Did the English Bible translators get it wrong?
What if one of the most important words in the New Testament has been shaping our faith differently than Jesus intended?
In this thought-provoking episode of the Live Faith First Podcast, Elliot Sands sits down with Wayne Jacobsen, co-author of The Shack and co-author of Just Love, to discuss a provocative claim: the Greek word often translated as “righteousness” may be better understood as “justice.”
Together, they explore how this translation choice may have influenced centuries of Christian thought, discipleship, and spiritual formation. More importantly, they discuss how God’s love transforms us from the inside out, leading not to religious performance but to lives marked by justice, compassion, and genuine care for others. Whether you agree with Wayne’s conclusions or simply want to wrestle with an important biblical idea, this conversation will challenge you to think more deeply about what it means to follow Jesus.
Wayne Jacobsen is an author, speaker, and teacher known for helping people discover a deeper, more relational walk with God. After spending two decades in pastoral ministry, Wayne experienced a profound shift in his understanding of God’s love and grace that changed the trajectory of his life and writing. He is the author of numerous books including He Loves Me!, Finding Church, A Language of Healing for a Polarized Nation, and Just Love. Wayne is also widely known as one of the co-authors of the bestselling novel The Shack, which has impacted millions of readers worldwide. Through his writing, podcasts, and speaking ministry, Wayne encourages people to move beyond religious performance and into a vibrant relationship with God rooted in love, freedom, and transformation.
Elliot Sands is the host of the Live Faith First podcast—a dynamic space where faith meets real-world challenges. With a rich background as a pastor, school principal, health-tech co-founder, and now Executive Director of Faith First, Elliot brings deep wisdom and practical insight to every conversation. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he weaves personal experience with thoughtful discussion, tackling tough topics with clarity and compassion. Live Faith First is all about bridging divides—whether in society or the church—encouraging listeners to step beyond echo chambers and build real, meaningful relationships across the aisle, the street, or the table.
Connect with Wayne Jacobsen
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