Questioning the Origin Myth

There’s a profound power to storytelling. In all kinds of communities, the stories we tell about who we are and where we came from are life-shaping.
At Mars Hill, one of the oft-told stories was about Mark Driscoll’s origin and calling. It began with the gift of a Bible from his future wife. That was the catalyst to faith, and a walk in the woods a few months later led to an experience of hearing God’s audible voice saying, “Marry Grace, plant Mars Hill, preach the Bible, and train men.”
That story was repeated countless times at Mars Hill, lending Driscoll a sense of both authority and purpose and inviting the church to get caught up in that mission with him.
This shorter episode dives deeper into this “founding myth” of Mars Hill, and how it evolved over time. It also explores the formative, almost liturgical effect it had on the church, and raises the question of how it might have contributed to a fragile architecture at the heart of the church.
The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill is a production of Christianity Today
www.christianitytoday.com/ct/...
It’s executive produced by Erik Petrik
It’s produced, written, and edited by Mike Cosper
Joy Beth Smith is our associate producer.
Music, and sound design, by Kate Siefker and Mike Cosper
This episode was mixed by Mike Cosper
Our theme song is “Sticks and Stones” by King’s Kaleidoscope.
Special thanks to Ben Vandermeer
Graphic Design by Bryan Todd
Social Media by Nicole Shanks
Editorial consulting by Andrea Palpant-Dilley
CT’s Editor in Chief is Timothy Dalrymple

[@Alexei2539]

A beautiful and well put analysis of what went on.

[@rciotola100]

Incredible episode. My eyes and heart are opening more and more to understanding why so many are deconstructing. I realize I am going through it myself and didn't even know it. The death of my wife and the lifetime of pain she suffered has caused me to rethink everything I believe. Your words to Josh really hit deep.

[@trinawitte8625]

I never knew anything about Mark Driscoll until recently. Several of his current videos have shown up on my feed and I’ve tried to watch, but I could never get through any of them. I now know why ~

[@arthurvanderhoff2413]

The script is fascinating in an odd way. Thank you for pointing out Apple, Google, HP etc and highlighting American mythology. This is definitely something that has invaded Christian religious expression

[@maricamaas2326]

No mention made of being convicted of sin, righteousness and judgement; not saved by grace, though somehow called to some doings, and after not even attending a church, to be planting one... A true miracle that some good could come about amidst as much pride and arrogance!

[@ferventheat]

I don't believe he ever was born again/a Christian, based on his testimony. Just like Benny Hinn. Somehow God allows unregenerate people to mimic pastor's, teachers, church planters in a way acceptable to many, and only years does it become obvious to some that something ain't right . Discernment and spirit filled ministers are both in short supply .

[@HearGodsWord]

As I always thought, it was a well rehearsed script and not a statement of fact.

[@Star-dj1kw]

✅

[@janetstephens7762]

Story was fascinating but I gotta stop watching cause it it makes me so sad. I believe MD is so very deceived. God save us from the corruption of power.

[@anthonya2700]

I kept listening, but I completely agree with you

[@maricamaas2326]

Amidst the sad testimonies could not help crying 😢