Shadowboxing: Unmasking the Monsters Within
In this episode of the sermon series 'Shadowboxing: Confronting the Monsters Within,' we explore the concept of the 'false self' and the inner 'monster' through personal anecdotes and literary references like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. By delving into the Bible story of Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Esau from Genesis 27:1-20, we uncover the masks we wear to navigate life's challenges and seek acceptance. Insights from Christian psychologist David Benner and the Enneagram help us differentiate the false self from our true God-given identity. The sermon concludes with reflections on autumn's symbolism of letting go, inspired by Lucille Clifton's poem, 'The Lesson of the Falling Leaves.'
00:00 A Memorable Mistake in London
03:06 Facing Fears and Cultural Monsters
06:43 Exploring the Monster Within
07:29 The Tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
11:09 The False Self and Genesis 27
15:54 Setting the Stage: Isaac's Prayer and Rebecca's Revelation
16:20 Jacob and Esau: The Struggle Begins
17:12 The Shrewdness of Rebecca and Jacob
18:43 The Deception Unfolds: Jacob's Mask
20:12 The Consequences of Deception
20:45 Reflecting on Identity and the False Self
21:56 Understanding the False Self in Christian Context
22:46 Personal Journey: Confronting the False Self
23:34 The Enneagram and Self-Discovery
25:34 Jacob's Transformation: From Supplanter to Israel
27:00 The Struggle of Marginalized Identities
28:11 The Spiritual Journey: Losing the Self to Find the Self
28:55 Confronting Our Fears: The Lesson of the Falling Leaves