The New Evangelicals Podcast

Latest Episodes:

279.TNE RECAPS: Everyone Has Lost Their Minds...Especially Candace Owens Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Tim and April discuss various topics, including their personal experiences, popular TV shows, the 4th of July, and the rise of Christian nationalism. They react to a trailer for the movie 'God's Not Dead 5' and highlight the propaganda and misinformation present in the film. They also touch on the dangers of Christian nationalism and its impact on democracy. In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the dangers of Christian nationalism and the conflation of allegiance to Jesus and allegiance to empire. They highlight the cognitive dissonance and mental gymnastics that many Christian nationalists engage in to maintain their beliefs. They also address the issue of authoritarianism and the false equivalence between progressive and conservative agendas. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for critical thinking and the importance of calling out propaganda and misinformation.

Takeaways

The conversation covers a range of topics, from personal experiences to popular TV shows and the 4th of July.
The hosts discuss the rise of Christian nationalism and its dangers to democracy.
They react to the trailer for 'God's Not Dead 5' and highlight the propaganda and misinformation present in the film.
The hosts emphasize the importance of critical thinking and questioning beliefs, rather than blindly accepting dogma. Christian nationalism often involves a conflation of allegiance to Jesus and allegiance to empire, leading to a distorted view of faith and politics.
Many Christian nationalists engage in cognitive dissonance and mental gymnastics to maintain their beliefs, often denying or ignoring the harmful aspects of their ideology.
Authoritarianism is not exclusive to any political ideology, but it is important to recognize the power dynamics and propaganda tactics used by different groups.
Critical thinking and the ability to recognize and challenge propaganda and misinformation are crucial in navigating political and religious discourse.
It is important to call out and challenge harmful beliefs and actions, even within one's own religious or political community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Recap

16:29 Reacting to Personal Experiences and Popular TV Shows

36:09 Reacting to the 'God's Not Dead 5' Trailer

40:03 Promoting Critical Thinking and Questioning Beliefs

44:32 Introduction and Personal Experiences

51:23 The Dangers of Christian Nationalism

58:01 The Conflation of Allegiance to Jesus and Allegiance to Empire

01:09:19 Addressing Authoritarianism and False Equivalence

01:14:05 The Importance of Critical Thinking and Challenging Propaganda

01:25:24 Calling Out Harmful Beliefs and Actions

Episode's Mentioned:

269. Harrison Butker's Speech is Worse than You Think

______________

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT)

Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

278. TNE RESPONDS: Democracy is in Deep SH*T Jul 03, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Tim discusses the pressing issues surrounding the 2024 election and the rise of Christian nationalism. He highlights the concerns about Joe Biden's performance in the first presidential debate and the implications for American democracy. Tim also delves into the dangers of Project 2025 and the efforts to erode democracy and impose Christian nationalist values. He emphasizes the need for awareness, activism, and engagement to counter these threats.

Takeaways

The first presidential debate raised concerns about Joe Biden's ability to effectively communicate and lead, which could impact the perception of undecided voters.
Project 2025, a conservative initiative, aims to flood the government with MAGA appointees and enact a Christian nationalist agenda, eroding democracy and civil rights.
The Supreme Court ruling that a sitting president is immune from criminal prosecution for official acts has significant implications for the balance of power and the potential abuse of authority.
The rise of Christian nationalism poses a threat to marginalized communities and civil liberties, and it is crucial to raise awareness, engage in activism, and vote to protect democracy and human rights.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:27 The Concerns Surrounding Joe Biden's Performance

09:23 The Dangers of Project 2025

15:11 The Implications of the Supreme Court Ruling

29:24 The Need for Awareness and Activism

______________

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT)

Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

277. TNE TALKS: The Holy Spirit? Or "Just the Drums"? (Sarah Lane Ritchie & You Have Permission) Jul 01, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Dan Koch and Sarah Lane Ritchie discuss the challenges and complexities of worship music in evangelical and mainline churches. They explore the role of music in worship and the potential for manipulation and harm.

Takeaways

Music can be a powerful tool in worship, but it can also be used to manipulate and harm individuals.
The assumption that if something is God, it cannot be described or understood is a dualistic perspective that limits our understanding of the divine.
Music can be seen as a spiritual technology that helps individuals connect with the divine and create meaningful experiences.
The conflation of music with God can lead to harmful beliefs and practices, particularly in evangelical contexts.
The cultural reaction against evangelical worship music is often rooted in the harm caused by these practices, but it is important to recognize that music can have different effects on individuals. Worship music plays a significant role in both evangelical and mainline churches, but it can also be a source of tension and trauma for many individuals.
There is a need for intentional curation of worship experiences to ensure they are emotionally and cognitively engaging, while also avoiding manipulation and harm.
Embodied community is essential for a fulfilling worship experience, as digital communities cannot fully replace the benefits of in-person connection.
Finding a balance between the positive and negative aspects of religious traditions is a challenge, but it is possible to navigate a path that allows for personal growth and flourishing.
Worship music has the potential to cultivate a dispositional openness to what is both communal and divine, providing a sense of belonging and connection to something greater than oneself.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Self-Description

03:22 Exploring the Role of Music in Worship

10:40 The Harm of Conflating Music with God

25:09 The Cultural Reaction Against Evangelical Worship Music

37:27 The Cognitive and Emotional Challenges of Worship Music

41:39 The Perception of Modern Evangelical Worship

46:25 Religion as Nuclear Fission: The Power and Potential Dangers

59:39 The Dispositional Openness Cultivated by Worship Music

01:09:29 Navigating the Complexities of Faith and Tradition

You Have Permission Podcast

Sarah's Faculty Page

Sarah's Twitter

_________________________________________________

if you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT)

Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

276. TNE RECAPS: Christian Nationalism invades Louisiana Classrooms Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Tim and April discuss various aspects of Christian culture, including tattoos, the recent presidential debate, and a church selling plots of land in heaven. They are joined by Andrew Whitehead to explore the rise of Christian nationalism and its impact on issues like abortion. They highlight the increase in infant mortality rates in Texas after the abortion ban and critique the extreme views of some pro-life activists. The discussion covers the complexities within the pro-life movement, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of reproductive rights, including access to healthcare, economic support, and comprehensive sex education. They also critique pro-life groups and politicians who fail to support policies that genuinely help mothers and children. The conversation then shifts to Christian nationalism's influence on American society, particularly the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools, exploring the motivations behind this push and the need for a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of patriotism and democratic responsibilities.

Takeaways

The rise of Christian nationalism has had a significant impact on issues like abortion, with some activists pushing for extreme measures and equating abortion to murder.
The recent abortion ban in Texas has led to an increase in infant mortality rates and birth defects, highlighting the unintended consequences of restrictive abortion laws.
There is a lack of compassion and nuance within the pro-life movement, with some activists failing to consider the real-life implications of their beliefs on women and families.
The pro-life movement needs to address the complexities of reproductive rights and focus on supporting women and families beyond just advocating for the end of abortion.
The rise of Christian nationalism and its influence on political discourse is a concerning trend that requires greater attention and understanding. Abortion is a complex issue that requires a nuanced understanding and consideration of various factors, including access to healthcare, economic support, and comprehensive sex education.
Pro-life groups and politicians should advocate for policies that support mothers and children, such as affordable childcare, healthcare, and livable wages.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Fun Banter

03:01 The Impact of Christian Nationalism on Abortion

09:29 Unintended Consequences: The Rise in Infant Mortality Rates in Texas

13:14 Lack of Compassion and Nuance in the Pro-Life Movement

25:19 The Rise of Christian Nationalism and its Influence on Politics

37:51 Understanding Abortion and the Need for Nuance

48:02 The Influence of Christian Nationalism

52:44 The Ten Commandments in Public Schools and Christian Nationalism

58:25 Redefining Patriotism: Justice, Equality, and Compassion

01:05:38 The Responsibility of Citizens in a Democratic Society

01:13:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community!

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Subscribe On YouTube

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

275. TNE RESPONDS: Gateway Church’s Statement on Robert Morris Falls Short Jun 26, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Tim and April respond to the elder statement made by Gateway Church regarding the allegations against their lead pastor, Robert Morris. They express disappointment with the statement and discuss the lack of accountability and transparency. They highlight the need for Gateway Church to take concrete actions to address the harm caused and support the survivors. Tim and April also criticize the church's focus on the show and the institution rather than the well-being of the victims. They call for a halt in services, a thorough investigation, and financial reparations for the survivors. The conversation discusses the response of Gateway Church to the allegations against their former lead pastor, Robert Morris, who was accused of molesting a 12-year-old girl. The hosts criticize the church's lack of accountability and deflection of responsibility. They highlight the problematic mindset of some evangelical churches that prioritize success and money over addressing systemic issues and protecting victims. The conversation also touches on the comparison between leaving a church due to disappointment and leaving a church due to abuse, as well as the interconnectedness of charismatic leaders and the need for systemic change.

Takeaways

Gateway Church's elder statement regarding the allegations against Robert Morris lacked accountability and transparency.
Concrete actions, such as halting services and conducting a thorough investigation, are necessary to address the harm caused and support the survivors.
The focus on the show and the institution rather than the well-being of the victims is problematic.
Financial reparations should be considered to acknowledge the decades of harm and trauma experienced by the survivors. Some evangelical churches prioritize success and money over addressing systemic issues and protecting victims.
The response of Gateway Church to the allegations against Robert Morris lacked accountability and deflected responsibility.
Leaving a church due to disappointment is not the same as leaving a church due to abuse.
Charismatic leaders are often interconnected and need to be held accountable for their actions.
Systemic change is necessary to address the issues within evangelical culture.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:16 Allegations against Robert Morris

08:16 Lack of Accountability and Transparency

12:07 The Resignation of Robert Morris

13:36 Pattern of Similar Incidents

20:11 Frustration with the Church's Handling

21:20 Call for Financial Reparations

21:45 The Problematic Response of Gateway Church

22:42 The Prioritization of Success and Money in Evangelical Culture

23:24 Leaving Church: Disappointment vs. Abuse

25:17 The Interconnectedness of Charismatic Leaders

27:06 The Need for Systemic Change in Evangelical Culture

Gateway's Elder Response Video

Read the Initial Article on Robert Morris

Robert's Full Response Video

______________

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT)

Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

274. TNE TALKS: Fighting Christian Nationalism with Rep James Talarico Jun 24, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Representative James Talarico and Tim Whitaker discuss topics such as Christian nationalism, faith, and navigating political differences. Talarico shares his background growing up in a conservative Christian home but attending a church that emphasized love for all people. He explains how his faith has informed his political views and motivated him to run for office. The conversation also touches on the importance of maintaining a spiritual foundation in politics, finding common ground with ideological opponents, and the challenges of addressing issues like Christian nationalism. In this conversation, Tim Whitaker and James Talarico discuss the importance of engaging in conversations to advocate for marginalized communities, the need for affordable healthcare and paid family leave, the role of right-wing media in spreading misinformation and fear, the threat of Christian nationalism, and the actions individuals can take to make a difference.

Takeaways

Growing up in a conservative Christian home, Representative James Talarico attended a church that emphasized love for all people, regardless of race, class, gender, or sexual orientation.

Talarico's faith has informed his political views and motivated him to run for office, with a focus on dismantling unjust systems and advocating for the well-being of all constituents.

Maintaining a spiritual foundation is crucial in navigating the challenges of politics, helping to control emotions and channel anger into productive and loving actions.

Finding common ground with ideological opponents is possible through personal connections and shared values, even while maintaining clear policy differences.

Addressing issues like Christian nationalism requires resisting harmful ideas and systems while avoiding personal attacks, focusing on the moral contrast and expanding the circle of concern for all people. Engaging in conversations and advocating for marginalized communities is crucial, as it relieves the burden on those directly affected by discriminatory policies.

Affordable healthcare and paid family leave are not radical ideas, but necessary measures to support families and ensure their well-being.

Right-wing media plays a significant role in spreading misinformation and fear, often prioritizing profit over truth.

Christian nationalism poses a threat to democracy and the values of equality and justice.

Individuals can make a difference by staying informed, supporting organizations working for change, and actively participating in the democratic process.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

09:29 Understanding Christian Nationalism

16:08 The Role of Faith in Politics

24:27 Addressing Christian Nationalism and Expanding the Circle of Concern

26:51 Affordable Healthcare and Paid Family Leave

29:33 Finding Common Ground

33:11 The Influence of Right-Wing Media

36:06 The Threat of Christian Nationalism

45:57 Taking Action for Change

Jame's Website

James on Twitter

James on TikTok

if you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT)

Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

273. TNE RECAPS: Gateway Church Covers Up the Truth Jun 21, 2024

Show notes

Summary

The conversation discusses the technical difficulties faced before the recording and the humorous incidents that occurred. It then delves into the scandal surrounding Robert Morris and Gateway Church, where allegations of sexual abuse have been made against Morris. The conversation highlights the contradictory statements made by Gateway Church and the need for a thorough investigation. It also addresses the toxic culture within evangelical churches, the impact of purity culture, and the importance of holding leaders accountable. Cindy, the alleged victim, releases a statement expressing her disappointment in the church's response and calling for justice and reform. In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the hypocrisy and lack of accountability within certain religious circles, particularly in relation to the handling of sexual abuse allegations. They highlight the case of Robert Morris, a megachurch pastor who platformed Mark Driscoll, despite Driscoll's history of abusive behavior. They also criticize the selective outrage and silence of certain evangelical influencers, such as Meg Basham and Allie Stuckey, who condemn Morris but defend John MacArthur, despite his involvement in covering up child abuse within his own church. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountability and the dismantling of toxic systems within religious institutions.

Takeaways

Technical difficulties can occur before a recording, but it is important to persevere and find solutions.
The scandal surrounding Robert Morris and Gateway Church highlights the need for thorough investigations and accountability within religious institutions.
Toxic culture and purity culture within evangelical churches contribute to the protection of abusive leaders and the blaming of victims.
Victims of abuse should be supported and encouraged to come forward, and justice and reform should be pursued.
The statements made by Gateway Church and the alleged victim, Cindy, reveal the need for transparency and genuine repentance. There is a lack of accountability and hypocrisy within certain religious circles when it comes to handling sexual abuse allegations.
Some religious leaders and influencers selectively condemn certain individuals while defending others, based on their theological alignment or personal biases.
The focus should be on protecting victims and holding abusers accountable, rather than protecting the reputation of religious institutions.
Toxic systems within religious institutions need to be dismantled in order to prioritize the well-being and safety of individuals.
Accountability and transparency are essential in creating a healthy and safe environment within religious communities.

Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community!

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Subscribe On YouTube

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

272. TNE RESPONDS: Robert Morris, Molestation Allegations, and Evangelical Corruption Jun 19, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Tim discusses the recent allegations against Robert Morris, the lead pastor of Gateway Church, who admitted to engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior with a 12-year-old girl when he was in his early 20s. Tim criticizes the response from Gateway Church and highlights the systemic issues within the evangelical church that enable and protect abusive pastors. He also addresses the harmful narratives propagated by conservative media about the supposed dangers of drag queen story hour, while ignoring the real threat of sexual abuse within churches. Tim calls for accountability and a dismantling of the toxic structures within American evangelicalism.

Takeaways

The allegations against Robert Morris are serious and have not been disputed by Gateway Church or Morris himself.
The response from Gateway Church and the language used in their statement minimizes the gravity of Morris' actions and prioritizes his healing journey over the survivor's experience.
The American evangelical church operates as a corporate entity focused on growth and spectacle, often prioritizing the protection of the organization over the well-being of survivors.
The evangelical church needs to address the systemic issues that enable and protect abusive pastors rather than blaming individuals or dismissing the problem.
Conservative media's focus on supposed threats outside of the church, like drag queen story hour, distracts from the real issue of sexual abuse within churches.
The current structures of American evangelicalism need to be dismantled in order to restore the witness of Christianity and prioritize truth, character, and integrity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Content Warning

00:41 Unpacking the Allegations Against Robert Morris

10:27 The Toxicity of American Evangelicalism

24:53 The Need for Church Accountability

26:19 Dismantling the Structures of Evangelicalism

Read the Article on Robert Morris

Robert's Full Response Video

______________

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT)

Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

271. TNE TALKS: Navigating Faith in Modern and Postmodern Worlds // Myron Penner, PhD Jun 17, 2024

Show notes

Summary

The conversation with Myron Penner this week explores the transition from pre-modern to modern to postmodern eras, focusing on the relationship between faith, reason, and truth. It delves into the intellectual history of these movements, the impact of modernity on theology, and the deconstruction of texts in the postmodern context.

Takeaways

The transition from pre-modern to modern to postmodern eras has had a significant impact on the relationship between faith, reason, and truth.

The conversation explores the intellectual history of these movements, shedding light on the impact of modernity on theology and the deconstruction of texts in the postmodern context.

The discussion provides insights into the interpretation of texts, the correspondence theory of truth, and the philosophical frameworks of modernity and postmodernity. Interpreting biblical texts involves considering historical context, author status, and social factors, challenging the traditional focus on authorial intent.

The conversation highlights the tension between modernist and postmodernist perspectives in interpreting Christian beliefs, emphasizing the need for intellectual humility and open dialogue.

The evolution of Christian beliefs and the dynamic nature of theological interpretations are explored, challenging the notion of a static, monolithic view of historic orthodox Christianity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Faith, Reason, and Truth

06:53 The Impact of Modernity on Theology and Truth

29:42 Navigating the Complexity of Biblical Interpretation

53:36 The Interplay of Modernist and Postmodernist Perspectives in Christian Beliefs

58:07 The Evolution and Dynamic Nature of Christian Beliefs

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT)

Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

270. TNE RECAPS: Holy Villains Jun 14, 2024

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Tim and Janice discuss various topics, including the conviction of Donald Trump, the misuse of religious language in politics, and the role of evangelical leaders. They also touch on the hypocrisy of some evangelical leaders and the need for skepticism and critical thinking. The conversation highlights the manipulation of religious beliefs for political gain and the importance of understanding the historical context of political decisions. In this part of the conversation, Tim and Janice discuss the themes of white evangelicalism, the failure of the democratic process, and the hypocrisy of Trump's supporters. They explore the idea that America is in decline and that evangelicalism has failed the test of staying true to its values. They also touch on the conviction of Hunter Biden and the response from both sides of the political spectrum. In this final part of the conversation, Tim discusses the use of memes and images to attack political opponents, particularly in the context of Hunter Biden and Donald Trump. He highlights the hypocrisy of Trump supporters who find such memes acceptable when they target Trump, but not when they target Hunter Biden. Tim also criticizes the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) for its regressive views on women's roles and IVF, and expresses his frustration with the continued platforming of Carl Lentz. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the love and acceptance of queer neighbors, and the control and ownership mentality of some evangelical Christians.

Takeaways

The conviction of Donald Trump is discussed, with the hosts highlighting the manipulation of religious language in politics and the misuse of biblical values.
The conversation emphasizes the need for skepticism and critical thinking when evaluating the actions and statements of evangelical leaders.
The hosts reflect on the historical context of political decisions and the importance of understanding the impact of past events on current issues.
The conversation raises questions about the sincerity of some evangelical leaders and their motivations for aligning with political figures. White evangelicalism has failed to stay true to its values and has embraced hypocrisy.
America is in decline and is facing serious challenges.
The conviction of Hunter Biden highlights the importance of respecting the judicial process.
The political divide in America is deepening, with both sides often failing to see the flaws in their own arguments. The use of memes and images to attack political opponents is hypocritical and lacks logical consistency.
The Southern Baptist Convention's focus on regressive views on women's roles and opposition to IVF is misguided and out of touch.
The continued platforming of Carl Lentz raises questions about accountability and genuine repentance.
Love and acceptance of queer neighbors should be a fundamental aspect of Christian faith.
The control and ownership mentality of some evangelical Christians hinders progress and understanding.

Janice's Link Tree

Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community!

If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!

Subscribe On YouTube

The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

The New Evangelicals Podcast

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected