They are discussing purpose.
Pastor Greg Laurie recently shared his perspective on faith, loss, and the promise of Heaven during a discussion with psychologist Jordan Peterson on The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast. As the interview neared its conclusion, Laurie reflected on the tragic death of his son, Christopher, who died in a car accident in 2008 at the age of 33. Laurie expressed his Christian belief that he would one day be reunited with his son in Heaven, but emphasized that his son’s place in Heaven was secured not because of their relationship, but due to his own faith in Jesus Christ.
Peterson, who has written about grappling with faith and suffering, commented on the profound grief Laurie experienced, stating that the depth of grief correlates to the depth of love. He argued that grief affirms the value of life, even when it is cut short, and that this loss reflects the immense worth of those we love. Laurie, meanwhile, shared his growing belief in Heaven, describing it as a real, tangible place that is promised in Scripture. He spoke of Heaven not as an abstract concept but as a place of reunion and activity, where people will eat, be with loved ones, and eventually experience a merging of Heaven and Earth.
During the conversation, Peterson asked Laurie how he reconciles the Christian moral imperative to improve the world with the notion of an afterlife. Laurie pointed to the Bible, citing examples like Paul’s vision of Heaven in 2 Corinthians and Jesus’ promise to the thief on the cross. Laurie explained that, while life on Earth has its challenges, the hope of Heaven provides a deeper perspective. Reflecting on his son’s death, Laurie expressed his faith that angels took his son into God’s presence, and he believes that one day he will join him in Heaven.
Laurie spoke about how his faith was solidified through suffering, particularly the loss of his son. He shared that if God had not provided the strength to endure such pain, he would have given up his ministry. Concluding the conversation with a presentation of the Gospel, Laurie reaffirmed his belief in the existence of Heaven and Hell, emphasizing that Heaven is for those who are forgiven, not for those who are merely good. He cited the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, likening it to the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac, where the son was willing to be sacrificed for the sake of a greater purpose.
In a follow-up, Laurie praised Peterson for his intellectual depth and appreciation for the Bible. While Peterson has frequently engaged with Christian themes, he has not explicitly embraced Christianity, instead emphasizing the Bible’s foundational role in Western civilization. In previous interviews, Peterson has warned against the growing influence of identity politics in some churches and criticized religious hypocrisy, especially within evangelical communities. He advised Christians to remain skeptical of religious leaders who may misuse their faith for personal gain, echoing the biblical teaching that “by their fruits, you will know them.”