Avoiding Politics as Entertainment with Michael Wear

Today is the day after the U.S. presidential election. As the results are being announced, we come together to pause and reflect on the truth about our calling to love God and love people in the neighborhoods, towns, and cities in which we live.In these three bonus episodes of the fifth season of The Disrupters, host Miranda Zapor Cruz asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves—and the noise?" during an election season? Join Miranda as she offers a disruption in the noise surrounding Election Day 2024 through meditations on her book Faithful Politics, accompanied by relevant Scripture readings, to combat the anxiety and uncertainties that accompany the selection of our next president. Together, these episodes educate, inspire, and reassure listeners who seek a healthy posture this election year, for the health of their souls as well as for the flourishing of their communities.In this episode, releasing the day after Election Day 2024, Miranda offers a reflection on the unchanged calling of all Christians—to seek shalom where we live. She emphasizes that as Christians, we must join with Jesus Christ in loving and serving our neighbors and promoting the wellbeing of our towns and cities. This episode also features a reading of Jeremiah 29:4-14 from The First Testament, read by IVP authors Jay Kim, Carmen Imes, Dorena Williamson, and Robert Chao Romero.Join us as we disrupt the noise of Election Day 2024 together.Links from this episode:Get to know more about Miranda Zapor CruzCheck out Miranda’s book, Faithful PoliticsCheck out The First Testament by John GoldingayAdditional IVP Resources 2024 Election Season Links and Credits✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Jack Reece and Helen Lee✅ Assistant Producer: Christine Pelliccio Melo✅ Sound Engineering: Jack Reece✅ Social Media Managers: Allie Noble and Makayla Payne✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "Half Life" by Adi GoldsteinDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Today is the day of the U.S. presidential election. While we wait for the results to be counted, we come together to pause and reflect on the truth about our ultimate hope in the return of our eternal king, Jesus Christ.In these three bonus episodes of the fifth season of The Disrupters, host Miranda Zapor Cruz asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves—and the noise?" during an election season? Join Miranda as she offers a disruption in the noise surrounding Election Day 2024 through meditations on her book Faithful Politics, accompanied by relevant Scripture readings, to combat the anxiety and uncertainties that accompany the selection of our next president. Together, these episodes educate, inspire, and reassure listeners who seek a healthy posture this election year, for the health of their souls as well as for the flourishing of their communities.In this episode, releasing Election Day 2024, Miranda offers a reflection on the eternal hope that we have in Jesus Christ. She emphasizes that as Christians, we are citizens of God’s kingdom and waiting for the U.S. election results must pale in comparison to waiting for the return of our savior, Jesus Christ. This episode also features a reading of Philippians 3:20-4:1 from The Second Testament, read by IVP authors Scot McKnight, Lynn Cohick, Terence Lester, and Prasanta Verma.Join us as we disrupt the noise of Election Day 2024 together.Links from this episode:Get to know more about Miranda Zapor CruzCheck out Miranda’s book, Faithful PoliticsCheck out The Second Testament by Scot McKnightAdditional IVP Resources 2024 Election Season Links and Credits✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Jack Reece and Helen Lee✅ Assistant Producer: Christine Pelliccio Melo✅ Sound Engineering: Jack Reece✅ Social Media Managers: Allie Noble and Makayla Payne✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "Half Life" by Adi GoldsteinDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Today is the day before the U.S. presidential election. Before we vote, we come together to pause and reflect on the truth about who we are and whose we are in Jesus Christ.In these three bonus episodes of the fifth season of The Disrupters, host Miranda Zapor Cruz asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves—and the noise?" during an election season? Join Miranda as she offers a disruption in the noise surrounding Election Day 2024 through meditations on her book Faithful Politics, accompanied by relevant Scripture readings, to combat the anxiety and uncertainties that accompany the selection of our next president. Together, these episodes educate, inspire, and reassure listeners who seek a healthy posture this election year, for the health of their souls as well as for the flourishing of their communities.In this episode, releasing the day before Election Day 2024, Miranda offers a reflection on the importance of Christian identity in the context of the United States presidential election. She emphasizes that Christian identity is built upon Jesus Christ—the chief cornerstone and “living lodgepole” —rather than political parties or ideologies. This episode also features a reading of 1 Peter 2:4-12 from the First Nations Version, read by IVP authors Terry Wildman, Chloe Sun, Amy Williams, and Michael Bird.Join us as we disrupt the noise of Election Day 2024 together.Links from this episode:Get to know more about Miranda Zapor CruzCheck out Miranda’s book, Faithful PoliticsCheck out the First Nations Version, edited by Terry M. WildmanAdditional IVP Resources for the 2024 Election Season Links and Credits✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Jack Reece and Helen Lee✅ Assistant Producer: Christine Pelliccio Melo✅ Sound Engineering: Jack Reece✅ Social Media Managers: Allie Noble and Makayla Payne✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "Half Life" by Adi GoldsteinDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

For some, engaging in politics looks like watching particular cable news or social media networks and then amplifying whatever voices align with their own particular values or biases. But perhaps the key to healthy political engagement isn’t about spending time watching C-SPAN, but instead is about focusing on the people we are becoming.In this last episode of season 5 of The Disrupters, Kaitlyn Schiess welcomes Michael Wear, founder of the Center for Christianity and Public Life. Together they explore the necessity of spiritual formation as an essential part of civic involvement and discuss the “election stress syndrome” that many have experienced after 2016. Wear also offers insights from his upcoming book The Spirit of Our Politics to challenge conventional ideas of what it means to be a faithful Christian in the realm of politics.Tune into this fascinating conversation on navigating the intersection of faith and politics with wisdom and grace.This episode highlights the following themes:The spiritual discipline of political engagement or abstentionDistinction between meaningful political participation and political passivityThe role of character and deep listening in transforming political discourseLinks from this episode:Get to know more about Michael WearLearn more about the Center for Christianity and Public LifeCheck out Wear’s IVP book, Compassion (&) ConvictionCheck out Wear’s upcoming book, The Spirit of Our PoliticsUncover insights from Politics is for Power by Eitan HershRead the document, Montgomery Improvement Association Learn About Mack McCarter, Founder of Community Renewal in LouisianaLearn About the Impact of Lead for America, American Connection CorpsFor its fifth season, hosted by Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters podcast from IVP asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?" Join Kaitlyn as she explores the ways that Christians can prepare themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—to faithfully disrupt the church and the world. Pastors, scholars, activists, and therapists share their own experiences of formation and transformation to educate and inspire listeners who seek lasting change, both within themselves and in their communities. Other links✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Maila Kim, Helen Lee, Travis Albritton, and Andrew Bronson✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts✅ Social Media Manager: Allie Noble✅ Production Assistant: Christine Pelliccio and Isis Toldson✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "People" by LightmuzikDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

When surrounded by all the needs in the world, people can become overwhelmed and paralyzed to even begin to engage politically if at all. But instead of thinking about every issue to engage in, perhaps the way forward is to find areas of deep focus and personal interest.In this fascinating dive into the convergence of personal faith and public life, host Kaitlyn Schiess welcomes Kathryn Freeman, a voice of experience at the intersection of theology and political advocacy. Freeman's journey is a testament to the power of pursuing deeply personal issues as the means to shape one’s public advocacy. Her nuanced understanding of political theology, shaped by both African American church traditions and seminary education, provides crucial insight into how churches and believers can navigate the everyday needs in their communities without getting overwhelmed by the broader political landscape.Tune in to this episode to discover healthy ways to pursue local political engagement in a sustainable manner that reflects Christ-led, neighborly love.This episode highlights the following themes:The need to limit oneself in political involvementThe profound political legacy of the African American churchRelationship-building and its significance in community advocacyLinks from this episode:Get to know more about Kathryn FreemanFor its fifth season, hosted by Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters podcast from IVP asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?" Join Kaitlyn as she explores the ways that Christians can prepare themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—to faithfully disrupt the church and the world. Pastors, scholars, activists, and therapists share their own experiences of formation and transformation to educate and inspire listeners who seek lasting change, both within themselves and in their communities. Other links✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Maila Kim, Helen Lee, Travis Albritton, and Andrew Bronson✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts✅ Social Media Manager: Allie Noble✅ Production Assistant: Christine Pelliccio and Isis Toldson✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "People" by LightmuzikDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

The impact of empire has far-reaching implications for the church, the nation, and the world. Even Christians who would claim that the kingdom of heaven is the only true ultimate rule and reign can find themselves complicit in supporting and furthering the empires of our current age.Former presidential candidate Mark Charles wanted to show a different way forward, using the political process to speak truth to power. In this thought-provoking episode, host Kaitlyn Schiess speaks with Charles about lessons learned from his political run and the ways in which trauma has had a particular impact on the white majority in this country.With a focus on healing historical trauma and rethinking the two-party system, Charles shares a compelling vision for a more inclusive and just future. His perspectives on political reform and communal trauma are not to be missed.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how history shapes modern politics and explore ways to contribute to a more just and equitable society.This episode highlights the following themes:The influence of historical trauma on contemporary politicsThe damaging effects of the two-party system on American societyConfronting and dismantling systemic white supremacist ideologiesLinks from this episode:Get to know more about Mark CharlesCheck out his book co-authored with Soong-Chan Rah, Unsettling TruthsCheck out Rachel MacNair’s book, Perpetration-Induced Traumatic StressFor its fifth season, hosted by Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters podcast from IVP asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?" Join Kaitlyn as she explores the ways that Christians can prepare themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—to faithfully disrupt the church and the world. Pastors, scholars, activists, and therapists share their own experiences of formation and transformation to educate and inspire listeners who seek lasting change, both within themselves and in their communities. Other links✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Maila Kim, Helen Lee, Travis Albritton, and Andrew Bronson✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts✅ Social Media Manager: Allie Noble✅ Production Assistant: Isis Toldson and Christine Pelliccio✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "People" by LightmuzikDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

For many Christians, disillusionment with the church has become more common as a result of institutional distrust and trauma. But internal confusion can also present people with an opportunity for self-examination and contemplation.In this episode, renowned theologian and ethicist Russell Moore joins Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss the essential work of self-reflection, accountability, and honesty in the face of cynicism. Through prayer, Scripture reading, and engagement in community, Moore encourages listeners to grow from the positive aspects of processing disillusionment. What can it mean to be sober-minded, hopeful, and discerning in institutional or political spaces come 2024? Moore suggests that reckoning together with the uncertainty of what lies ahead may be a communal starting place for the church.Tune in to be challenged by this week’s theme: that personal, internal repair must precede external progress. This episode highlights the following themes:Processing betrayal, cynicism, and wisdomObserving and learning from both positive and negative role modelsDiscerning a faithful attitude for the 2024 election seasonLinks from this episode:Listen to The Russell Moore ShowFollow Russell Moore on InstagramRead Russell's book, Losing Our ReligionFor its fifth season, hosted by Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters podcast from IVP asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?" Join Kaitlyn as she explores the ways that Christians can prepare themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—to faithfully disrupt the church and the world. Pastors, scholars, activists, and therapists share their own experiences of formation and transformation to educate and inspire listeners who seek lasting change, both within themselves and in their communities. Other links✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Maila Kim, Helen Lee, Travis Albritton, and Andrew Bronson✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts✅ Social Media Manager: Allie Noble✅ Production Assistants: Isis Toldson and Christine Pelliccio✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "People" by LightmuzikDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

How do the intertwining threads of love and justice weave a powerful narrative of transformation within the fabric of communities?In this episode, host Kaitlyn Schiess engages in a thoughtful conversation with guest Amy Williams, who has worked in gang intervention and restorative justice for over 29 years.Together, they explore practical avenues through which Christians can actively contribute to the restoration and flourishing of their neighborhoods, viewing the process through the lenses of love and justice.Williams emphasizes the importance of walking alongside the community rather than attempting to lead from a distance. Her lived experience reveals that by immersing herself in the daily life of her neighborhood and embodying love, she has become a vessel for infusing hope into countless lives, particularly those of the incarcerated youth.Her story highlights the importance of doing internal work to sustainably serve others. Williams has had to identify and address unhealthy leadership patterns, seeking support through community, prayer, and mentors, all of which contribute to her continued impact on lives.Williams' experience also shows that churches can't just come with pre-packaged programs. Understanding the communities - their assets and needs - becomes imperative. Consistency and presence within these communities are foundational in establishing trust for partnership; it's not about one-time events, but continual engagement and support.Tune in to hear more of Williams' wisdom on dealing with failure, mentoring the next generation, and allowing God's plans to prevail.This episode highlights the following themes:Trusting God for ministry outcomesCultivating healthy leadership by recognizing human limitationsHighlighting community voices in the process of seeking solutionsLinks from this episode:Get to know more about Amy WilliamsFor its fifth season, hosted by Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters podcast from IVP asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?" Join Kaitlyn as she explores the ways that Christians can prepare themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—to faithfully disrupt the church and the world. Pastors, scholars, activists, and therapists share their own experiences of formation and transformation to educate and inspire listeners who seek lasting change, both within themselves and in their communities. Other links✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Maila Kim, Helen Lee, Travis Albritton, and Andrew Bronson✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts✅ Social Media Manager: Allie Noble✅ Production Assistant: Isis Toldson✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "People" by LightmuzikDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

When most people hear the word "politics," their minds immediately go to partisan battles, ideological divisions, and the dysfunction of 24-hour news cycles. This episode challenges the conventional notion of politics. Instead of focusing solely on partisan battles, ideological divides, and the often chaotic media cycle, it explores a more profound perspective with guest Luke Bretherton, a professor at Duke University and an expert in moral and political theology.Bretherton wants listeners to see politics as something that's a part of human nature, not just about political parties or policies. Everyone engages in politics in some way as social beings, and it's up to them whether they do so constructively or destructively. The question is whether people will form common life respectfully through relationships of give-and-take, or take destructive paths that undermine their ability to live together in diversity.Join host Kaitlyn Schiess and Luke Bretherton in this episode as they present an inspiring vision of how faith and citizenship can become unifying forces rather than divisive ones, grounded in the virtues of understanding and respecting others.This episode highlights the following themes:The theological meaning of politics and Christian nationalismExpressing Christian beliefs in a pluralistic societyFounding community through relationships, not nationalismLinks from this episode:Get to know more about Luke BrethertonCheck out Bretherton’s book, “A Primer in Christian Ethics”For its fifth season, hosted by Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters podcast from IVP asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?" Join Kaitlyn as she explores the ways that Christians can prepare themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—to faithfully disrupt the church and the world. Pastors, scholars, activists, and therapists share their own experiences of formation and transformation to educate and inspire listeners who seek lasting change, both within themselves and in their communities. Other links✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Maila Kim, Helen Lee, Travis Albritton, and Andrew Bronson✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts✅ Social Media Manager: Allie Noble✅ Production Assistant: Isis Toldson✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "People" by LightmuzikDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Cultivating neighborliness may not seem to have much long-term impact, but its capacity to bridge diverse communities and ignite lasting connections demonstrates that it can actually have profound and far-reaching effects on our society.In this episode, host Kaitlyn Schiess engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Shannan Martin about her remarkable journey of cultivating neighborliness in her community through the twin pillars of civic engagement and nurturing relationships. Throughout the conversation, Martin not only redefines what true hospitality can look like in the midst of busy family life, no matter one’s temperament and personality, but she also makes the case that a key way to love one’s neighbors is to get involved in local politics.Her journey is a testament to the idea that meaningful change begins at the grassroots level, reminding us that each one of us has the potential to make a life-changing, kingdom-building impact right where we live.We invite you to tune in to this enlightening conversation and discover how you can play a part in loving your neighbors in unexpected ways that you may never have before considered.In this episode, we highlight the following themes:Practical ways to get involved in the community and build neighborlinessBuilding relationships across differencesEngaging locally to influence outcomesLink from this episode:Get to know more about Shannan MartinCheck out Martin’s book:Start with HelloFalling FreeThe Ministry of Ordinary PlacesFor its fifth season, hosted by Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters podcast from IVP asks the question, "What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?" Join Kaitlyn as she explores the ways that Christians can prepare themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—to faithfully disrupt the church and the world. Pastors, scholars, activists, and therapists share their own experiences of formation and transformation to educate and inspire listeners who seek lasting change, both within themselves and in their communities. Other links✅ Special offer: Visit ivpress.com and use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode.✅ Producers: Maila Kim, Helen Lee, Travis Albritton, and Andrew Bronson✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts✅ Social Media Manager: Allie Noble✅ Production Assistant: Isis Toldson✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard✅ Theme Song: "People" by LightmuzikDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands