An Open Letter to John Cooper of Skillet

Dear John,

A “Dear John” letter usually has an unhappy ending. I hope that will not be the case here today. I am writing in response to the public comments you have made about deconstruction. Often times, especially in Evangelical Christianity, we fear what don’t fully understand. I appreciate how you explained the whole “declaring war” statements that you have made publicly. It showed a Christlike humility. I have written and published two books about deconstruction, and while I am no expert, I want to clear up a few things with you, just for your understanding.

1. Deconstruction is not a “movement,” it is a conversation.

People who are deconstructing have reached a point where they struggle with their beliefs. They ask questions, but find few, if any answers. As a result, they seek to find other people with similar questions. I didn’t go looking for deconstruction; it found me.

2. Deconstruction is really spiritual growth.

My late friend Rick used to say that questions are better answers than the answers themselves. As a conservative Southern Baptist, I wanted to hit him every time he said that. Now I have discovered that he was right. Good questions lead to better questions, which leads to spiritual growth and discovery.

3. People in the deconstruction conversation don’t proselytize; we answer questions and give people a safe space in which to ask them. They come to us, not vice versa.

As I said earlier, deconstruction found me. I wasn’t “witnessed to” by others in deconstruction. In fact, those deconstructing find it difficult to talk to anyone, especially our Christian friends. They may declare war on us…

We don’t go looking for people to offer deconstruction. They read our books and find kindred souls and realize that they are not alone in their questions and doubts. If Jesus, the Prince of Peace, doesn’t declare war on us, then what is your deal?

4. Deconstruction does not lead to atheism.

I admit that maybe some have left the faith entirely, but the number of us who have fallen in love with Jesus all over again is far greater. Atheists are not your enemy, sir. Dare I say your ego is?

5. Deconstruction is NOT the same as someone hitting on your wife!

Look, I understand what you were getting at with that comparison. A man could either hit on your wife directly, or by text message. However, this is NOT deconstruction. We don’t hide in the back of your churches and concerts and try to steal people away. We offer love, grace, support, and a safe place to question their faith. They come looking for us, because the toxicity of Christians who do not offer these things has driven them out. In the last 15 years, over 500,000 people have left the Southern Baptist denomination, including me. The church is failing to be the church, plain and simple, and people are leaving. Millennials are leaving en masse. They can see right through the religious system.

I hope that somehow you read this letter and do so prayerfully. I offer it in the spirit of brotherhood and unity. I would also like to extend an invitation to appear on my podcast, The Reconstruction Rebel, so that we can deepen our discussion and understanding.

By the way, I have been a big fan of Skillet for many years.

Sincerely yours,

Todd R. Vick