The Sanctuary Jupiter Empathy for Exiles | Tullian Tchividjian
Feb 9, 2026
A conversation about whether empathy is real and how religious bubbles can deaden it. Reflections on John 15 and how failure reveals need and invites mercy. Thoughts on confession, honest storytelling, and how owning mistakes deepens compassion. A call for communities that welcome ragged, grace-filled connection.
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John 15 Is A Promise To Future Failures
- John 15 is spoken hours before the crucifixion and addresses failing disciples, so it's a promise to future failures not a performance pep talk.
- Jesus presents himself as the true vine who supplies life and fruit to branches that have nothing in themselves, reversing the merit mindset.
Do Sit In Recovery Meetings And Just Listen
- Do sit in recovery rooms and listen without speaking to relearn empathy and remember who grace is for.
- Tullian recommends AA rooms, rehab centers, and recovery meetings as practical training for pastors and leaders.
Abiding Is An Announcement Of Help
- Abiding in Christ isn't a new method for holiness but an announcement of help: life and fruit flow from Jesus, not from our effort.
- Tullian links this to Romans 8's chain of salvation with 'no human fingerprints' to stress grace alone.