Through his books, his website, Following Jesus, his blog, and his Facebook group, Kurt Struckmeyer engages with people around the world, inspiring them to live out their faith in meaningful and transformative ways. His work is not just about faith in the abstract but about faith in action, challenging individuals to rethink the essence of discipleship in a modern world.
a journey of faith and thought
Kurt’s journey began with a deep curiosity about the life and teachings of Jesus. Growing up in the 1950s and 1960s, he was shaped by the cultural shifts and social movements of the time. Early on, he questioned how a faith rooted in love and compassion could align with a world marked by inequality, racism, and war. This questioning led him to a lifelong exploration of the intersection of faith and justice.
At the age of twelve, he discovered a very radical and passionate Jesus in the gospels. Later on, Kurt read The Cost of Discipleship by the German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. It is centered on an exposition of the Sermon on the Mount, in which Bonhoeffer spells out what he believes it means to follow Christ. Bonhoeffer wrote this during the rise of Nazi Germany in the 1930s. He contrasts what he calls “cheap grace” with “costly grace.” Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without any demand on the sinner; no real repentance or transformation is demanded or expected. In contrast, costly grace offers a life of discipleship. Cheap grace leaves the sinner fundamentally unchanged, while costly grace offers a life of radical transformation and sacrificial service.
In the preface to his book A Conspiracy of Love, Kurt recounts his experiences as a young adult during the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. Witnessing the struggles for justice and peace, he began to see the teachings of Jesus not as distant historical lessons but as a living, radical call to action. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for his commitment to a theology that prioritizes love, justice, and inclusivity.
After graduating from the Washington University School of Fine Arts in 1969 (now the Sam Fox School of Art + Design), Kurt pursued a varied career at the General Motors Design Center in Warren, Michigan. For over 35 years, he worked in a wide variety of positions as a sculptor, digital technician, process and technology planner, business strategist, historian, writer, and visual communicator, serving under every vice president of the Design Center, except its founder Harley Earl, until his retirement in 2005.
In 2004, Kurt founded the Mustard Seed School of Theology. He has now turned his attention to writing about the future of faith. theology, and the church in a postmodern world.
following Jesus: a platform for change
Kurt’s website, Following Jesus, is a hub for learning, thoughtful reflection, practical guidance, and community engagement. Through articles, essays, and resources, Kurt addresses a wide range of topics, from the Beatitudes and the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount to issues like systemic injustice, inclusive community, nonviolence, and the challenges of modern discipleship.
One of the key themes in Kurt’s writing is the distinction between cultural Christianity and the radical call of Jesus. He critiques the ways in which Christianity has often been co-opted by political and social powers, losing sight of its revolutionary roots. Instead, Kurt invites readers to rediscover a faith that prioritizes compassion, humility, and action over dogma and division.
The Following Jesus Facebook group extends this mission, creating a virtual space where Kurt can share insights from a variety of sources to support and inspire group members in their faith journeys. Through these platforms, Kurt has cultivated a global community of seekers and believers united by a shared commitment to living out the Gospel.
a theology of action
Kurt’s theology is grounded in action. He believes that faith is not merely about what we believe but about how we live. This conviction is evident in his focus on social justice and his call to address the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality and suffering. Whether writing about poverty, racism, or violence, Kurt emphasizes that discipleship demands more than personal piety—it requires a commitment to transforming the world in the spirit of love and justice.
In his writings, Kurt often draws on the teachings of liberation theology, which asserts that God has a special concern for the oppressed and marginalized. He challenges readers to examine their own lives and communities, asking how they can embody the values of the kingdom of God—or what Kurt calls “the conspiracy of love”—in their daily actions. This message resonates deeply in a world where many feel disillusioned by traditional religious institutions but remain hungry for spiritual truth and purpose.
bridging the past and present
One of the strengths of Kurt’s work is his ability to connect the ancient teachings of Jesus with contemporary issues. He brings historical and cultural context to the Gospels, helping readers understand the radical nature of Jesus’ message in his own time. At the same time, he draws parallels to modern struggles, demonstrating how the call to love and justice is as urgent today as it was two thousand years ago.
Kurt’s writing is accessible yet profound, blending scholarly insight with heartfelt conviction. He speaks to both the head and the heart, challenging readers to think deeply while also inspiring them to act boldly. His ability to engage diverse audiences—from lifelong Christians to spiritual seekers—is a testament to the universality of his message.
building a community of disciples
At the heart of Kurt’s work is a desire to build a community of disciples—people who are committed to following Jesus not just in word but in deed. Kurt’s emphasis on community is not just theoretical; it is deeply practical. He provides resources for small groups, churches, and individuals who want to explore what it means to follow Jesus in their own contexts. From discussion guides to action plans, from prayers to liturgies, and from poetry to songs, his work equips people to take the next step in their faith journeys, whether that means volunteering in their local community, advocating for systemic change, or simply reaching out to a neighbor in need.
inspiring the next generation
As someone who has dedicated his life to the teachings of Jesus, Kurt is also passionate about inspiring the next generation of believers and leaders. He recognizes that the world is changing rapidly, and that young people face unique challenges as they navigate questions of faith, identity, and purpose. Through his writing and online engagement, Kurt encourages young people to see faith not as a set of rules but as a dynamic and transformative way of life.
By emphasizing the relevance of Jesus’ teachings to modern issues, Kurt helps young people see how their faith can make a difference in the world. He invites them to join a larger story—a story of love, justice, and hope—that transcends boundaries and inspires change.
a legacy of faith and action
Kurt Struckmeyer is also a prolific author, having written four books that explore faith, theology, and social justice. His works include:
- A Conspiracy of Love: Following Jesus in a Postmodern World
- An Unorthodox Faith: A New Reformation for a Postmodern World
- People of the Way: Passion and Resistance in a Postmodern World
- Justice at the Margins: Jesus’ Parables of Defiance and Disruption
These books offer readers deep insights into the challenges of modern discipleship, the call for justice, and the transformative power of love. Each book reflects Kurt’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues of our time while staying rooted in the timeless message of Jesus.
Kurt Struckmeyer’s life and work are a testament to the power of faith in action. Through his writing, teaching, and community-building, he has helped countless individuals rediscover the radical message of Jesus and apply it to their own lives. His commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and compassion serves as a beacon of hope in a world that often feels divided and uncertain.
As Kurt continues to inspire others through Following Jesus and his other platforms, his message remains clear: the teachings of Jesus are not just words to be admired but a call to be lived. By embracing this call, we can help create a world that reflects the love, justice, and peace that Jesus envisioned. Kurt’s work reminds us that this journey is not easy, but it is worth it—and we are not alone.
contact us
Kurt Struckmeyer may be contacted at kurt@followingjesus.org.
Your comments, questions, suggestions, and critiques are always welcome.
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Thank you for this website and your thoughts. I am actually considering Christianity as an option for me for the first time in my life, at 25. Much like you suggest through out this site (from what I’ve read so far), Jesus (who I admire and am beginning to love) and today’s church don’t really align. I’m trying to navigate my faith, and I don’t want to give up on it. Your insights, along with others, are helping me realize I’m not alone in my thoughts. Thank you!!
Yes, Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life however many denominations of Christianity have twisted his teachings to fit their own agendas. I’m a former Catholic who follows Jesus without the cumbersome institutional baggage. This site is very good and Kurt had provided much inspiration for those wanting to follow Jesus without Christianity and its denominational agendas. Shalom and keep open to the Spirit!
The kingdom of God message of Jesus does not get preached by a lot of pastors. What gets preached most is Paul’s gospel of believing in Jesus so one can attain eternal life. There are two gospels, Jesus’ and Paul’s. Borg, Erhman, DeStefano, Bell and now Struckmeyer are a breath of fresh air for my faith. Thank you.
Are there two Gospels or are certain preachers cherry picking Scripture to appeal to their own or their congregation’s perceived need for theraputic sin-management (shout-out to Dallas Willard)?
Exactly! Jesus is out of the “doctrinal closet” thanks to objective Scripture scholars and many others.
Hi Kurt,
I just came across your challenging website.
Under your discussion of megachurches, you state:
“John Nelson Darby, author of The Purpose-Driven Life and The Purpose-Drive Church, is the founder and pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, a congregation averaging 22,000 weekly attendees on a 120-acre campus.”
I assume naming “John Nelson Darby” as the author of those books is a statement of your view of Pastor Rick Warren as opposed to an editorial oversight. Am I correct?
Thanks. It was an editorial oversight. I don’t quite know how that happened. I have now corrected the text.
Kurt:
The Justice of God and God’s mercy are at logger heads, regardless of whether man’s justice is true or fallible. That is the purpose of the crucifixion of Christ. It satisfied both. Short circuiting God’s Justice and Mercy as you have done badly muddies a clear Gospel message. I am sure you are a great guy and a super nice man and a pleasure to talk to. But, I plan on using in-context excerpts from you article on Social Justice to teach my Sunday school class how to detect and correct deceptive thinking.
The Apostle Paul does not contradict Jesus or the Tanakh in any area with the possible exception keeping Kosher and circumcision. Which fits well with the new covenant promised by God in the book of Jeremiah.
Thanks for posting.
Denominational bias and interpretation have caused great disputes, reactionary movements, and even wars. Jesus never intended to start another religion but to get at the core of all religions which is genuine love (agape), distributive justice as noted in Acts 2, inclusion not exclusion, and the rebuke of power, fame, and fortune which was accepted by those who joined the religion of Rome in the 4th century to avoid any more persecution. Read the Word without the bias of Christianity.
Hi Kurt, I’m a worship director at a Lutheran Church in Canada. I found a creed of love here on your website (which you wrote). I’m wondering if you would grant permission for us to use it as our creed in our service for Valentine’s Day this year (it’s a Sunday for a change). We are live-streaming it as well (so that you’re aware). It is a beautiful statement of faith about the nature of love that Jesus is and that He calls us to.
Kurt can you send me your email? Thanks.
Kurt@followingjesus.org
Great work and a great site- I’m on the same page as you but still trying to convert my Catholic brothers and sisters to follow Jesus instead of the institution of Roman Catholicism. Old habits die hard for one who spent an entire life (73 years) in Catholicism, learning, teaching, administering, presenting, and worshipping. I also consult the likes of James Carroll, author of The Truth at the Heart of the Lie, Thomas Moore author of Care of the Soul, John A. Sanford, John Shelby Spong, and John Dominic Crossan
This is so beautiful and touching 😭🥰! I am also a humble servant of Christ!
Do you offer any academic scholarships for disadvantaged children?
I’m sorry, but we are not an actual school with a physical campus.
I feel fortunate to have found your website. One of my major criticisms of mainstream Christianity is its leaders generally fails to provide guidance about how to apply Jesus perspective as a way to deal with the real world, day to day problems of life. Instead, their attention seems primarily focused on presenting evidence that Jesus was the son of God.
Here is my question for you: since your perspective focuses on how your interpretation of Jesus can help us live better in the post modern world, will you explain what you mean by “postmodern”?
Thank you,
Joe Gorton
Here is an introduction: https://followingjesus.org/the-postmodern-world/
I have had a wonderful experience of the presence of Jesus in my life. So I started to attend church and bible study. I tried different denominations and tried to follow but found every time I went I would have so much turmoil and confusion in my heart. The Jesus of my prayers and experience was so different from the Jesus they described. Their version of Jesus’ love is incredibly conditional, it felt if I didn’t give my soul up to them in the name of Jesus I would be damned. It didn’t sound at all loving. I cannot stand church, it feels like a show for each other. I’ve never had trouble talking to people, I can make friends at the supermarket talking about butter, but at church nobody wants to engage. They seem afraid of me, or proclaim I must repent for all sorts of sins I honestly have never committed but they assume I have. It’s so alienating and lonely. I come back home in tears feeling that its all wrong, but could not articulate rationally why. Your writing has put logic and form to the feeling in my heart. I have also recently read in Matthew that I should not pray for show but quietly at home… so I feel like I’d rather not attend. Now I have the theological references for explaining my rejecting their church is not rejecting Jesus after all.
My experience is similar to yours. Where are you currently at in your journey?
Thought you might find “A House without Walls” and “Noah in a Cellular World: Mitosis” interesting. They are free and down-loadable and can be found on my website.
This is a wonderful site. I was led here after reading Tolstoy’s What I Believe. The implications are confounding and dumbfounding as I am a Criminal lawyer by training and trade.
I believe that the Spirit of God is opening up my eyes to an unobstructed view of what following the commandments of Jesus really means! It is a tremendous thing for one to be presented with the naked truth for what one does thereafter in response is determination as one has no excuse. Jesus saves!
Excellent website. In my journey I have come to the belief that the Bible is primarily about domination. According to the Bible, man was meant to have dominion over creation but, instead, decided to dominate other men instead. The original domination was man over woman, then agriculturist (sedentary) over pastoralists (nomadic), then City-States, then Nation States. This gets us to Genesis 11. The rest of the Bible are examples of the themes introduced in the first 11 chapters. The Mesopotamian LUGAL (Big Men) are the Mighty men of old, the “Sons of God” are the first Divine Kings, and the stories of Kings and Pharaohs taking Abraham’s and Issac’s wives are examples of ‘Sons of God’ taking the ‘Daughters of Men’. This culminated with the story of Joseph where he uses debt to disenfranchise the people of their money and land, eventually resulting in their enslavement, serving as the paradigm of the history of subjection by the aristocracy. This resulted in an “apocalypse” where the Egyptians turned on Israel, resulting in the Exodus. Moses’ response was to make redemption and jubilee laws the centerpiece of his legal system. Fast forward to Jesus’ announcement in his hometown of Galilee, and he, also, makes the laws of redemption and jubilee the centerpiece of his mission