When Politics Turn Hostile Toward Christianity (feat. Guy Hammond)

Navigating Faith in a Politically Divided World: The Challenges of Upholding Biblical Truth

Today’s episode will help us understand how to navigate faith and uphold biblical principles in a politically divided world, especially regarding LGBTQ issues.

In this compelling episode, Bobby Harrington, point leader of RENEW.org, gathers with Daniel McCoy, John Whitaker, and special guest Guy Hammond to discuss how Christians can navigate their faith in a politically divided world. Guy Hammond, leader of the Strength in Weakness ministry, shares his personal journey from a former gay life to becoming a devout Christian and his challenges in maintaining his ministry amidst restrictive Canadian laws. The conversation delves into the significance of standing for biblical truth, the impact on church leaders and church environments, and what the future holds for Christian ethics, especially in areas like assisted suicide. This episode provides a sobering look at cultural and legal shifts impacting Christian practices and offers guidance on how to remain steadfast in faith.

Get the Book on Following Jesus in a Politically Divided World: https://a.co/d/35XLxSE 

Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions
02:07 Guy Hammond's Background and Ministry
03:49 Challenges of Following Jesus in a Politically Divided World
04:50 Legal and Social Pressures in Canada
10:53 Broader Implications for Christians
20:30 Advice for Christians in the United States
26:57 Spiritual Impact of a Hostile Environment
28:03 Identifying the Real Enemy
29:35 Living Well as a Form of Resistance
32:15 Challenges in Church Leadership
33:24 Advice for Church Leaders
34:26 Creating a Welcoming Church Environment
36:04 Personal Journey to Faith
38:00 Support from Other Churches
39:48 Secularization and Opposition in Canada
41:40 Moving Operations to the United States
45:52 Assisted Suicide and Sanctity of Life
49:51 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

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View more information about this topic here: https://renew.org/product/following-jesus-in-a-politically-divided-world-an-interactive-guide-to-21-questions-on-christianity-and-politics/ 

In this podcast episode, Bobby Harrington leads a discussion with Guy Hammond, John Whittaker, and Daniel McCoy on navigating faith in a politically divided world. Bobby kicks things off by introducing his guests, all of whom play significant roles in their ministries, and sets the stage by acknowledging the challenging political and social landscape Christians face today.

Guy Hammond, the Executive Director of "Strength in Weakness," shares his story of transitioning from an active gay lifestyle to a committed Christian life, during which he has abstained from homosexual activity for nearly 40 years. His ministry now supports Christians dealing with unwanted same-sex attractions and their families.

Guy also discusses the broader cultural and political changes in Canada, where traditional Christian beliefs are increasingly dismissed as myths. He warns that the U.S. could face a similar path if these trends continue.
Bobby then points out the sharp decline in church attendance in Canada, comparing it to the 1960s when more Canadians attended church regularly than Americans. He sees this decline as part of a broader cultural shift away from Christian values.

In response to Daniel McCoy’s questions, Guy reiterates the difficulties Christians face in upholding their beliefs amid political and social pressures. He advises against viewing LGBTQ individuals as enemies, urging Christians instead to focus on opposing ideologies that contradict biblical principles.

John Whittaker connects the conversation to themes from First Peter, encouraging Christians to be known for doing good, even when misunderstood or maligned, aligning with Guy’s idea that living well is a form of resistance and testimony.

Guy also mentions that Muslim communities in Canada, like conservative Christians, are pushing back against liberal laws on sexuality and parental rights, showing that traditional values on these issues are not unique to Christianity.

As the episode concludes, Guy highlights resources from his ministry, including a documentary about his life, "Finding Guy," which serves as an educational tool for Christians dealing with LGBTQ issues. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the spiritual challenges of living in a politically charged environment.

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