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Send us a text(REPRISE) For a second time, Ken welcomes Rev. Ben Cremer to the podcast for Season 5. Ken starts by thanking Ben for that first interview, "Myths We Believe," which is far and away the most downloaded podcast of Ken's more than 300 episodes (exceeding the former first-place interview with Kristin Kobes Du Mez). Ben is a prolific author, just finishing up the manuscript of his first book. He has a big audience for his newsletter, which is delivered weekly on Sunday mornings. He calls it "Into The Gray." It's a resource of books, podcasts, and then a thoughtful essay of his own around important issues of the day. Ken chose three to discuss on this podcast - first, "A Troubling Conversation" highlighting the commonly held doctrine of Total Depravity. The second contemplates the common default answer when Christians encounter those who hold opposite views. They'll say, "Well, they aren't REAL Christians." The third addresses a spiritual discipline that is widely ignored in the traditions both Ben and Ken grew up in - lament. Ben brings fresh, sometimes provocative thinking to all three issues. Ken predicts that this conversation will be another that breaks records. SHOW NOTESSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com
In the past decade, there has been one stable voting bloc: white evangelical Christians. Their support has been at a constant 80 per cent for Donald Trump, according to historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez. In her book, Jesus and John Wayne, she describes the Trump era as the latest chapter in a long story of exclusion, patriarchy, and Christian nationalism in the evangelical church. *This episode originally aired on Oct. 18, 2024.
Moira and Adrian welcome historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez (Jesus and John Wayne) to talk about what happens to conservative "preacher" masculinity in the age of swaggering, crass and often libertine sexuality.
Text us your questions!This is a re-release of an episode from our first season: our first conversation with Kristin Kobes Du Mez, which happened to fall just after January 6, 2021. It seems fitting to revisit it now.=====In this episode, we chat with Kristin Kobes Du Mez about her book that's been making waves and is brilliantly titled Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation. This book is probably our favorite of 2020 and is a must-read. During the course of this interview, we chat about everything from toxic masculinity and power hungry religious leaders to Amy Grant and Tiffany. Seriously.Content note: this episode contains some mild profanity.=====Want to support us?The best way is to subscribe to our Patreon. Annual memberships are available for a 10% discount.If you'd rather make a one-time donation, you can contribute through our PayPal. Other important info: Rate & review us on Apple & Spotify Follow us on social media at @PPWBPodcast Watch & comment on YouTube Email us at pastorandphilosopher@gmail.com Cheers!
Ken welcomes back to the podcast the originator of the hashtag that launched a movement: #exvangelical, Blake Chastain. They discuss his new book, Exvangelical and Beyond: How American Christianity Went Radical and the Movement Fighting Back. An undergraduate at an evangelical university in Central Indiana, Blake had questions - about the Bible, the exclusive truth claims, the identification with conservative politics, the indifference to Earth care, to race, to social justice, and finally, the full-on embrace of MAGA Trumpism. It was a crisis of faith. When his hashtag went viral, CBS called him for a life-changing interview. Blake started The Exvangelical Podcast. In a wide-ranging conversation, Ken and Blake explore the history of evangelicalism and the contributing factors that have led to the evangelicalism we know today. SHOW NOTESPurchase Blake's Book on AmazonBecome a Patron | Ken's Substack Page | Writer's BlockSupport the show
If you're feeling bewildered and unsure about how to navigate the influence of white male voters in the US election, then you are not alone! The current political landscape can leave you feeling overwhelmed and lost, especially when it seems like your voice isn't being heard. But what if I told you there's a way to understand and leverage your influence as a white male voter? Let's dive into the factors that are shaping the political decisions and explore how you can make informed choices that truly matter. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how economic conditions shape US elections and your role in influencing them. Discover effective strategies for engaging and empowering young white male voters in the political process. Explore the pivotal role of digital advertising in shaping political campaigns and its impact on voter engagement. Address concerns about election integrity and learn how to ensure your voice is heard in the electoral process. Learn how to contribute to and build inclusive political movements for a stronger, more united post-election landscape. My special guest is Mike Nellis Mike Nellis, a seasoned veteran in Democratic politics and social impact work, has left an indelible mark on the political landscape. Nellis has been instrumental as the Founder and CEO of Authentic, a digital-first fundraising and advertising agency in shaping digital advertising and fundraising strategies, having raised over a billion dollars for Democratic campaigns. Notably, as a former senior advisor to Kamala Harris and the visionary organizer of White Dudes for Harris, Mike Nellis brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities within the political sphere. The key moments in this episode are: 00:06:03 - Factors Contributing to Election Results 00:10:33 - Shifting Dynamics Among Young White Males 00:12:19 - Importance of Engaging with Fox News 00:13:28 - Inclusive Campaigning 00:15:21 - Impact of Cultural Themes on Election 00:20:09 - Role of Social Media in Shaping Views 00:21:06 - Cultural Shifts and Divisions 00:23:38 - The impact of technology on personal connections 00:27:10 - Impact of the election on women 00:29:48 - Using privilege for good 00:30:00 - Prioritization and self-interest in voting 00:34:21 - Tailoring communication for different audiences 00:35:00 - Importance of Shared Language and Positive Male Role Models 00:37:49 - Overcorrection in Society and Politics 00:39:25 - Trust in Election Votes "Go find the thing that grounds you in the things that you love and go find your corner of the world and make it a better place." - Mike Nellis Get involved in your local Democratic Party and work to improve it. This could include running for office or supporting candidates who align with your values. Stand up against misogyny and sexism in your community and call out inappropriate behavior when you see it. Use your privilege to help change systems that perpetuate discrimination. Engage in conversations with other men to address issues of sexism and misogyny. Organize calls or meetings to discuss and reject harmful attitudes and behaviors. Support positive male role models and engage in efforts to redefine masculinity. Encourage empathy, compassion, and respect in male communities. Reflect on your own privilege and consider how you can use it to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Take action to make your corner of the world a better place, whether through political engagement, community involvement, or personal advocacy. Listen to our EPS with Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, author of "Jesus and John Wayne," on toxic masculinity and US politics & religion. https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you're feeling bewildered and unsure about how to navigate the influence of white male voters in the US election, then you are not alone! The current political landscape can leave you feeling overwhelmed and lost, especially when it seems like your voice isn't being heard. But what if I told you there's a way to understand and leverage your influence as a white male voter? Let's dive into the factors that are shaping the political decisions and explore how you can make informed choices that truly matter. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how economic conditions shape US elections and your role in influencing them. Discover effective strategies for engaging and empowering young white male voters in the political process. Explore the pivotal role of digital advertising in shaping political campaigns and its impact on voter engagement. Address concerns about election integrity and learn how to ensure your voice is heard in the electoral process. Learn how to contribute to and build inclusive political movements for a stronger, more united post-election landscape. My special guest is Mike Nellis Mike Nellis, a seasoned veteran in Democratic politics and social impact work, has left an indelible mark on the political landscape. Nellis has been instrumental as the Founder and CEO of Authentic, a digital-first fundraising and advertising agency in shaping digital advertising and fundraising strategies, having raised over a billion dollars for Democratic campaigns. Notably, as a former senior advisor to Kamala Harris and the visionary organizer of White Dudes for Harris, Mike Nellis brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities within the political sphere. The key moments in this episode are: 00:06:03 - Factors Contributing to Election Results 00:10:33 - Shifting Dynamics Among Young White Males 00:12:19 - Importance of Engaging with Fox News 00:13:28 - Inclusive Campaigning 00:15:21 - Impact of Cultural Themes on Election 00:20:09 - Role of Social Media in Shaping Views 00:21:06 - Cultural Shifts and Divisions 00:23:38 - The impact of technology on personal connections 00:27:10 - Impact of the election on women 00:29:48 - Using privilege for good 00:30:00 - Prioritization and self-interest in voting 00:34:21 - Tailoring communication for different audiences 00:35:00 - Importance of Shared Language and Positive Male Role Models 00:37:49 - Overcorrection in Society and Politics 00:39:25 - Trust in Election Votes "Go find the thing that grounds you in the things that you love and go find your corner of the world and make it a better place." - Mike Nellis Get involved in your local Democratic Party and work to improve it. This could include running for office or supporting candidates who align with your values. Stand up against misogyny and sexism in your community and call out inappropriate behavior when you see it. Use your privilege to help change systems that perpetuate discrimination. Engage in conversations with other men to address issues of sexism and misogyny. Organize calls or meetings to discuss and reject harmful attitudes and behaviors. Support positive male role models and engage in efforts to redefine masculinity. Encourage empathy, compassion, and respect in male communities. Reflect on your own privilege and consider how you can use it to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Take action to make your corner of the world a better place, whether through political engagement, community involvement, or personal advocacy. Listen to our EPS with Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, author of "Jesus and John Wayne," on toxic masculinity and US politics & religion. https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For a second time, Ken welcomes Rev. Ben Cremer to the podcast for Season 5. Ken starts by thanking Ben for that first interview, "Myths We Believe," which is far and away the most downloaded podcast of Ken's more than 300 episodes (exceeding the former first-place interview with Kristin Kobes Du Mez). Ben is a prolific author, just finishing up the manuscript of his first book. He has a big audience for his newsletter, which is delivered weekly on Sunday mornings. He calls it "Into The Gray." It's a resource of books, podcasts, and then a thoughtful essay of his own around important issues of the day. Ken chose three to discuss on this podcast - first, "A Troubling Conversation" highlighting the commonly held doctrine of Total Depravity. The second contemplates the common default answer when Christians encounter those who hold opposite views. They'll say, "Well, they aren't REAL Christians." The third addresses a spiritual discipline that is widely ignored in the traditions both Ben and Ken grew up in - lament. Ben brings fresh, sometimes provocative thinking to all three issues. Ken predicts that this conversation will be another that breaks records. SHOW NOTESSign up for Ben's Newsletter INTO THE GRAY | Become a PatronKen's Substact Page | Philip Yancey's Blog Site - Hole in the WallSupport the show
Donald Trump's victory in the 2016 U.S. Presidential election might have been a surprise to some. But to historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez, it was the latest chapter in a long relationship between white American masculinity and evangelical Christianity. As the 2024 election draws near, Du Mez shares how exclusion, patriarchy, and Christian nationalism are the basis for the evangelical church.
Text us your questions!After more than three years, Kristin Kobes Du Mez is back on the show to discuss her new short film For Our Daughters, which examines the connection between the culture of submission and sexual abuse within the evangelical church and the Christian nationalist effort to influence the 2024 presidential election. It tells harrowing stories of survival and coverup and puts a spotlight on the theological and ecclesial structures that facilitate abuse and wield enormous power in our society. Randy and Elliot chat with Kristin about the film, as well as what she's been up to with the explosion of Jesus and John Wayne since our last conversation.=====Join us at Theology Beer Camp 2024!Get your tickets here to join us in Denver Oct. 17-19. Use code PASTPHIL2024. Let us know if you sign up!=====Want to support us?The best way is to subscribe to our Patreon. Annual memberships are available for a 10% discount.If you'd rather make a one-time donation, you can contribute through our PayPal. Other important info: Rate & review us on Apple & Spotify Follow us on social media at @PPWBPodcast Watch & comment on YouTube Email us at pastorandphilosopher@gmail.com Cheers!
In this bonus episode, Elyse interviews Kristin Kobes Du Mez, author of Jesus and John Wayne about her new film, For Our Daughters. In this documentary, which is a collaboration between women who were sexually assaulted, shamed, and blamed by their churches, and attorney Rachael Denhollender, Du Mez connects the dots between toxic masculinity, the treatment of many women in the evangelical church, the lust for power resident in the Christian Nationalist movement, and our current political context. The film and other resources may be accessed for free at https://www.forourdaughtersfilm.com/ or on YouTube. Due to the nature of some of the topics, this podcast comes with a discretion warning. Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a NYT best selling author and professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Norte Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. Her most recent book is Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation.
On September 26, 2024, Calvin University history professor, Kristin Kobes Du Mez, released a new documentary entitled For Our Daughters: Stories of Abuse, Betrayal, and Resistance in the Evangelical Church. Over the past few weeks this 29-minute documentary has been making waves in the broader church, both in the CRC and beyond. So for this week's episode we decided we've offer some of our thoughts on the documentary, both what we appreciated and what we thought was unhelpful, in order to add the conversation it has undoubtedly begun. Watch the documentary for free at https://youtu.be/IkES4X_qb6c?feature=shared Visit www.almondvalley.org for information about Almond Valley Christian Reformed Church in Ripon, CA. Music by Jonathan Ogden used with permission.
Want to understand the impact of evangelicalism on politics and how to make a difference? Discover how a historian, NY Times best-selling author and filmmaker are centering survivor voices to bring about change. Get ready to dive into a conversation that's making waves and sparking crucial conversations. Stay tuned for more. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the impact of evangelicalism on politics and uncover its influence on key societal issues. Understand the significance of a survivor-centered approach in abuse documentaries and its potential to reshape narratives. Gain insight into the historical context of gender roles in evangelicalism and its relevance in contemporary discussions. Uncover the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections and its implications for the political landscape. Discover the essential role of historians in understanding current social issues and shaping informed perspectives. My special guest is Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, a New York Times bestselling author and professor of history and gender studies at Calvin University, is known for her groundbreaking work on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. Her book Jesus and John Wayne has had a significant impact, shedding light on the influence of evangelicalism on politics and societal trends. In her latest project, the documentary For Our Daughters, Dr. Du Mez delves into the survivor-centered approach, highlighting the voices of abuse survivors within evangelical churches, particularly the Southern Baptist community. Through her extensive research and expertise, Dr. Du Mez offers a unique historical context, outlining the complex dynamics that have shaped the evangelical landscape and its impact on contemporary social issues, including the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections. Her work continues to be an essential resource for educators and historians seeking to understand the evolving intersection of evangelicalism and politics. Watch the documentary For Our Daughters to hear the impactful stories of survivors and gain a deeper understanding of the abuse crisis in evangelical churches. Read Kristin Kobes Du Mez's book Jesus and John Wayne to gain historical insights into the intersection of gender, religion, and politics in evangelical spaces. Join the Difference Maker Community on Patreon to access exclusive interviews with Kristin Kobes Du Mez, where she unpacks specific calls to action. Visit Kristin's Substack Du Mez Connections for more of her writing and insights on gender, religion, and politics. Explore the resources and organizations listed on the For Our Daughters film website to support survivors and bring better practices to faith communities. Listen to EPS 39 where Dr. Du Mez discusses her book Jesus and John Wayne. The key moments in this episode are: 00:13:17 - Comparison of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:14:27 - Patterns of Support for Powerful Men 00:16:31 - Political and Hierarchical Networks 00:20:10 - Intersection of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:23:53 - Default Response to Abuse 00:27:46 - Survivor-Centered Approach 00:29:45 - The Power Dynamics Within Evangelicalism 00:30:44 - Recognizing the Prevalence of Predators 00:32:40 - Impact of the Film "For Our Daughters" 00:37:03 - Undecided Voters and the Importance of Democracy 00:42:31 - Advocating for Survivors and the Impact of Silence Podcast Social Media Links https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Want to understand the impact of evangelicalism on politics and how to make a difference? Discover how a historian, NY Times best-selling author and filmmaker are centering survivor voices to bring about change. Get ready to dive into a conversation that's making waves and sparking crucial conversations. Stay tuned for more. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the impact of evangelicalism on politics and uncover its influence on key societal issues. Understand the significance of a survivor-centered approach in abuse documentaries and its potential to reshape narratives. Gain insight into the historical context of gender roles in evangelicalism and its relevance in contemporary discussions. Uncover the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections and its implications for the political landscape. Discover the essential role of historians in understanding current social issues and shaping informed perspectives. My special guest is Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, a New York Times bestselling author and professor of history and gender studies at Calvin University, is known for her groundbreaking work on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. Her book Jesus and John Wayne has had a significant impact, shedding light on the influence of evangelicalism on politics and societal trends. In her latest project, the documentary For Our Daughters, Dr. Du Mez delves into the survivor-centered approach, highlighting the voices of abuse survivors within evangelical churches, particularly the Southern Baptist community. Through her extensive research and expertise, Dr. Du Mez offers a unique historical context, outlining the complex dynamics that have shaped the evangelical landscape and its impact on contemporary social issues, including the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections. Her work continues to be an essential resource for educators and historians seeking to understand the evolving intersection of evangelicalism and politics. Watch the documentary For Our Daughters to hear the impactful stories of survivors and gain a deeper understanding of the abuse crisis in evangelical churches. Read Kristin Kobes Du Mez's book Jesus and John Wayne to gain historical insights into the intersection of gender, religion, and politics in evangelical spaces. Join the Difference Maker Community on Patreon to access exclusive interviews with Kristin Kobes Du Mez, where she unpacks specific calls to action. Visit Kristin's Substack Du Mez Connections for more of her writing and insights on gender, religion, and politics. Explore the resources and organizations listed on the For Our Daughters film website to support survivors and bring better practices to faith communities. Listen to EPS 39 where Dr. Du Mez discusses her book Jesus and John Wayne. The key moments in this episode are: 00:13:17 - Comparison of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:14:27 - Patterns of Support for Powerful Men 00:16:31 - Political and Hierarchical Networks 00:20:10 - Intersection of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:23:53 - Default Response to Abuse 00:27:46 - Survivor-Centered Approach 00:29:45 - The Power Dynamics Within Evangelicalism 00:30:44 - Recognizing the Prevalence of Predators 00:32:40 - Impact of the Film "For Our Daughters" 00:37:03 - Undecided Voters and the Importance of Democracy 00:42:31 - Advocating for Survivors and the Impact of Silence Podcast Social Media Links https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textFrom Kristin Kobes Du Mez, the creator/author of Jesus and John Wayne, comes a powerful new documentary highlighting how a culture of submission and sexual abuse in the evangelical church ties directly to the Christian nationalist quest to use the outcome of the 2024 election to deprive all American women of basic democratic rights. FOR OUR DAUGHTERS speaks to all women of faith, encouraging them to use their voices and their votes to ensure that their daughters will have the rights to health and happiness guaranteed to all Americans.Learn more about the film: https://www.forourdaughtersfilm.com/Watch the film on YouTube: https://youtu.be/IkES4X_qb6c?si=8ct7CUL6-x5NkQqJGuest Bio:Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. She has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC News, Religion News Service, and Christianity Today, and has been interviewed on NPR, CBS, and the BBC, among other outlets. Her most recent book is Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation. "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/
In this conversation, Kristin Kobes Du Mez dives deep into the hidden crisis of abuse and cover-ups within the church. She pulls back the curtain on the disturbing patterns she's uncovered - where abusers are often quickly forgiven and restored, while victims are shamed and silenced. Kristin shares how her research for the acclaimed book "Jesus and John Wayne" led her to uncover these systemic issues, and how she felt compelled to give a platform to the brave women who have come forward with their stories. We explore the complex dynamics at play - the fear of losing power and reputation that drives the cover-ups, the authoritarian tendencies that enable abuse, and the urgent need for true accountability and justice within the church. This is a conversation that challenges us to confront hard truths, to stand up for the vulnerable, and to imagine a path forward where the church truly reflects the radical love and justice of Christ.Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. She has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC News, Religion News Service, and Christianity Today, and has been interviewed on NPR, CBS, and the BBC, among other outlets. Her most recent book is Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation.Kristin's Documentary:For Our DaughtersKristin's Book:Jesus and John WayneJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowSupport the show
Renowned historian and New York Times bestselling author, Kristin Kobes Du Mez (Jesus and John Wayne) explores the culture of submission and sexual abuse within the evangelical community in her riveting documentary, FOR OUR DAUGHTERS, available to stream on September 26.Directed by Emmy award-winning filmmaker Carl Byker, the film draws a direct line from the culture of abuse created by evangelical leaders to their fervent support for a presidential candidate who has bragged about abusing women.For Our Daughters is available online September 26.FOR OUR DAUGHTERS features sit-down interviews with victims and whistleblowers of sexual abuse in the SBC, including acclaimed author Christa Brown (Baptistland), featured in the landmark 2019 investigation from the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News. The groundbreaking report examined sexual misconduct reports across the Southern Baptist Convention, and found hundreds of church leaders and volunteers across 20 states who had been criminally charged with sex crimes since 2000, leading to more than 700 victims. Interviews with survivor-advocates Tiffany Thigpen, Jules Woodson, Rachael Denhollander (What Is a Girl Worth), and Cait West (Rift) are also featured, highlighting their efforts to bring justice and reform to the church.A timely exploration of the intersection between faith, politics, and women's rights in America, the film honors the brave survivors who have shared their stories, often at great cost. It delves into how the church has cared more about power and political influence than love, and how the harm done to women and children threatens to extend beyond faith communities given what is at stake this election season."Just months after Jesus and John Wayne released, three conservative evangelical women asked to speak with me," says Du Mez. "To my surprise, they thanked me and asked how they could help. 'It's too late for us,' they told me. 'We've made our choices, and we can't walk away from the lives we've made. But we want something different for our daughters.' I've carried their words with me. This film is for them, and for their daughters."Abuse within the evangelical community starkly contradicts Jesus' teachings about women, which emphasize love, respect, and honor. By exposing the abuse and the abusers who distort God's name to justify their actions, FOR OUR DAUGHTERS challenges women to be a driving force within their own communities. The film calls on women of faith to raise their voices and wisely consider their vote as a means to protect the health, happiness, and liberties of their daughters and granddaughters.FOR OUR DAUGHTERS is executive produced by Kenneth Harbaugh, and Charlie Sadoff, and will be available to stream for free on YouTube starting September 26.Resources for sexual and spiritual abuse survivors can be found at forourdaughtersfilm.com.✖️✖️✖️Support the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, visit courage365.org/need-help✖️✖️✖️CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:preacherboyspodcast.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@PreacherBoyshttps://www.facebook.com/preacherboysdoc/https://twitter.com/preacherboysdochttps://www.instagram.com/preacherboyspodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@preacherboyspodTo connect with a community that shares the Preacher Boys Podcast's mission to expose abuse in the IFB, join the OFFICIAL Preacher Boys Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403898676438188/✖️✖️✖️The content presented in this video is for informational and educational purposes only. All individuals and entities discussed are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers.This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PreacherBoys and get on your way to being your best self.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/preacher-boys-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Today, we're talking all about the recently-released Confession of Evangelical Conviction:- What the confession is and what it says- Why we signed it and got involved promoting it- How the American church got to the point where a confession of very basic political theology like this is necessary- And after that conversation, we talk the many layers of Christian nationalism involved in the debacle at Trump's recent trip to Arlington National CemeteryMentioned on the episode:- The Confession of Evangelical Conviction, and the associated resources- The video we produced to promote the confessionCredits- Follow KTF Press on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. Subscribe to get our bonus episodes and other benefits at KTFPress.com.- Follow host Jonathan Walton on Facebook Instagram, and Threads.- Follow host Sy Hoekstra on Mastodon.- Our theme song is “Citizens” by Jon Guerra – listen to the whole song on Spotify.- Our podcast art is by Robyn Burgess – follow her and see her other work on Instagram.- Editing by Multitude Productions- Transcripts by Joyce Ambale and Sy Hoekstra.- Production by Sy Hoekstra and our incredible subscribersTranscriptIntroduction[An acoustic guitar softly plays six notes in a major scale, the first three ascending and the last three descending, with a keyboard pad playing the tonic in the background. Both fade out as Jonathan Walton says “This is a KTF Press podcast.”]Sy Hoekstra: When we first started doing this work and we published our anthology, we went on a couple of podcasts about it. A common thing that people asked of us at the time was, where do you think the White American church, where do you think the like 81 percent of the church, the White evangelical church that voted for Trump is going? And the first time I said it, I sort of surprised myself and I was like, look, it's being cut off the vine for not bearing good fruit and thrown in the fire. There's been a long time coming of a divorce, like a complete split between White evangelicals in America and followers of Jesus.[The song “Citizens” by Jon Guerra fades in. Lyrics: “I need to know there is justice/ That it will roll in abundance/ And that you're building a city/ Where we arrive as immigrants/ And you call us citizens/ And you welcome us as children home.” The song fades out.]Sy Hoekstra: Welcome to Shake the Dust, seeking Jesus, confronting injustice. I'm Sy Hoekstra.Jonathan Walton: And I'm Jonathan Walton.Sy Hoekstra: We have a great show for you today. We're doing something a little bit different. We are talking about a bit of a movement, a little, a confession that we have signed onto that we're a part of that we're producing some media around that you may have seen by the time this episode comes out. And it's a confession of sort of evangelical faithfulness to Jesus in a political context. And it is probably a little bit off the beaten path of kind of some of the political commentary that we normally engage in. And we wanted to talk to you about why we think it is a good and strategic thing for us to do during this season, give you some of our thinking behind how we kind of strategize politically and think about ourselves as part of a larger theological and political movement.So I think this will be a really good conversation. We're also gonna get into our Which Tab Is Still Open and talk to you about Christian nationalism and whiteness through the lens of Donald Trump doing absurd things at Arlington National Cemetery [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Yes.Sy Hoekstra: But we will get into all of that in a moment. Before we do, Jonathan Walton.Jonathan Walton: Hey, remember, if you like what you hear and read from us at KTF Press and would like for it to continue beyond the election season, I need you to do two things. Go to KTFPress.com and become a paid subscriber. Now, you could also tell other people to do that as well if you've already done that. We've got a ways to go if we're going to have enough people to sustain the work, but we think it's valuable, and I hope you do too. So go to KTFPress.com, sign up, and that gets you all of the bonus episodes of this show, access to our monthly Zoom calls with the two of us and more. So again, KTFPress.com. Become a paid subscriber.What is the Evangelical Confession of Conviction, and Why Is KTF Involved?Sy Hoekstra: All right, Jonathan, let's get started in our conversation. We've signed onto this document called The Confession of Evangelical Conviction. We've produced some media around it. First of all, what is it and what does it say?Some Basic Political Theology That We Need to Restate at This Cultural Moment with UnityJonathan Walton: [laughs] Well, I think the question of what it is, it's words [Sy laughs]. Like there's these things that we put together, it's words. And I think the reason that it's powerful is because of when and how it's said. And so these are basic confessions that every Christian should believe, but it seems like the reason that we're doing it right now and that I've signed onto is because there are seasons when the discipleship and formation of the church needs to be plain and centered. And so being able to say, “I give allegiance to Christ alone,” and then have that be reverberated across denominations, across movements of quote- unquote, Christians around the country that are usually so disparate, they usually don't communicate, they usually disagree with each other in very public ways, to say, “Hey, hey, hey.”We need people to understand who don't follow Jesus, that when Gandhi said, “I like Christ, I don't like Christians,” that's part of the problem. We are part of that problem. Where we don't articulate what we know, what we believe, what we know to be true. I think this is an articulation of that, speaking particularly to a cultural and political and social moment that needs the clarity that Jesus can bring.Sy Hoekstra: Yeah. So this is just to get into the weeds of it. It's a confession signed by I would say, the sort of extreme ends, at least to the people that we know about right now, I don't know who's gonna sign it in future, but center-right to more progressive left. And the basic confessions, like the seven statements of the confession are, “We give our allegiance to Jesus Christ alone. We will lead with love, not fear. We submit to the truth of Scripture. We believe the Gospel heals every worldly division. We are committed to the prophetic mission of the Church. We value every person as created in God's image.” And “We recognize godly leaders by their character.” So this is very basic theology [laughs] like you said. And you got a little bit at why it matters to put this out there, why we are involved. I agree with you. I think it's more about the context and it's also about who is saying it more than it is about the content.Because, and by the way, we should say we are giving you our reasons for signing this and why we think it's important. This is not… like there's a group of people that were involved in writing it, so there's lots of people involved who we don't know precisely why they signed [laughs] or precisely why the people who wrote it decided it was necessary. We're talking to you about our opinions. So to me, if you have something that says we pledge our allegiance to Christ alone, that's a rebuke of Christian nationalism to me.We judge godly leaders by their character, that's a rebuke of people who argue that Trump is a godly leader or a leader who has been appointed by God in some way or another. So those are important things to say. And it's with people across a pretty big spectrum of, as I said, the political range. Would Jonathan and I go a lot further than this if we said what we thought is important for political discipleship? Yes, we would, and you know that, because you've heard our other episodes. Or if you haven't, go listen to our other episodes [laughs]. We would go a lot further than that, yes. But we think, I think it's good to work with a broad range of people during a political campaign.Reaching a Broad Audience and Pushing the American Church to ChangeSy Hoekstra: Like I think when you're talking about discipleship at a moment when tensions are extremely high around theology and politics, it is good to do these kinds of things where you are trying to scale your efforts.Where you're trying to reach as many people as possible in the hopes that you will change some minds, both so that they will more faithfully follow Jesus, and in this specific context, so they won't vote for Donald Trump. That's one of my personal reasons for being involved in this [laughs]. And that's how you do campaigns in general. That's how campaigns operate. You try and call as many people as you can. You try and put commercials out there as widely as you can toward your targeted audience, whatever. Not in the hopes that the vast majority of the people who see it are going to suddenly be like, “Oh my goodness, I agree with everything you say,” but in the hopes that you'll reach enough of the people whose minds you can change to make a difference in their decision when it comes to November.You will reach them and you will start to be one of the people who affects their choices, is what I'm trying to say. So I don't know, that's kind of the strategy of it from my point of view. It is a similar way of thinking to me from the anthology. When we published the anthology four years ago, it was different because we were letting people say their own beliefs. And it was people from all over the spectrum kind of saying why they weren't voting for Trump in whatever way they saw fit [laughs], on whatever topic they saw fit. That was our approach. But this is the way some other people are going to do it, and we're gonna be happy to work with them in that way.Jonathan Walton: I think for me, I see the political strategy of it. I see the strategery that's happening, to use a word from SNL. My hope is that…Sy Hoekstra: From SNL 25 years ago [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Yeah. My hope… [laughs]. It was such a great sketch. “Strategery,” it was so good. “I'm the decider” [Sy laughs]. So I think one of the things that stands out to me, particularly in reviewing it more and assign it and then come on board, is, I hope that this is a Belhar Confession type moment for the United States and followers of Jesus. Particularly, because when we look at the Dutch Reformed Church, the Dutch Reformed Church was the theological backbone and framework for apartheid in South Africa. They gave the covering for those things to happen. It gave theological and moral legitimacy to a movement that was oppressive, violent, exploitative, and un-Christian at every level. Because there are Christian leaders who are willing to say, “You know what? This is really good. This is actually right. This is good and just, and God intended this.” And we have the exact same type of nonsense happening in the United States.There are quote- unquote, prophets and apostles and preachers and teachers and publishing houses and Amazon independent book publishers rolling out materials that say, “America first.” America is the kingdom of God. America is the kingdom of heaven. America is this baptized land on the earth, as opposed to being a land that is rooted in land theft, genocide, violence, patriarchy, greed and exploitation. Which it is that. It's actually not the kingdom of God at all. And so I hope that this creates a groundswell that goes beyond November 5th and beyond January 20th. And could this be a pivot point of orientation for people who followed Jesus to say, “You know what? Actually Jesus didn't say any of that.” If all of these people, right, left, middle, above, otherwise are saying this, maybe I should consider. “Oh, Randall Balmer said that, and Mercy Aiken” [Sy laughs]? “Shane was there too? Alright. Shane is on the same page as Curtis Chang and Sandra Van Opstal? Alright, let me jump in and get on this.” That's what I hope happens, is that it becomes impossible to avoid the question of allegiance to Jesus, or allegiance to the United States. Just like in South Africa the question was, are you pledging allegiance to apartheid or are you gonna follow Jesus?Sy Hoekstra: I totally agree with that. And I would say that it is 100 percent in line with the sort of premise of this podcast, which is helping people shake the dust and walk away [laughs] from the places where the word of God is not accepted as Jesus put it. And you let your peace return to you and you move along on your way.Jonathan Walton: Yes.How Did We Get to the Point Where This Confession Is Necessary?Sy Hoekstra: So let's actually talk about that thing that you were just saying. The thing where all these people from these different walks of life are coming together to make this specific statement at this time. How did we get here, aside from the obvious thing that Donald Trump is very good at uniting people who oppose him [laughter]. How did we get to this point in the church in America?Jonathan Walton: I think we need to narrow the scope a little bit.Sy Hoekstra: Okay.Jonathan Walton: Of how we got to this point, I think I would start at Acts 2 [laughter]. But, and then the church and then the alliance with the empire to escape persecution. Constantinople like Nicea, I mean…Sy Hoekstra: Let's focus on America.Jonathan Walton: Yeah, let's focus on the United States.Sy Hoekstra: [laughs] Zoom in a little bit.The Moral Majority Took Us Very Far down a Path Away from JesusJonathan Walton: I think that one of the pivot points in the United States is 2008 in the ascendance of Barack Obama. With Barack Obama, you have what was roiling and starting with Al Gore, but like can Christians vote for Democrats and still be Christians? Because with the ascendance of the moral majority, with what Randall Balmer talks about this coalescing around abortion as a position, and then the policies laid out by Jerry Falwell. And there was a conference in 1979 in Houston. Lots of organizations came out of that gathering. And so when those types of things occur, I think we are living in the wake of that wave, but that wave wasn't really challenged until 2008 when many, many, many, many people said, “Oh, I wanna vote for Barack Obama.”And so with the ascendance of Obama, then the question particularly among the Black community from evangelical Christians is like, can you be a Christian and vote for Obama? And that was talked about extensively in Tamice's book, Faith Unleavened, which is amazing. And that scene that she describes of the dissonance between the White evangelical church that she was sitting in, and the conversation she was having with her grandma on the phone, who she called Momma.Sy Hoekstra: Where her family was having a party because Obama had been elected and her White church was having a mournful prayer service.Jonathan Walton: Yeah. I think a lament session basically, for the United States being now overtaken by a demonic force. And so I think if we start there and move forward, like if this was a ray coming from a point, then the line actually starts to diverge from there, from the center point. And now we are actually so far apart that it's very, very difficult to justify what's happening. So if we're at our end points right now, we have followers of Jesus legitimizing sexual violence by saying Trump is fine. You have followers of Jesus legitimizing fraud, saying that that's fine. You have followers of Jesus legitimizing insurrection, saying that's fine. We are way, way down the road and very far apart from these basic confessions.And so I think people that are co-opted and indoctrinated by Fox News and the conservative White evangelical and conservative Catholic and conservative… because there's a smattering of Christian movements that have so aligned themselves with political power that it is very apparent even to non-Christians, that this is not Christ-like. And so I think for us, similar to the church in South Africa, to say, “Hey, we need to just make very plain every person is made in the image of God, and you shouldn't enslave, violate and steal from people.”If we could articulate that and do that, and have a movement around that, then I think that is how we got here, is that basic tenets of following Jesus have stayed the same, but forces, institutional, the powers, the principalities, and also people who chose to align themselves with that have taken the ball and run so far down the road that even people who don't follow Jesus and folks who just have basic biblical engagement are seeing that this is just not the way. And so I think followers of Jesus across the spectrum are starting to say, “You know what? This is a moment that we can actually speak into.”The White Evangelical ChurchA Divorce between White Evangelicals and Followers of JesusSy Hoekstra: Yeah, I agree with all that. I think, I mean, look, when we first started doing this work and we published our anthology, we went on a couple of podcasts about it. A common thing that people asked of us at the time was, where do you think the American church, where do you think the like 81 percent of the church, the White evangelical church that voted for Trump is going?” And the first time I said it, I sort of surprised myself, but I was like, “Look, it's being cut off the vine for not bearing good fruit and thrown in the fire.” That's it. There's been a long time coming of a divorce, like a complete split, I think, between White evangelicals in America and followers of Jesus.Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: White evangelicals have had a whole long history of being involved in, as you said, in the exact same way that the Dutch Reformed Church was involved in apartheid, just being involved in everything. Every [laughs] terrible thing America's ever done, we've been there cheering it on and supporting it in all kinds of ways. And I think a lot of what Trump in particular, and it's sometimes a little bit hard to put my finger on why it was him, but Trump in particular, I think highlighted to a lot of Christians who viewed themselves as kind of like just nice, gentle, center right Christians who were a part of a larger movement where maybe there were some people who were a little bit off the deep end, but overall, these institutions and these people are trying to accomplish good things in the world and follow Jesus faithfully, realized that that wasn't the case.I think there are a lot of people who realized that they actually had opinions about what it meant to follow Jesus that were dramatically different than the average person in their institutions, or the average evangelical Republican.Policy Debates for White Evangelicals Have Been a Cover for Power HungerSy Hoekstra: Peter Wehner, I think would be one of these people, who writes for the New York Times. He was a George W. Bush speech writer. He recently wrote an article saying, “Look, Donald Trump has explicitly said that if you took one of these super restrictive state abortion bans and you passed it in Congress and you put it on my desk, I would veto it. I would not pass a national abortion ban.”Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: Which for the pro-life movement, that's the end goal. That would be [laughs], that would be the thing they've been fighting for for decades [Jonathan laughs]. And he has said, “I will not sign this.” And do you hear anything about that from Franklin Graham [laughs]?Jonathan Walton: So Al Mohler was on the Run-Up of the New York Times this week, when you listen to this probably like two weeks ago, talking about how, “Hey, Donald Trump just said he's not gonna sign a national abortion ban. What's your position on that?” And his position hasn't changed, because again, it is framed as you all are the radical people, not us. We are the victims, not you. There's a constant revision of reality that they are gonna continue to turn out and communicate that is rooted in fear and a lust for power and control and dominance. And that is toxic as all get-out, and obviously un-Christian.Sy Hoekstra: Yeah, that was the end of my point, was that a thing that people have been arguing for a long time, which is that, this focus on abortion, this focus on prayer in school, or this focus on whatever the evangelical issue of the day is, has in fact been about power from the perspective of the leaders.Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: Maybe not the rank -in-file people like marching and the March for Life or whatever.Jonathan Walton: Exactly.Sy Hoekstra: But the leaders are after power, and they always have been. That's what, if you go back a couple years to our episode with Mako Nagasawa, the first episode of season two where we talked about abortion. That's what his whole book is about, is the history of abortion policy and how it's almost never been about abortion. It's almost always been about something else like anti-immigrant sentiment or professionalizing the medical profession or whatever. It's always been about some other issue of people trying to establish themselves and gain power over somebody else. That's what I think a lot of people are realizing, and so a lot of people who are, I think more to the right in the group of people who have signed this document that we have are on that journey, like are in the middle of it.Or not in the middle of it, but they've been going on it for a few years and they've been rejected by who they thought were their people for saying things like, “Hey, should we maybe adhere a little more closely to the teachings of Jesus?” [laughs] And now they're saying, okay, they've gotten to a point where they're like, “I need to draw a line in the sand. I need to make something clear here.” And that I think is different. That is genuinely different than eight years ago when everybody was, a lot of people in the middle were just kind of waffling.Jonathan Walton: Yeah. Yeah, right.Sy Hoekstra: Were not really sure what to do yet. And they still viewed the people on the far right who were all in for Trump as possibly a minority on their side, or possibly just something like a phase people were going through. Something that would flare up and then die, and it just didn't turn out that way. I think that's kind of how I view a lot of how we got to the place that we are now.Jonathan Walton: Yeah.Sy Hoekstra: Again, zoomed in on America and not looking at the entirety of church history, which is where you wanted to go [laughter].Jonathan Walton: Yeah. And I mean, and I'll name some of the people that are key to that. So, Kristin Kobes Du Mez, like her book Jesus and John Wayne, Jemar Tisby's book, The Color of Compromise. And we could also throw in some Christianity adjacent, but loved by them books as well. So like all of the quote- unquote, anti-racist books, where people who are trying to leave the race-based, class-based, gender-based environmental hierarchy that White evangelicalism enforces, like I wrote about that in Twelve Lies as an explicit book. But you could say that Ibram X. Kendi's book is trying to get away from that. That White Fragility is trying to get away from that. That all of these books pushing back against [laughs], what now is called like Trad Wife and all these different things, it's trying to push back against these things. They're trying to call people to another reality because the one that some people have found themselves in is deeply unhelpful and not Christian.Sy Hoekstra: Yeah. I feel like that's been like you're refrain of this podcast. “And also, not Christian” [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Not Christian. Right.Sy Hoekstra: And not Jesus.Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: Do we have any other thoughts on this subject, or do we want to jump into our segment?Jonathan Walton: I just think people should go sign it.Sy Hoekstra: Oh, yeah.Jonathan Walton: And there's a fun bible study there that [laughs] we talked about two weeks ago on the podcast and spread the word about it. I think it's gonna be a good thing.Sy Hoekstra: Yeah, the link to the website, the people who organized it, Jonathan said, “Hey, you can put the Bible study that we talked about in our last episode up, if you want a place for people to go to scripture on these subjects.” And they did.Jonathan Walton: Yeah.Sy Hoekstra: So that's cool. We will have the link to the confession in the show notes, as well as the link to the video that we created, which has a bunch of the signers of the confession reading parts of it, which we would love it if you would all share as widely as possible on your social media, and share the confession as well. We hope that this, as I said, changes somebody's hearts and minds, has some good effect on some people both in their discipleship and in their politics, which is what we're all about.Jonathan Walton: Yeah. Amen. There's actually a worship album that came out too. So along with Phil Vischer's cartoons for kids that can be shown in churches, there's a Return to Love album by a bunch of folks that you all may know like Will Matthews, Crystal Lewis, Ryan Edgar. These are folks that have led worship in great places that the evangelical world has followed for a long time. And so having worship leaders willing to call us out as well is pretty great. Along with Phil Vischer, because these videos will definitely be great for kids.Sy Hoekstra: Is that worship album already out?Jonathan Walton: Yeah, it's out right now [laughs]. You could click on it.Sy Hoekstra: I don't know how they did that that fast. That's incredible [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Hey man, listen. There's a thing called the Holy Spirit.Sy Hoekstra: [laughs].Jonathan Walton: And I think we all know that when Jesus moves, Jesus can do some things.Which Tab Is Still Open?: Trump at ArlingtonJonathan Walton: And so let's get into our segment, Which Tab Is Still Open?, where we dive a little deeper into one of our recommendations from the newsletter. And remember, you can get our newsletter for free by signing up for the mailing list at KTFPress.com. You'll get recommendations on articles, podcasts, and other media from both of us on things that will help you in your political education and discipleship. Plus, you'll get reflections to keep you grounded and hopeful as we engage in this challenging work together. News about KTF and what's going on, and a lot more. So go get that free subscription and a paid one too. Alright. So this is your recommendation, so let's jump into it.Sy Hoekstra: This actually has a lot to do with what we were just talking about.Jonathan Walton: Yes, it does.Sy Hoekstra: This is all about Christian Nationalism [laughter]. And Trump kind of stepping in it when it comes to dealing with his Christian Nationalist followers. So here's the story, and the article that I recommended in the newsletter was actually, it both gave the details of the story, but it was actually for me, an example of kind of the thing that I was critiquing [laughs]. It was an Atlantic article, and basically the facts of what happened are as follows. Trump went to Arlington National Cemetery, which if you don't know, is I just learned the second, not actually the largest, the second largest national cemetery in the country.Jonathan Walton: Oh. Huh.Sy Hoekstra: The largest one's on Long Island, Jonathan, I had no idea.Jonathan Walton: What!Sy Hoekstra: [laughs] Yeah.Jonathan Walton: [laughs] I did not know that.Sy Hoekstra: So the people who are buried in Arlington are soldiers who served in active duty. Some of them died, some of them were retired and passed away later. And then like very high ranking government officials, like Supreme Court justices or presidents or whatever. So Trump went and visited a specific spot that had I think 13 soldiers who died during the evacuation of Afghanistan when there was a suicide bomb attack from the Taliban.Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: And he did this basically to highlight Biden administration screw ups. You didn't handle this evacuation well. And so because Harris is part of the administration, he's criticizing his opponent. And he went and took some pictures, which is fine, but he then was like specifically taking pictures in this area and like narrating a video talking about Biden screw ups and everything. And an employee of the cemetery pointed out correctly that campaign activities are illegal under federal law [laughs] at Arlington National Cemetery. And they kept going anyways. And they got in a little bit of an argument with her, and then later to the press said that she is mentally ill and was having a mental health crisis in that moment, and that she needed to be fired.And, fortunately the cemeteries said, “No, that's all a lie, and she was correctly telling you that you shouldn't have been doing what you were doing and et cetera.”Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: But there were a number of people, and I don't know if this is a majority or anything like that, but there were actually some Trump supporters who viewed this as a violation, like something that Trump really shouldn't have done. He was being disrespectful to the dead, the troops who were there, by doing partisan stuff at the National cemetery. It was not necessarily about the things that he was saying, but just by conducting yourself in a way that you're not supposed to conduct yourself at a national cemetery.Sy's Experience with Arlington and it's Strong Christian NationalismSo here's my in for this. I have a very long history of military [laughs] service in my family. Somebody in my family went on Ancestry.com one time, and I have a direct ancestor who was a drummer boy in the Continental Army with George Washington [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Oh, wow.Sy Hoekstra: And somebody who enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War. And my great-grandfather was in World War II in Korea, grandfather was in Vietnam. And my grandfather who was in Vietnam, he died when I was about 10. My grandmother remarried a very highly decorated army colonel also from Vietnam, who he passed away and we had a funeral for him at Arlington. And Arlington does like 20, 30 funerals a day. So if you're a rank-in-file soldier, it's like a very, it's an in and out thing [laughs]. But because of either his rank or his awards or both [laughs], it was an event, Jonathan. It was like, we had the bigger, more beautiful chapel, and then we had a procession, because I can't see, I can't tell you how many it was, but at the very least, dozens of soldiers with a commanding officer taking his casket from the church to the burial site, there was a 21-gun salute. There was the presentation of the flag with the shell cases from the 21-gun salute to my grandmother. It was a big thing.Jonathan Walton: Yeah.Sy Hoekstra: And if you've been to Arlington, you know that one of the key messages there is that the people who served America and the army served the kingdom of God, served Jesus. That is what they did. They served, and they may have died serving heaven [laughs] effectively. And so what that means is this is one of the holiest sites for Christian nationalism. This is one of the places where you go to be reassured with some of the highest level, like some of the world's greatest pomp and circumstance. The world's most convincing showing of pageantry and religious activity that the United States Army and the people who died serving it are also serving God, which is, you can't get more Christian nationalist than that.Jonathan Walton: Yeah.Sy Hoekstra: Which is also why we have talked about Christian nationalism, actually far more common than people think it is [laughs]. It is absolutely normal in how we talk about the military. So what I think happened here with Trump is that because what I believe about Trump is that he's a conman to the core. He is pure... he's like self-interest incarnate [laughs]. He is out to promote Donald Trump and nothing more, and nobody more than that.Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: I think he forgot that his self-interest can actually diverge from Christian nationalism [laughs]. I think that he forgot that he can step on his people's toes in a way that he doesn't want to. And he's basically going to look out for where those things diverge in future in order to not have this happen again. Because he's just there doing what he does, which is promoting himself anytime, anywhere at all costs. And he forgot that one of the things that he harnesses, which is Christian nationalism, is not actually something that he believes in, and so he can misfire [laughs]. The irony to me is that I want to gain enough power to do anything and not be held accountable for it to better myself in my own position, is a pretty good summary of how kind of the operating principle of the US military in our foreign policy has been for so long.So it's actually, it's like [laughs], it's two entities, a former president and the US military kind of clashing in their basically excuse making for their own unaccountability and their own sin. Which is how I view the Christian nationalism of a place like Arlington. What I just said Jonathan, is [laughs] blasphemy to a [laughs] lot of the people that I probably, to some people that I know personally. So I will just acknowledge that. But that is what I believe, and I think is true to the Bible. So hopefully you can at least give me that credit [Jonathan laughs]. Jonathan, boy, did I just talk for a long time. I'm sorry. I actually had in the outline that I wanted to ask you first what your thoughts were before I went on my rant, and I just couldn't help myself. So, [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Well, Sy, I mean…Sy Hoekstra: Jonathan, what are your thoughts?Jonathan Walton: I think one, I just appreciated the explanation of the closeness, why it's still open for you. Because I think when I was writing Twelve Lies, I wrote about the military, and I wanted to say, “Oh, they're only going to these types of communities to get people.” That would've been my hypothesis or was my hypothesis, but the research proved different.Sy Hoekstra: And when you say that, you specifically mean exploiting like poor Black and Brown neighborhoods?Jonathan Walton: Yes.Sy Hoekstra: You're saying like, “We'll get you into college, we'll give you benefits, et cetera, if you come fight and die for us.”Jonathan Walton: Exactly. And so…Sy Hoekstra: Potentially die for us.Jonathan Walton: Right, there's this exchange that's gonna happen for your body. Whether alive or dead, there will be benefits and resources for you or your loved ones. And so I went in with that lens, but what my research showed me was that the majority of people who serve in the military are family. Their parents were in it, their grandparents were in it, their cousin was in it. It's actually like only about two percent of the United States population is affiliated with the military. We're recruiting from the same groups of people. And this would also be true for law enforcement. People who were in it essentially raise their children and bless and send them into it as well as most often. It's not actually about income.The income, if I remember correctly, was between 50 to 70 thousand dollars a year in a household, which in a rural area is at the time, 10 years ago, felt like a living wage. And so that reality was also something that's interesting for me. So when Trump came out against Mark Milley, when Mark Milley challenged him to say, “Hey, you will not use me, quote- unquote, the military, as a prop in your racism, standing in front of St. John's church holding that Bible up,” which was literally the distorted cover of our book, our anthology, because these things were happening. When he insulted John McCain, that was a moment where the military and I think those who are beholden to Christian nationalism tried to speak up. Tried to say, “Hey, we won't do this.” But then the ball continued down the road.I don't know what the fallout of the Arlington stuff will be, but I do know based on Up First the NPR podcast this morning in the morning that we're recording September the seventh, they said the military and the employees actually let this go. But the reason they brought it back up was because Trump got on Truth Social , used platform and stature to say, “This did not happen. There was no altercation. This person had a mental health episode.” And when you go into that, that's where I think the, “We will not be disrespected” thing kind of came up. Like what do you mean? No, we're gonna talk about this and we're gonna name that. You will not desecrate this holy site. Holy in holy site of Christian nationalism, as you were saying.So I hope that there are more people that are offended, because I think that if we allow ourselves to be offended, to be bothered, to be uncomfortable, then maybe there will be some movement. Because I think you're absolutely right. He is, you said self-interest incarnate. I think that is a great quote [laughs].Trump Cheapened the Spiritual Cost People Pay to Be in the MilitaryJonathan Walton: What's painful to me, so I too have, my father was in Vietnam. My brother was in the Navy, my uncle was in the Army. My other uncles were in Vietnam. And Brodnax, the town where I'm from, has many gravestones from Vietnam and Korea. And so what is fascinating to me is the level of belief that you have to have to commit acts of atrocity or commit acts of violence. Like Shane Claiborne would say, we were not made to kill people, you have to be taught to do that.And I am in no way condemning a soldier or a person who's in military service, who's listening. That's not what I'm saying. I'm observing, it costs us something to do these things. And I think the thing that Trump did was cheapen the cost that many, many, many thousands of people have paid for something that they thought was a collective interest blessed by God when Trump said, “No, you are a pawn in my game. And I will use you for my benefit.” Now you again, you will have people that say that's what's happening anyway. Trump is just doing in like what everybody else does behind closed doors. But I think that tension that he articulates or brings up for us, I hope it's allowed to rise to the surface, and then we can have a conversation about the cost.Like the silent war in the military right now is that even soldiers who have not seen active duty are committing suicide. I hope it brings to the surface the, like my dad, Agent Orange ruined some of his life. They're still figuring out what the effects of that were. You have people who are saying they support troops in one hand, but then voting against resources and benefits for them in the other hand, when the legislation comes up. Lauren Boebert did that yesterday. I hope that the perceived belovedness of our veterans and military versus the reality of how they're exploited and taken advantage of and dismissed and cast aside, we would actually acknowledge that and then do real work to ensure that they don't end up on the street.They don't end up stuck on painkillers. They do get the medical resources they need. They do get the mental health support that they need. Their families do get the resources that they need on and off-base and not just a discount at the PX. If that could be the conversation because of this, then I'd be very glad.Sy Hoekstra: Yeah. Just one more thing you said there. You said lots of people use the military as pawns and it's true. Or like props for their campaigns. It is just another one of those things about Trump where he will just do what everybody else did, but he'll turn it up to 11 [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Yeah, no, yeah. It's true.Sy Hoekstra: Everybody else, every politician, if they have a military background, if their family does, if they can visit a military site or whatever, they do it all the time. And even if their love for the military or for America is real, it is also true that they use them for their campaigns [laughs]. Use them to prop up. That has been… since we elected George Washington, the general of the Continental Army, has been true [laughter]. Right?Jonathan Walton: Right.Sy Hoekstra: So Trump is just the one who says, “Whatever your rules of decorum are, I'm going to break them.” And in most cases, that is actually his appeal. “Yes. I break rules of decorum and there's no consequences. And that's because these elitist can't tell me what to do and we need to take back power.Jonathan Walton: Oh Lord have mercy, Jesus [laughs].Sy Hoekstra: You need someone like me who can just break through all this nonsense.” You know what I mean?Jonathan Walton: Right. Yeah.Sy Hoekstra: That's usually his appeal. And in this case, it just happened to be that he crossed the wrong line for some people. I'm sure there's a lot of people who probably don't care [laughs].Jonathan Walton: Right. It may not wrangle a lot of people, but I hope it wrangles the right people.Sy Hoekstra: Yeah.Jonathan Walton: And him stretching out this poop that he stepped on and not wiping it off his foot and continue his campaign, I hope that roils people. He is a disrespectful person.Sy Hoekstra: Yeah.Jonathan Walton: And for Christians, literally James chapter four, it's that God opposes the proud. We are called to be humble people, and so I pray for Trump. I pray for his family. Not that he would win an election and all those things, but literally that they would come to know Jesus. Literally that they would know the freedom in him. Literally, that they would be able to experience the freedom that money cannot purchase and privilege cannot provide for you. And so I say all these things in hopes that everyone who is watching what happens is disquieted because we should not be comfortable with what's happening. Especially as followers of Jesus [laughs].Sy Hoekstra: Yeah. Amen to that Jonathan. Amen.Jonathan Walton: Yeah.Sy Hoekstra: I think we'll wrap it up there. Just as a reminder, as we finish, please again, go to KTFPress.com, get that newsletter and sign up as a paid subscriber to support everything that we do. We're centering and elevating marginalized voices. We're helping people seek Jesus in their discipleship and in their politics. We really do need some more support than we have right now if we're gonna make this sustainable kind of past this election season. So please do come and sign up as a paid subscriber at KTFPress.com. Our theme song is “Citizens” by Jon Guerra. Our podcast Art is by Robyn Burgess, transcripts by Joyce Ambale, editing by Multitude Productions. I am the producer along with our lovely paid subscribers. Thank you so much for joining us, and we will see you in two weeks.[The song “Citizens” by Jon Guerra fades in. Lyrics: “I need to know there is justice/ That it will roll in abundance/ And that you're building a city/ Where we arrive as immigrants/ And you call us citizens/ And you welcome us as children home.” The song fades out.]Jonathan Walton: Give me one second. One moment. I'm gonna get the name right so that you don't have to go edit this later [Sy laughs]. … So yes, we… Robert Mohler. The—Richard Mohler. Al Mohler. That's his name [Sy laughs]. Al Mohler [laughs]. It says R dot Albert Mohler. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.ktfpress.com/subscribe
Kristin Kobes Du Mez talks about the role of Christian pop culture in reshaping evangelical attitudes about gun rights, gender, and demographic changes sweeping across the country.
In the days of Donald Trump, there's been a controversial trend on the religious right — leaning into a raunchier, sexier side, over modesty.
Today, after some introductory remarks, Ken shares his most recent Substack post. It's time to sound the alarm. Here's the post in its entirety - you may read along. (Ken's Substack Page)Biblical Authority Part IIIThe Plan to Institute a “Biblical America” - Project 2025If you've been following this series, you know that I have come to question the ubiquitous and dubious claim to “biblical authority.” From the earliest days of my connection with the evangelical church - as a student, a board member, an elder, a pastor, and as an observer - the Bible has been foundational first and foremost for just about everything else. From governance, to doctrine, to morality, to ethics, to community, to education, to business, to private life, to public life - if it's not “biblical,” then it's out of bounds. It's time to call the question.If you haven't identified as this brand of Christian, or if your tradition is some other strand of Christianity, or if you grew up in another religious tradition or no religion at all, then the whole notion of “biblical authority” will sound odd. Because frankly, it is.Most all religions will lay claim to a collection of sacred writings: a book or books that are set apart and give definition to beliefs or affirm faith. Christianity is no different. It's The Bible. But these MAGA evangelicals, as we've come to know them, take it to another level.Just this week, historian and author Kristin Kobes du Mez wrote a lengthy Substack essay on Project 2025. We've been hearing about Trump's MAGA following and their plans for his first few months in office should he (God forbid) win back the White House. If you don't know the name Stephen Miller, I suggest you do some homework - just Google him. He's been Trump's go-to speech writer and confidant from the beginning of his first term. Miller gave us the ghastly Trumpian theme: “American Carnage.” Throughout, he has been a primary architect in this very public blueprint to remake our country in line with MAGA worldview.Kristin quotes PBS Newshour: “With a nearly 1,000-page ‘Project 2025' handbook and an ‘army' of Americans, the idea is to have the civic infrastructure in place on Day One to commandeer, reshape and do away with what Republicans deride as the ‘deep state' bureaucracy, in part by firing as many as 50,000 federal workers.” And that's not all: there will be mass deportations, invoking the “Insurrection Act,” and a whole host of draconian laws. Project 2025 has a web site tauting these plans. There are 100 right-wing organizations supporting this effort. A casual review of the endorsers will show you just how pervasive it is.These same people have issued a “Statement on Christian Nationalism and the Gospel.” They are currently soliciting signatures. There are twenty articles outlining their conviction that Christians must take dominion over the government and all aspects of American life. The first Article lays the foundation: Article I: The Source of Truth - “WE AFFIRM that the Bible is God's Word, breathed out by Him as the only sufficient, certain, inerrant, infallible, necessary, and final authority for all saving knowledge, faith (what we must believe), and obedience (how we must live).” They go on: “WE DENY that true beliefs, goSupport the show
Historian Kristen du Mez on her bestselling cultural history, "Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation." Check out Kristin's book here: https://wwnorton.com/books/9781631499050 Help keep This Is Hell! completely listener supported and access weekly bonus episodes by subscribing to our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thisishell
In this episode, we are joined by Sarah McCammon, National Political Correspondent at NPR, to discuss her book Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church. In it, Sarah tells a compelling, personal story about family, marriage, politics, and church—and she concisely boils down insights from scholars like David Gushee, Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Christian Smith, and others you'll hear her reference. If the great de-churching currently happening in American society is most acutely felt by Gen Z and Millennials, Sarah's story is right in the heart of that. And since no one really knows where the future is headed, one question to ask is: If evangelicals or other religious Americans leave the fold, what replaces that unique sense of purpose, transcendent faith, and community? Joining Sarah to discuss that and other urgent questions is Ruth Graham, the brilliant New York Times' religion, faith, and values reporter. Guests: Sarah McCammon Ruth Graham Additional Resources: The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church, by Sarah McCammon "Evangelical Writer Who Influenced Purity Culture Separates from Wife," by Sarah McCammon and Ruth Graham "Two Evangelical Leaders on 'Radical Faith'," by Ruth Graham Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation, by Jon Ward
"Heavenly Homeland: The Myth of a Christian Nation" kicks off a five-part audio series by the Faithful Politics Podcast. This series dives into Christian Nationalism in America, a blend of faith and politics that's been a part of the country's history since its founding . Brian Kaylor, a seasoned journalist at Word&Way, initiates the dialogue, focusing on Christian Nationalism's faith-politics intersection. Robert Jones of the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) follows, discussing Christian Nationalism's effects on American democracy and culture, especially its fusion of Christian beliefs with national identity.Kate Carté, history professor, explores the claim of America as a Christian nation, a notion intensified in the 20th century amidst societal shifts. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, a NYT bestselling author, analyzes the Christian right's rise and its impact on American culture and policy.Theologian Tremper Longman delves into biblical hermeneutics' role in Christian Nationalism, showing how Bible interpretations can back nationalist ideologies. The discussion concludes with Isaac Sharp, spotlighting evangelicalism's diversity and the perspectives of marginalized groups within the evangelical community.Must listen:"We Are Not A Christian Nation" w/Brian Kaylor, President of Word & Way"Religion, White Supremacy, and the American Future" w/Robert P. Jones, President of PRRI"Religion and the American Revolution" w/Kate Carté, Ph.D."Jesus & John Wayne" w/author Kristin Du Mez"The Other Evangelicals" w/ Isaac B. Sharp M.Div, Ph.D.Must Read: A Christian Nation? Understanding the Threat of Christian Nationalism to American Democracy and CultureThe Making of Heavenly HomelandSupport the showTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/
It's harder than ever to define what it means to be evangelical in America. But one constant? The Trump support. "The MAGA base is very real inside these evangelical spaces and it's not accurate to try to separate them," says scholar Kristin Kobes Du Mez, who herself has an Evangelical background. She tells Niala why white Evangelical power is stronger than ever for Republicans in 2024. Plus: Axios' Sophia Cai on what she's seen covering the Evangelical vote on the campaign trail, and why it matters that more pastors are spreading their word on social media. Guests: Kristin Kobes Du Mez, professor of history and gender studies at Calvin and the author of the book "Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation." Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura. You can reach us at podcasts@axios.com. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For a second time, Ken welcomes Rev. Ben Cremer to the podcast for Season 5. Ken starts by thanking Ben for that first interview, "Myths We Believe," which is far and away the most downloaded podcast of Ken's more than 300 episodes (exceeding the former first-place interview with Kristin Kobes Du Mez). Ben is a prolific author, just finishing up the manuscript of his first book. He has a big audience for his newsletter, which is delivered weekly on Sunday mornings. He calls it "Into The Gray." It's a resource of books, podcasts, and then a thoughtful essay of his own around important issues of the day. Ken chose three to discuss on this podcast - first, "A Troubling Conversation" highlighting the commonly held doctrine of Total Depravity. The second contemplates the common default answer when Christians encounter those who hold opposite views. They'll say, "Well, they aren't REAL Christians." The third addresses a spiritual discipline that is widely ignored in the traditions both Ben and Ken grew up in - lament. Ben brings fresh, sometimes provocative thinking to all three issues. Ken predicts that this conversation will be another that breaks records. SHOW NOTESSign up for Ben's Newsletter INTO THE GRAY | Become a PatronKen's Substact Page | Philip Yancey's Blog Site - Hole in the WallSupport the show
Christmas is here. Ken and Betsey banter over the challenge of finding just the right gift. Ken shares his plans to visit a remote camp where migrants found a gap in the Big Beautiful Wall (designed to KEEP THEM OUT) that separates the U.S. from Mexico. Kate Cox, the pregnant woman forced to file a lawsuit to get the health care she needs in a state that has some of the most severe restrictions on women's health, faces an agonizing public fight. Brittany Watts, too. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton symbolizes the cruelty and harm unleashed in our post-Roe era. The famed film producer Rob Reiner is about to release a documentary critiquing the rise of Christian Nationalism featuring such notables as Russell Moore, David French, Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Andrew Whitehead, Jemar Tisby, Skye Jethani, and Phil Vischer. Mary's Song sets the stage for the season's celebration.Ken's Substack: The Big Beautiful Wall | Become a PatronSupport the show
Jon live reacts to Rob Reiner's God & Country Official Trailer featuring Russell Moore, David French, Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Jemar Tisby, Anthea Butler, Phil Vischer, etc.#ChristianNationalism #DavidFrench #RussellMoore #PhilVischerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/conversations-that-matter8971/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
An Assessment of Whether the Term Genocide Applies to What is Happening in Gaza | Speaker Mike Johnson's Pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago as his Extremist Views Are Exposed | An Activist Who Preaches Against Consumerism and Black Friday Shopping backgroundbriefing.org/donate twitter.com/ianmastersmedia facebook.com/ianmastersmedia
This bonus episode features highlights from conversations that aired during the third season of Callings. In these clips, our guests offer advice for today's students and for anyone who teaches or mentors young adults. Listen to this compilation of insightful and interesting advice from Rowan Williams, Thema Bryant, Rainn Wilson, Richard Sévère, Meghan Sullivan, Deanna Thompson, Shaun Casey, and Kristin Kobes Du Mez.
In this latest Sacred Cinema episode, we're discussing Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets. Join Knox, Jamie, and Erin as we unpack this four-part docuseries about the Duggar Family and the Insitute in Basic Life Principles. You'll hear conversations about the winners and losers of the series, lots of ideas for follow-up documentaries, and a surprising amount of Cabbage Patch Kid talk. All this and more awaits you in our shiniest episode yet! MENTIONS Where to watch: Shiny Happy People on Amazon Prime Tell me more about Jamie's shaved ice attachment: Find it here Deep Dive (at your own risk): Learn about The Duggar Family Awesome Memoir: Educated by Tara Westover We love receipts: Check out Without a Crystal Ball What was that about the Cabbage Patch Dolls? Watch a Cabbage Patch Doll Birth here | Visit BabyLand General Hospital Want more of our friend Kristin Kobes Du Mez? Watch our Faith Adjacent Book Club about Jesus and John Wayne BONUS CONTENT Our Patreon supporters can access our Resource Deep-Dives, Office Hours episodes, monthly Fellowship Hall gatherings, and more! You can even test us out with a 7-day free trial. Become a partner. THE BIBLE BINGE SHOP The only place on the Internet where you can find Bible studies and resources for those curious about faith AND Chris Hemsworth's abs. Check it out here! GENTLE REBUKE Our resident Bible scholar Erin Moon offers a gentle rebuke at the end of most episodes. Erin is a Bible study editor and Senior Creative/Producer of The Popcast Media Group from Birmingham. Find her on Instagram. THE POPCAST Check out our other podcast: The Popcast with Knox and Jamie. It's a weekly show about pop culture where we educate on the things that entertain, but don't matter. Here is our suggested Popcast starter playlist. Subscribe to our Newsletter: The Bible Binge Bulletin Get The Bible Binge Merch: Shop here Shop our Amazon Link: amazon.com/shop/thepopcast Follow The Bible Binge on Socials: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
My friends Hank and Tripp come on to talk about Calvinism. We mention John MacArthur, Bill Hybels, John Calvin, Michael Servetus, Jacobus Arminius, Thomas Aquinas, Augustine, Tertullian, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Joe Biden, Henry VIII, Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Charles Spurgeon, James White, William Lane Craig, and many more.
White evangelicals overwhelmingly supported Donald Trump in his campaigns and presidency. White Christian nationalism was a driving force in efforts to overturn the 2020 election. And many of the worst reactionary movements in the country, powering the growth of the far right's influence, have their source in evangelical America.This is all, frankly, a little perplexing, given the peaceful, love thy neighbor core of Jesus's moral teachings. But it's nothing new. In her fascinating and troubling book Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation, Kristin Kobes Du Mez traces the emergence of the Christian radical right, particularly its patriarchal and toxically masculine forms, from its origins in the middle of the 20th century through to Trump. It's a story that's often appalling, but also helps us to understand much of our contemporary political scene.ReImagining Liberty is a project of The UnPopulist, and is produced by Landry Ayres. Podcast art by Sergio R. M. Duarte. Music by Kevin MacLeod. Get full access to Aaron Ross Powell at www.aaronrosspowell.com/subscribe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kristin Kobes Du Mez describes how Evangelism has transformed, and its relationship to masculinity, oppression, and nationalism. Kristin is a pastor and a professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. Her book, Jesus and John Wayne, reveals “how evangelicals have worked to replace the Jesus of the Gospels with an idol of rugged masculinity and Christian nationalism.” This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/BOATS and get on your way to being your best self. Visit Lomi.com/BOATS and use code BOATS at checkout to save $50! Go to FastGrowingTrees.com/BOATS NOW to get FIFTEEN PERCENT OFF your entire order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Links from the show:* Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation* Connect with Kristen* Rate the showAbout my guest:Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. She has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC News, Religion News Service, and Christianity Today, and has been interviewed on NPR, CBS, and the BBC, among other outlets. Her most recent book is Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation. Get full access to Dispatches from the War Room at dispatchesfromthewarroom.substack.com/subscribe
I'm thrilled to bring you the 100th episode of Filter. This podcast has been a blast to host and I hope that all of you in our audience have been helped by it. To celebrate our 100th episode, I am pleased to present this special two-part interview with Nancy Pearcey. Professor Pearcey and I discuss her latest book The Toxic War on Masculinity. In Part 1, she shares her story and tells us about her time at L'Abri. We also cover why she wrote this book and what she is addressing. At the end of part 1, she also gives her critique of the popular book Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez.Nancy Pearcey is the author of the upcoming book The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes. Her most recently published book is Love Thy Body: Answering Hard Questions about Life and Sexuality. Her earlier books include The Soul of Science, Saving Leonardo, Finding Truth, and two ECPA Gold Medallion Award Winners: How Now Shall We Live (coauthored with Harold Fickett and Chuck Colson) and Total Truth. Her books have been translated into 19 languages. She is professor and scholar in residence at Houston Christian University. A former agnostic, Pearcey has spoken at universities such as Princeton, Stanford, USC, and Dartmouth. She has been quoted in The New Yorker and Newsweek, highlighted as one of the five top women apologists by Christianity Today, and hailed in The Economist as "America's pre-eminent evangelical Protestant female intellectual."Check out the full show notes for this episode: www.aaronshamp.com/podcast/nancy-pearceySUPPORT THIS PODCAST: https://www.aaronshamp.com/support ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Track: Perseverance — Land of Fire [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library Plus––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Do you keep a healthy distance between yourself and the book of Revelation? Have a loved one who believes super weird things about Revelation? If so, you're in good company. Scot McKnight wrote a brilliant book called Revelation for the Rest of Us that turns all of those weird ways of interpreting Revelation on their heads and shows us what Revelation truly is. It turns out that the book of Revelation is a brilliantly subversive book about resisting the evil ways of whatever empire the people of God find themselves living in, whether it's Babylon, Rome, or America. Revelation calls us to give our faithfulness and allegiance to the slaughtered Lamb who has triumphed over the violent and oppressive ways of the empire.Scot is a brilliant New Testament scholar who has become a great friend of the podcast. We're excited to share more of Scot with you.In this episode, we tasted Leopold Bros. Straight Bourbon.To skip the tasting, go to 7:42.=====Want to support us?The best way is to subscribe to our Patreon. Annual memberships are available for a 10% discount.If you'd rather make a one-time donation, you can contribute through our PayPal. Other important info: Rate & review us on Apple & Spotify Tweet us at @PPWBPodcast, @robertkwhitaker, and @RandyKnie Follow & message us on Facebook & Instagram Watch & comment on YouTube Email us at pastorandphilosopher@gmail.com Cheers!
Some thoughts on why people hold certain political ideologies, a conversation with Nick Vincent on how his thoughts have changed and the state of politics today.Nick Vincent's BioLinks from todays Show:A Different Way of Thinking PodcastThe elevator skit from Candid Camerahttps://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2012/01/the-psychology-of-conformity/251371/People tend to change their minds with stories of real people, not factshttps://www.cnn.com/2022/04/06/media/jen-psaki-nbc/index.htmlJesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation by Kristin Kobes Du Mez
She's finally here! Bible teacher and author Beth Moore joins Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss her new memoir, her calling, and how she found the courage to speak out against the political idolatry of evangelical leaders in 2016. Moore says she learned how to put her faith in Christ himself rather than in Christian people. Also this week, we discuss the revival at Asbury University that's attracted 20,000 people to a small town in Kentucky—including a lot of Christian celebrities. Is it a genuine movement of God's Spirit, or a product of social media spin? Could it be both? Plus, a Christian professor discovers why “Florida is where woke goes to die,” evangelicals rejected Jimmy Carter for being too nice, and the Grinch who stole Easter. Patreon Bonus: Bonus Interview with Kaitlyn and Beth Moore - https://www.patreon.com/posts/79021837/ Holy Post merch store - https://www.holypost.com/shop News Segment Sponsor 0:00 - Sponsor World Relief Join the Path - https://worldrelief.org/holypost/ 0:45 Intro 3:35 - Stolen eggs 8:35 - Professor in trouble 25:47 - Asbury revival 38:51 - Jimmy Carter in hospice Sponsors 49:26 - Sponsor: Faithful Counseling Get 10% off your first month at faithfulcounseling.com/holypost 50:32 - Sponsor: Abide abide.com Get 25% off your first year when you text HOLYPOST to 22433 51:50 - Interview Intro 53:15 - Beth Moore https://twitter.com/BethMooreLPM All My Knotted-Up Life: A Memoir by Beth Moore - https://amzn.to/3lWYLFy 59:41 - Calling 1:08:30 - Risking credibility 1:15:00 - Back to 2016 1:25:19- End Credits Links mentioned in news segment: Thief Steals Nearly 200,000 Cadbury Creme Eggs in Britain - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/15/world/europe/cadbury-creme-eggs-theft.html English professor in Florida says university is reviewing his employment following complaint over racial justice unit - https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/18/us/palm-beach-atlantic-university-professor-racial-justice-unit/index.html Asbury Professor: We're Witnessing a ‘Surprising Work of God' - https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2023/february-web-only/asbury-revival-1970-2023-methodist-christian-holy-spirit.html Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez - https://amzn.to/3SmhZQQ The Movie Proposal - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-movie-proposal/id1184573662 Other resources: All My Knotted-Up Life: A Memoir by Beth Moore - https://amzn.to/3lWYLFy Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/ Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Marta & Mandy are joined by friend and colleague Jeff Scholes to interview Kristin Du Mez about her book Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation. Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. Jeff Scholes is Associate Professor of Religious Studies in the Department of Philosophy and the Director of the Center for Religious Diversity and Public Life at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, which will bring Kristin to Colorado Springs to talk about her work on February 23, 2023.
A Christian campaign spent $20 million on two ads during the Super Bowl, but the “He Gets Us” commercials are facing criticism from both the right and left. One side says the ads did not present the gospel. The other says the campaign's funders are bigots. And everyone is wondering if the $20 million could have been spent more effectively. Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn offer their takes. Then, Tim Keller has a new article with his prescription for how Christianity can thrive again in America, but does it all come down to overcoming political idolatry? And a new report from PRRI looks at the sobering data about Christian Nationalism. One-third of Americans are either committed Christian Nationalists or very sympathetic to it, and the majority of them are white evangelicals. Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez is back to discuss the data and explain the link between Christian Nationalism, patriarchy, and authoritarianism. Plus, a candy factory is sued after workers fall into a chocolate vat. Patreon Bonus: Bonus interview with Shane Claiborne - https://www.patreon.com/posts/78696238/ Bonus interview with Kristin Kobes Du Mez - https://www.patreon.com/posts/78701015/ Holy Post merch store - https://www.holypost.com/shop 0:00 - Intro 3:55 - Workers in a vat of chocolate 6:30 - He gets us 28:46 - American Christianity Sponsor 56:28 - Faithful Counseling Get 10% off your first month at Faithful Counseling.com/ HOLYPOST 57:37 - Interview Intro 59:00 - Kristin Kobes Du Mez https://kristindumez.com/ https://twitter.com/kkdumez 1:11:48 - Christian Nationalism and patriarchy 1:29:15 - Demographics 1:32:36 - End Credits Links Mentioned in News Segment Mars Wrigley fined after two workers fell into a tank of chocolate - https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/13/business/mars-wrigley-chocolate-vat-fine/index.html He Gets Us - https://hegetsus.com American Christianity is due for a revival by Timothy Keller - https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/02/christianity-secularization-america-renewal-modernity/672948/ Links Mentioned in Interview Segment Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez - https://amzn.to/3xlmodt Jesus and John Wayne Holy Post Subseries - https://www.holypost.com/articles/categories/jesus-john-wayne A Christian Nation? Understanding the Threat of Christian Nationalism to American Democracy and Culture - https://www.prri.org/research/a-christian-nation-understanding-the-threat-of-christian-nationalism-to-american-democracy-and-culture/ Other resources: Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Peter and Susannah speak with Tara Isabella Burton and Tim Shriver about their manifesto calling for a new “spiritual realism.” Should questions of the Good and of human purpose be off the table in serious political discussion, either because they're subjective and not real, or because they're too divisive and dangerous? No, argue Burton and Shriver – and the current state of the polity in fact demands that we take these questions seriously. They argue that Enlightenment liberalism has proven insufficient to provide either a metaphysical or a political framework for human life, and call for citizens and leaders to build institutions that will support a more robustly moral realist vision of politics and community. Then, Peter and Susannah talk with Boze Herrington and Hannah Long about Kristin Kobes Du Mez's book Jesus and John Wayne. Hannah, Boze and Susannah make the case that the genre of the traditional Western is not something which must only be deconstructed and criticized, but which in fact offers occasions to reflect on the deepest questions of human moral and political life: what is the role of force in an unjust world, what is the good of civilization, and what is the code that one ought to live by? Du Mez's recent book, they argue, does not understand or do justice to the genre.
That's right! We're talking about it: religion, the trauma, the benefits, the symptoms, crafting a spirituality you can thrive in, and more. Strap in, it's a big episode! More About The Guest: "Ellie Hutchison Cervantes (she/her) is an asexual woman and survivor of religious trauma. Through her work as a lay spiritual leader, community builder, and social impact communicator, she aims to support both individual and collective healing. Ellie is published in Beyond Worship: Meditations on Queer Worship, Liturgy, & Theology and holds a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary." Resources and Further Reading: An overview of Religious Trauma Syndrome by Dr. Marlene Winell, who coined the term. A Ritual for LGBTQIA+ Survivors of Religious Trauma by Ellie Hutchison Cervantes (printable version here). Queer Theology - a podcast, educational platform, and online community for LGBTQ+ Christians and allies. Radical Love: An Introduction to Queer Theology by Patrick Cheng No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model by Dr. Richard Schwartz Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez - discusses the marriage of religion and political power in America A short survey about Charting Queer Health: https://forms.gle/y9EhGhAJyht7MGZeA
Stand Up is a daily podcast that I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 800 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Check out StandUpwithPete.com to learn more Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. She has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC News, Religion News Service, and Christianity Today, and has been interviewed on NPR, CBS, and the BBC, among other outlets. Her most recent book is Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation. Check out all things Jon Carroll Follow and Support Pete Coe Pete on YouTube Pete on Twitter Pete On Instagram Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page
A growing movement led by right-wing politicians is increasingly challenging the separation of church and state. On the ballot this November are several high-profile Republican candidates who are embracing Christian nationalist ideals. Kristin Kobes Du Mez of Calvin University joined Laura Barrón-López to discuss. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders
The American political landscape has been undeniably impacted by American evangelicalism and its leaders. Few people know the details of this better than Kristin Kobes du Mez, who literally wrote the book on it (Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation). In this episode, she joins us for a conversation about evangelicals' political impact, the legacies of toxic masculinity and racism within the church, and how our current culture wars trace their roots to this messy mixing of church and state.Sarah and Beth's 2023 Speaking Calendar is filling up. Find out about Pantsuit Politics Speaking Events or email our managing director, Alise Napp, for more information.Please visit our website for full show notes and episode resources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Joining me today is Dr. Beth Allison Barr, author of “The Making of Biblical Womanhood.” Instead of primarily discussing Dr. Barr's book, which she has done at length, we focused on more global questions: patriarchy, plausibility structures, how history has shaped faith, and more. Beth says, "The miracle of the Bible is that the story of Jesus still gets through despite how much humans have messed with it.” Dr. Barr's Author Page: https://bethallisonbarr.com/ Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-John-Wayne-Evangelicals-Corrupted/dp/1631495739 Preston Sprinkle's Theology in the Raw Episode with Dr. Barr: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-making-of-biblical-womanhood-dr-beth-allison-barr/id1601730634?i=1000559299255 Episode 9 with Carolyn James: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-have-permission/id1448000113?i=1000430096190 Episode 141 with David Gushee: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-have-permission/id1448000113?i=1000546234980 Pre-Order Producer Josh's New Album: https://hibernate2022.bigcartel.com/ Household's song “Something I Said”: https://open.spotify.com/album/5m10oE4XYE3NaBUJfLFuMw?si=G4_uRLnLRYOB7UQg5CiJvg Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/ Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/ Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia@gmail.com -- he is accepting more work!) Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.com YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98 Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/ Artwork by sprungle.co/
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A third-party investigation of the Southern Baptist Convention's top governing body found that an influential group of leaders systematically ignored, belittled and intimidated survivors of sexual abuse for the past two decades while protecting the legal interests of churches accused of harboring abusers. Despite recent declines in membership, Southern Baptists are still the largest evangelical group in the United States, with more than 13 million members. How they respond to this moment is deeply consequential for America. We speak with Robert Downen, a reporter at The Houston Chronicle, and Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, professor of history and gender studies at Calvin University and author of "Jesus and John Wayne," about the recent findings and the SBC's response. We also hear from two survivors of abuse in the SBC, Hannah-Kate Williams and Christa Brown, about their long fights for justice and accountability.
In this solo episode (Jessica will be back next week), Hemant interviewed Kristin Kobes Du Mez, author of the New York Times bestseller "Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation." The book attempts to explain why white evangelicals overwhelmingly supported Donald Trump, despite all the non-Trumpy values they claimed to hold dear before he came along, by looking at the history of evangelical culture. 2:40 Why did you write this book? 5:00 The subtitle of your book is who white evangelicals corrupted a faith and fractured a nation. And I sometimes wonder did they corrupt the faith or did guys like Donald Trump expose the faith for what it's always been? 7:02 Are you cherry picking bad actors, like Mark Driscoll, who exist in every tradition, or do guys like Driscoll fairly represent this strain of conservative Christianity? 10:20 How much blame should we place on moderate Christians who platform these toxic people? 14:38 Is there a good definition of evangelicalism that outsiders would agree with? 18:28 Are your students more receptive to your ideas than your colleagues? 20:35 Are white evangelicals uniquely bad with toxic masculinity or is this just a problem with Americans at large? Or all of humanity? 23:32 Is Jerry Falwell, Jr. making a comeback? 25:25 Is there going to be a backlash to Trumpism that affects evangelicals? 30:06 SPONSOR: HelloFresh! https://www.hellofresh.com/friendlyatheist16 31:19 Is the impending end of Roe v. Wade good or bad for evangelicals on a strategic level? 34:12 Are white evangelicals really hypocrites about Trump considering he kept his anti-abortion promises? 37:55 Is evangelical Christianity a force for good? 40:55 What is your reaction to Girl Defined and other young Christian women who promote Christian patriarchy on YouTube? 42:00 What would you say to a megachurch pastor who comes to you for advice? 46:35 How come Christian stereotypes include both manly patriarchs as well as hipster skinny jean pastors? 49:45 Are you unfairly painting lower and middle class white men in the worst possible light? 52:30 Are white evangelicals really as powerful as you suggest they are?