Why I’m a Fan of Jesus Christ, But I’m Not a Christian

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Can you appreciate Jesus without worshiping him? Can you learn from his teachings while choosing to honor and explore your own ancestral lineage?

In this episode of Living Deeply, Markieta explores why she considers herself a fan of the Jesus Christ portrayed in biblical stories while no longer identifying as a Christian. She reflects on Jesus as a first-century Jewish man with his own ancestry, culture, and history—and asks why so many Black Americans were taught to develop a spiritual relationship with Jesus while often knowing very little about their own ancestors.

Markieta also explores a question at the center of her evolving spirituality: Why was talking to Jesus considered normal, while connecting with our own ancestors was often portrayed as something to fear?

This episode isn't about attacking Jesus or telling anyone what they should believe. It's about questioning inherited beliefs, examining the complicated relationship between Christianity and Black American history, and making room for ancestral connection, curiosity, and spiritual exploration.

Markieta shares why she can admire teachings attributed to Jesus about love, compassion, justice, and caring for marginalized people without believing that admiration requires worship.

For her, Jesus can have a seat in the library without owning the entire library.