In today’s episode of The Real Jesus Experience, I’m joined by Derek Mathews—the founder and host of the Storyverse Podcast, and the founder of Storyverse Ministries.

In Part 1, Derek takes us back to the early framework he had for God—distant and critical—and how that shaped a faith that felt more like work than relationship. Derek's vision of God was as though He was sitting in a swivel chair, turning away from Derek when He was displeased, and back toward him when Derek had performed well.

He describes trying to “get back into God’s good graces,” and even after coming to understand salvation by grace, still feeling the pull of a shame-driven mindset.

If you’ve ever wrestled with feelings like God thinking you're a failure, Derek’s story will put language to it—and point you back to what’s true.

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Thanks for watching the video Derek Mathews (Storyverse): From Ritual to Relationship—Meeting the God Who’s Near | EP #58 (Pt 1)

Guest: Derek Mathews

Host: Chad Beck

Sound By: Steven Cooley

Edited by: The Real Jesus Experience