37. Stories and Sin - Adam Miller

Faith Matters

In this episode, we speak with Adam Miller on the subject of sin. Adam has a really unique perspective on this — to quote his book, he says “God’s work in your life is bigger than the story you’d like that life to tell. His life is bigger than your plans, goals, or fears. To save your life, you’ll have to lay down your stories and, minute by minute, day by day, give your life back to him. Preferring your stories to his life is sin.”
We dive deep on those ideas with Adam, one of our favorite Latter-day Saint thinkers and authors. Adam is Professor of Philosophy at Collin College in McKinney, Texas, and author of several books, including Letters to a Young Mormon, published by Deseret Book.

08:36 How does Adam Miller define sin?
20:37 How should we navigate obeying the law and loving others? Are they at odds?
28:10 What roles can guilt and shame play?
34:43 How does sin relate to punishment?
39:02 Thoughts on prayer, ego, and the stories we tell
51:36 How can I teach my children these things in a healthy way?