Faith Foundations
Faith isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you have questions, you’re going through something, or you’re ready to explore deeply, there’s a place for you to begin.
Exploring Things of Faith?
Faith can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out or coming back after time away. You might have questions, doubts, or wonder where to even begin. That’s exactly what this space is for.
Here, we explore the foundations of Christian faith in a straightforward, honest way. No
pressure. No assumptions. Just clear answers to real questions about God, Jesus, faith, and
what it all means for your life.
I'm curious about Christianity
You’ve never really explored faith before, or maybe you grew up in a different tradition. You’re open to learning, but you’re starting from the beginning.
This pathway is for you if:
- You’ve never read the Bible
- You’re not sure what Christians actually believe
- You have basic questions like “Who is God?” or “Why Jesus?”
- You want to explore without pressure
I'm open, but I have questions
You’re interested in faith, but you need honest answers. You’re not ready to commit to something you don’t fully understand, and that’s okay.
This pathway is for you if:
- You have doubts or questions about Christianity
- You’re comparing different worldviews or religions
- You want to understand what Christians believe and why
- You’re looking for intellectual honesty, not just emotion
I used to be involved
You have a faith background—maybe from childhood or a previous season of life—but you walked away for various reasons. You’re wondering if there’s a way back.
This pathway is for you if:
- You grew up in church, but it didn’t stick
- You’ve been hurt by church or Christians
- Your childhood faith didn’t survive adult questions
- You’re reconsidering faith after time away
Life threw me off track
You believe, but somewhere along the way, through crisis, busyness, or just life, you lost momentum. You want to restart, but you’re not sure how.
This pathway is for you if:
- You used to be active in your faith, but drifted
- A life crisis shook your faith
- You got busy, and faith became background noise
- You want to rebuild what’s been neglected
8 Essential Topics
Walk through the basics of Christian faith, from “What is the Bible?” to “How do I respond to Jesus?” Each topic builds on the last, giving you a clear path forward.
See Below
Simple Reading Plans
Never read the Bible? Not sure where to start? Our reading plans guide you through the story in bite-sized pieces, 10 minutes a day, with context and questions to help you reflect.
Talk with a Coach
Sometimes you need someone to talk to. Our Formation Coaches are here to answer your questions and help you take your next step, whatever that looks like for you.
Want to Do this with Others?
Not Ready for Any of This?
Just want to talk to someone?
Sometimes you don’t need content—you need a conversation. Connect with a Formation Coach who can listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you figure out your next step. No pressure. No agenda. Just honest dialogue.
Big Questions
- Is God real?
- Why does God allow suffering?
- Did Jesus really rise from the dead?
- What happens when we die?
- Can I be forgiven?
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Exploring Faith
Q: Do I need to believe anything to start?
A: Nope. Curiosity is enough. Come as you are—skeptic, seeker, or somewhere in between.
Q: Is this just for people who don’t go to church?
A: Not at all. This content is for anyone exploring or re-examining faith. If you’re already connected at Southside and want to go deeper in your journey, check out our Faith Stages pathway.
Q: What if I have doubts?
A: Good. Honest questions and real doubts are welcome here. Faith isn’t about pretending to have all the answers. It’s about taking the next step even when you’re unsure.
Q: What if I don’t live near Southside?
A: That’s okay. All of this content is free and available online. If you’re local, we’d love to connect you with a group or coach. If you’re not, you can still explore and reach out with questions.
Q: How long does this take?
A: You can move at your own pace. Some people go through all 8 topics in a few weeks. Others take months. There’s no rush.
Q: Do I have to do this on my own?
A: No, Starting Point is offered on your own like this, in a Starting Point Group, or one-on-one with a Starting Point Coach. Click here to sign up to do Starting Point with others.
Q: Will someone contact me?
A: Only if you ask us to. You can browse all the content anonymously. If you request coaching, pastoral care, or join a group, then yes, we’ll reach out.
Q: What’s the difference between this and the Faith Stages section?
A: Great question. “Exploring Faith” is for people who are new to faith, returning after time away, or just have questions. “Faith Stages” is for people who are already following Jesus and want to grow deeper. Not sure which fits? Start here.