240. TNE RECAPS: Christian Visibility Day?! // April Ajoy

Follow Rev Dr. Angela N. Parker's work. 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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! Summary Rev. Dr. Angela N. Parker, a theologian and professor, is interviewed by Tim. They discuss Dr. Parker's work and the upcoming book by Richard Hayes titled:'The Widening of God's Mercy: Sexuality Within the Biblical Story,' which challenges traditional non-affirming views on sexuality and presents an affirming standpoint. Richard Hayes is an influential New Testament scholar known for his work on the faithfulness of Christ. One of his influential books is The Moral Vision of the New Testament, which includes a chapter on homosexuality. The conversation explores the problematic idea of trying to change the sexual orientation of LGBTQIA+ Christians. It discusses the pressure for LGBTQIA+ individuals to conform to a monolithic identity in order to be accepted by churches. The conversation also highlights the dominance of mostly white men in the field of biblical scholarship and the need for diverse perspectives. The conversation discusses the impact of Hayes' earlier teaching against queer affirming theology and the harm caused by his narrow perspectives. The conversation touches on the need for white men to listen to and learn from queer scholars who have already done extensive biblical scholarship. It emphasizes the importance of not overshadowing or dismissing the work of marginalized voices. Takeaways The field of biblical scholarship needs more diversity and representation Listening to diverse perspectives can help challenge and broaden our understanding of the world  Acknowledging and making amends for past harm is an important part of personal growth and repentance. White men should listen to and learn from marginalized voices, particularly queer scholars, who have already done extensive biblical scholarship on queer affirmation. The conversation highlights the need for humility and a willingness to learn and change. The work of white evangelicals should involve fighting against Christian nationalism and working towards justice and equality. We need to critically think about who we invite into our spaces and the perspectives we prioritize. Treating marginalized groups as monolithic is dangerous and perpetuates stereotypes. Living in cognitive dissonance is challenging but can lead to growth and change. There is a need for liberation from hateful rhetoric against LGBTQIA+ individuals within denominations and churches. Flourishing and full participation should be possible for all members of the community. Recognizing and amplifying the work of queer scholars and biblical scholarship is important. Biblical scholarship has a significant impact on shaping Christian culture. Faith should be a catalyst for social justice and dismantling systems of oppression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summary Christina Dent shares her journey of changing her perspective on drugs and addiction, leading her to start the organization End It For Good. She discusses the importance of understanding the underlying causes of addiction and the need for a more compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy. She also highlights the challenges of changing deeply ingrained beliefs and the role of faith in this process. Christina emphasizes the need to challenge the status quo and the financial incentives that perpetuate the current system. The conversation explores different solutions to the drug addiction crisis and the need to rethink our approach in the US. Christina discusses the challenges faced by family members and law enforcement in addressing addiction and the harmful effects of punishment and blame. The conversation also delves into the importance of legal regulation to ensure consumer safety and reduce crime. It highlights the need for accessible and affordable healthcare, livable wages, and social infrastructure to support individuals struggling with addiction. The conversation concludes by mentioning Switzerland as a country that has implemented innovative approaches to drug addiction, such as heroin-assisted treatment. Takeaways Understanding the underlying causes of addiction is crucial for developing effective solutions. Changing deeply ingrained beliefs and challenging the status quo can be difficult but necessary. There are financial incentives that perpetuate the current drug policy system. Faith can play a role in shaping one's perspective on addiction and compassion. A more compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy is needed. Rethinking our approach to drug addiction is necessary to address the crisis effectively. Punishment and blame are not effective in helping individuals struggling with addiction. Legal regulation is crucial to ensure consumer safety and reduce crime related to drug addiction. Accessible healthcare, livable wages, and social infrastructure are essential in supporting individuals with addiction. Switzerland has implemented innovative approaches, such as heroin-assisted treatment, to address drug addiction. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:31 Changing Perspectives on Drugs and Addiction 08:19 Challenging the Status Quo in Drug Policy 13:16 The Role of Faith in Shaping Perspectives 23:46 The Need for a Compassionate and Evidence-Based Approach 28:45 Approaching Loved Ones with Addiction 31:32 The Ineffectiveness of Arresting Drug Dealers 35:29 Addressing Contaminated Drugs through Legal Regulation 39:36 The Need for Accessible Healthcare and Livable Wages 46:36 Switzerland's Innovative Approaches to Drug Addiction Read Curious by Christina Dent 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

Summary In this conversation, Tim and April discuss Taylor Swift's new album and the criticism it has received from some conservative Christians. They address the accusations of blasphemy and witchcraft, as well as the critique of explicit lyrics. They also highlight the hypocrisy of supporting Donald Trump while condemning Swift's music. The conversation reveals the subjective nature of art interpretation and the need for self-reflection within religious communities. In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding the concepts of witchcraft, demons, and Christian nationalism. They critique the views of Sean Feucht, a Christian musician and activist, who uses buzzwords like witches and demons without fully understanding their historical and cultural contexts. They also highlight the financial motivations behind Feucht's activism and his association with other controversial figures like Mark Driscoll and Eric Metaxas. The conversation touches on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of Christian Zionism, as well as the harmful effects of fear-based ideologies and the importance of respecting individual beliefs. Takeaways The criticism of Taylor Swift's album by conservative Christians reveals the subjective nature of art interpretation. Accusations of blasphemy and witchcraft are based on selective reading and misinterpretation of lyrics. The hypocrisy of supporting Donald Trump while condemning Swift's music exposes the double standards within some religious communities. Misunderstandings and misconceptions about witchcraft and demons are prevalent, often fueled by a lack of historical and cultural context. Some Christian activists, like Sean Feucht, use buzzwords without fully understanding their meanings, leading to misrepresentations and fear-based ideologies. Christian nationalism often promotes a narrow and exclusionary view of Christianity, disregarding the diversity of beliefs within the faith. Respecting individual beliefs and avoiding the imposition of one's own beliefs on others is crucial for fostering understanding and dialogue. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Mispronunciations 07:06 Engaging with Different Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Affirmation 27:27 Sean Feucht's Urgent Message and Misguided Critiques 35:26 The Subjectivity of Art Interpretation and the Need for Self-Reflection 45:52 Navigating the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict with Nuance 52:56 Respecting Individual Beliefs and Avoiding Imposition 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

Summary Tim recaps his experience attending the Exiles in Babylon conference and shares his thoughts on the event. The conference covered various topics such as Israel and Palestine, deconstruction and reconstruction, women and patriarchy, LGBTQ+ issues, and politics in the church. Tim discusses the controversy surrounding the event due to the host, Preston Sprinkle, holding a non-affirming stance on LGBTQ+ issues. He shares his own conflicted perspective on the matter. Tim also highlights the diversity of speakers and attendees at the conference and the positive conversations that took place. Takeaways The Exiles in Babylon conference covered a range of topics that are currently in the cultural zeitgeist. The event was controversial due to the host, Preston Sprinkle, holding a non-affirming stance on LGBTQ+ issues. The conference had a diverse range of speakers and attendees, fostering positive and thought-provoking conversations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 06:32 Tim's Role at the Conference 10:34 Protesters and Criticism 15:47 The Burden of Side B Perspectives 25:40 Changing Perspectives and Encouragement 29:47 Supporting the Work of Project Amplify 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

Summary Bri Stensrud, founder of Women of Welcome, and author of the book, Starts with Welcome: The Journey Toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation, discusses her passion for the immigration conversation and how it changed her personal and professional life. Bri reflects on the disconnect between the evangelical culture she grew up in and the reality of the immigration issue, and how it led her to question her faith, politics, and personal life.  Takeaways The immigration conversation is complex and goes beyond legal and illegal distinctions; it involves understanding the holistic stories of individuals affected by violence, corrupt governments, and civil war. The evangelical culture often prioritizes self-preservation and curated spaces over sacrificially living for others, which can lead to a disconnect between faith and compassionate action. Compassion for immigrants and refugees is not a political stance but a prophetic movement rooted in the teachings of Jesus. Engaging in the immigration conversation requires holding elected officials accountable, advocating for change, and recognizing that no political platform aligns perfectly with pro-immigrant values. Meeting people where they are in their understanding of immigration issues is important for fostering compassion and understanding. Chapters 00:00 The Transformative Power of Encounters 03:46 The Disconnect Between Evangelical Culture and the Reality of the Immigration Issue 08:41 Moving Beyond Legal vs. Illegal 12:18 The Need for a Prophetic Movement: Compassion as a Spiritual Responsibility 27:53 Compassion and Understanding in Immigration Conversations 30:24 Starts with Welcome: A Faith-Filled Perspective on Immigration 33:44 Addressing the Broken Immigration System and the Need for Reform 41:37 Proximity and Compassion: Essential Elements in Immigration Advocacy Read Start with Welcome by Bri Stensrud 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

Summary In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the recent events involving Josh Howerton and Mark Driscoll. They talk about Josh's apology and the similarities between his apology and another pastor's apology. They also discuss Mark's controversial remarks at the Stronger Men's Conference and his use of the Jezebel spirit trope. The conversation delves into the problematic nature of these actions and the reactions from the audience and online community. In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the recent controversy surrounding Mark Driscoll and his involvement in the Stronger Men's Conference. They explore the dynamics of the charismatic world and its tendency to look for demons everywhere, as well as the intersection of Christian nationalism and charismatic beliefs. They also highlight the lack of accountability and the documented legacy of abuse associated with Mark Driscoll. The conversation touches on the internalized misogyny within evangelical circles and the problematic views on women's modesty. They conclude by discussing the recent developments involving John Lindell and his call for Mark Driscoll to repent. Takeaways Apologies should be genuine and not copied from others Using the Jezebel spirit trope is sexist and misogynistic Mark Driscoll's actions and remarks are calculated and attention-seeking The reactions from the audience and online community reveal the problematic nature of these actions. The charismatic world is often primed to look for demons everywhere, and this tendency is amplified when combined with Christian nationalist beliefs. Mark Driscoll has a history of abuse and a lack of accountability, yet he continues to gain a following and promote his new book. There is a prevalent issue of internalized misogyny within evangelical circles, with many women defending Mark Driscoll despite his problematic views and treatment of women. John Lindell has called out Mark Driscoll for his actions and has received death threats as a result. The concept of 'modesty' in evangelical circles is often misused and places the burden on women to manage men's thoughts and actions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting 07:07 Josh Howerton's Apology and Plagiarism 31:26 Mark's Calculated Actions and Reactions 43:04 John Lindell's Call for Mark Driscoll to Repent 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

Summary In this conversation, Tim Whitaker and Dan Koch discuss the upcoming book by Richard B. Hayes, a respected New Testament scholar, titled 'The Widening of God's Mercy: A Thoroughly Biblical Account of LGBTQ Affirmation in the Church.' They explore the potential impact of the book and the various reactions it has received. They also discuss the importance of acknowledging the harm caused by previous non-affirming positions and the need for an apology. They consider the strategic implications of the book and its potential to shift the conversation in white evangelical spaces. They highlight the importance of listening to the voices of queer Christian scholars and the potential for the book to provide validation and support for those navigating their faith and sexuality. In this conversation, Tim Whitaker and Dan Koch discuss the complexities of personal beliefs and the influence of family and media. They explore the idea of holding contradictory views and the importance of integration and growth. Takeaways Richard B. Hayes, a respected New Testament scholar, has written a book titled 'The Widening of God's Mercy: A Thoroughly Biblical Account of LGBTQ Affirmation in the Church.' The book has received various reactions, ranging from skepticism to hopefulness. It is important to acknowledge the harm caused by previous non-affirming positions and to apologize for the damage done. The book has the potential to make a significant impact in white evangelical spaces, particularly among the rank and file members of churches. The strategic implications of the book should be considered, as it may provide validation and support for those navigating their faith and sexuality. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 06:47 Reactions and Expectations 26:52 Validation and Support for Navigating Faith and Sexuality 42:28 The Importance of Integration and Growth Connect with Dan Koch 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

Summary Sharon McMahon discusses her background. She emphasizes the importance of pluralism and focusing on behaviors rather than beliefs. She shares her passion for government and history, as well as the process of writing her book The Small and the Mighty.  Takeaways Engaging with different perspectives can be challenging but is essential for personal growth and learning. Online harassment is a significant issue, with women and minorities often facing more severe threats and abuse. Christian nationalism is a threat to democracy, with some proponents advocating for authoritarianism and the exclusion of certain groups. Polarization in American politics is not new, but the current era is unique due to factors such as the internet and media fragmentation. The founding of America was not explicitly intended to be a Christian nation, and the principles of democracy should be prioritized over religious affiliation. When voting, it is important to consider a candidate's character, commitment to democratic principles, and long-term impact rather than focusing solely on specific policies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 Questioning Faith and Beliefs 06:04 Pluralism and Behaviors 09:56 Dealing with Misinformation and Fake Experts 14:56 Passion for Government and History 21:47 Challenges of Being a Content Creator 32:44 Engaging with Different Perspectives 35:38 The Meanest Group on the Internet 41:21 Polarization in American History 45:02 Christian Nationalism and its Impact 51:21 The Founding of America and Christian Influence 01:02:18 Critical Thinking in the Voting Process Connect with Sharon McMahon 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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

Summary In this conversation, Tim responds to a viral clip of a mega church pastor giving marriage advice. He critiques the pastor's perspective on marriage, particularly the gendered and stereotypical views that men don't care about weddings and women's bodies belong to their husbands. Tim argues that this mentality wreaks havoc on people, especially women, and promotes unhealthy dynamics in marriages. He also discusses the damaging effects of purity culture and the lack of comprehensive sex education in evangelicalism. Tim concludes by urging for a more mutual and respectful approach to marriage. Takeaways Gendered and stereotypical views in marriage advice can be harmful and promote unhealthy dynamics. Purity culture teachings can lead to unsatisfactory sex lives and unhealthy marriages. Comprehensive sex education and open communication are essential for a healthy and mutual marriage. Mutuality and respect should be prioritized in marriages, rather than rigid gender roles. 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! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  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. 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