When was the last time you realized you were wrong about something? Maybe it was a political issue, a theological assumption, or even how you thought that one app on your phone worked. For many of us, the moment of realization comes with embarrassment—almost shame. But what if admitting we don’t know, and being willing to rethink, is actually a spiritual discipline?
That’s exactly the invitation Jesus gives us in the Sermon on the Mount. Again and again, He says: “You’ve heard it said… but I say to you.” In those words, He challenges His listeners—and us today—to unlearn what culture, tradition, or false teaching has programmed into us, and to relearn the ways of His kingdom.
The Biblical Call to Rethink
Paul echoes this in Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The world has its own algorithms, constantly shaping our thinking through media, politics, and even some distorted versions of religion. But discipleship means learning a new way of seeing—one grounded in God’s Word and guided by the Spirit.
And Jude warns us that there are false teachers, both then and now, who distort the gospel for personal gain. That makes biblical literacy and discernment even more urgent in an age of TikTok theology, prosperity gospel soundbites, and algorithm-driven outrage.
Why Unlearning is So Hard (and So Necessary)
Here’s where modern psychology can help us grasp what the Bible has been telling us all along. In his book Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know, organizational psychologist Adam Grant argues that the most successful people and communities aren’t the ones who cling stubbornly to their assumptions, but those who regularly re-evaluate, question, and rethink. As a follower of Jesus, I often ask myself am I following a “biblical principle” I’ve been taught? or am I following the Bible (the word of God)?
Grant describes three unhealthy mindsets we often slip into:
The Preacher, defending sacred beliefs.
The Prosecutor, attacking others’ beliefs.
The Politician, seeking approval.
But instead of staying stuck in these modes, he invites us into the mindset of a scientist—curious, humble, and always ready to test ideas against evidence.
When I read that, I couldn’t help but think of Jesus on the hillside, gently dismantling the inherited assumptions of His listeners. He wasn’t afraid to say, “You thought it was this way, but here’s the truth.” That’s kingdom science—not arrogance, but a posture of openness to God’s truth.
Practical Ways to Practice “Thinking Again” as Disciples
So what does this look like for us as followers of Jesus in a tech-saturated, justice-hungry world?
Audit Your Inputs.
Just like our phones need regular updates, so do our minds. Ask: What voices are shaping me most—God’s Word or the algorithm?Unlearn Cultural Narratives.
Jesus says, “Love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44). Culture says, “Cancel your enemies.” Which one are you following?Renew Your Mind Daily.
Replace one scroll session this week with Scripture meditation. Let Romans 12:2 be your anchor: “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”Test the Teaching.
Jude reminds us: false teachers will always exist. Before sharing that viral sermon clip, ask:Does it align with Scripture in context?
Does it glorify Jesus or self?
Does it reflect the fruit of the Spirit?
Practice Rethinking in Community.
Don’t do it alone. Start conversations with your small group, your friends, or even online. Share one belief you’re rethinking and invite dialogue.
Book Review Takeaway
Adam Grant’s Think Again isn’t written as a Christian book, but it resonates deeply with biblical discipleship. His call to rethink, question, and stay curious reflects Jesus’ kingdom teaching, Paul’s renewal language, and Jude’s urgent reminder to stay rooted in truth.
Where the book is especially helpful is in giving us modern language and examples for something the Bible already commands: humility in our learning. It’s a refreshing reminder that faith and curiosity are not enemies—they’re companions on the road to transformation.
Final Word
Discipleship in 2025 demands more than just knowing Bible verses. It requires the courage to unlearn falsehoods, the discipline to renew our minds, and the wisdom to discern truth from lies in a noisy world.
As Adam Grant puts it: “If knowledge is power, knowing what we don’t know is wisdom.” And as Jesus put it even better: “Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24).
So here’s the challenge: this week, pick one thing to unlearn and one truth to relearn from Scripture.
Write it down.
Share it with someone.
Live it out.
That’s how discipleship becomes transformation.
Question for You:
What’s one belief, assumption, or habit you feel God is calling you to “think again” about in this season?
Dr. Erika Santiago is a public theologian, Bible scholar, and host of the podcast “No More Silos.” Her work focuses on deconstructing cultural Christianity and guiding others toward authentic discipleship.