelation—it is true in what it reveals about God and humanity. Drawing parallels to scientific principles, he likens scripture to the discovery of infallible truths by imperfect people. This launches a broader conversation about the purpose of the Bible—not just to know scripture, but to know God through it.As the episode deepens, Aaron and Erwin explore resources and tools for better understanding scripture. Erwin emphasizes learning in community, where questions are not only allowed but necessary for growth. He reflects on his own early study practices, which included studying Greek and Hebrew and relying on commentaries and physical books. Their discussion touches on how historical and cultural context shapes interpretation and how staying connected to the original languages can preserve nuance often lost in translation. They also reflect on the influence of decisions made at the Council of Nicaea and how certain texts were excluded from the canon.The episode also tackles big theological concepts, including the Trinity, the nature of heaven and hell, and the role of Satan in Genesis. Erwin breaks down the idea of the Trinity with metaphors and references to scripture, highlighting the relational and dynamic nature of God. When asked why Satan was allowed in the garden, Erwin suggests that love demands freedom and trust. Regarding the afterlife, he stresses that the Kingdom of God is a present reality, more pressing than abstract speculation about heaven or hell. He offers a bold view on Jesus’ descent into hell and the possibility of it being “emptied,” emphasizing grace over fear.Finally, they touch on more speculative areas like the Nephilim and the Book of Enoch, while anchoring their theological foundation in the canonical scriptures. Erwin encourages curiosity but warns against letting non-canonical texts distract from what’s central to faith. They also explore differing views on salvation and the dangers of weaponizing theology for control. Throughout, Erwin underscores the radical freedom of grace and love as the most transformative forces. The episode closes with a glimpse into Erwin’s sermon prep routine, shaped by decades of immersion in scripture, and an encouragement to approach theology not as a fixed system, but as a living conversation with God, guided by humility and wonder.

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• #090 Decoding Genesis: Factual Or Metaphor?

  In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, dive into the turbulence in Los Angeles, reflecting on the city’s long history of unrest and social disorder. From the 1992 riots to recent immigration protests and political tensions, they describe LA as a city in constant flux. Erwin contrasts this with his recent travel experiences across the country, while Aaron reflects on the emotional impact of ongoing chaos and the deep gratitude he feels for the people anchoring his life. The episode opens by framing these reflections as a backdrop for a deeper exploration of meaning, purpose, and faith.Aaron introduces a new chapter in the podcast: a scriptural series beginning with the book of Genesis. Drawing from Erwin’s decades of theological teaching, they set the tone for a thoughtful and disruptive exploration of the Bible. They discuss the relevance of Genesis in both literal and metaphorical terms, highlighting the importance of mythology in shaping belief systems. Erwin pushes back against rigid interpretations, inviting listeners into a conversation that values mystery, imagination, and the power of narrative in uncovering spiritual truths.Focusing on Genesis 1:1–3, Erwin breaks down the creation story by emphasizing the symbolic roles of the four elements—earth, wind, fire, and water—and their resonance with modern scientific ideas. He draws parallels between Genesis and concepts in quantum physics, like energy and light, suggesting that the ancient text contains insights consistent with contemporary science. The discussion highlights the phrase “formless and empty,” with Erwin urging listeners to view it through a symbolic lens rather than a strictly physical one. This segment reveals how scripture and science can coexist as complementary frameworks for understanding our origins.The episode then turns to the sequence of creation, specifically the importance of water and the emergence of light. Erwin explains that water’s presence before light speaks to its foundational role in life, while the delayed creation of the sun reshapes how we interpret biblical time. He critiques the literal seven-day creation view, arguing that “days” in Genesis don’t equate to modern 24-hour periods. This opens a discussion on energy, light, and the gradual unfolding of creation, presenting a more layered and expansive view of Genesis that bridges faith and physics.Toward the end, Aaron and Erwin explore the creation of stars and the concept of time, leading into a conversation about astrology and sacred signs. They emphasize that the stars are not meant to predict fate but to signal the rhythm of sacred time. The episode closes with reflections on humanity being made in God’s image—imbued with purpose and interconnected with all creation—setting the stage for future episodes that will continue unpacking Genesis as both a spiritual and cosmic roadmap.

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