

The Rise and Fall of the Evangelical Church: A Conversation with Mike Cosper
Dec 10, 2024
Mike Cosper, a journalist and podcaster at Christianity Today, dives into the unsettling parallels between modern evangelicalism and Hannah Arendt's views on totalitarianism in his latest book. He explores the rise of celebrity pastors and how cultural forces distort the church’s mission. Cosper discusses the challenges of Trump-era evangelicalism, the struggle for authentic faith, and the need for humility within the church. This thought-provoking conversation reflects on the evolving identity of Christians and the importance of inclusivity in a divided society.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Paul Petrie's Story
- Paul Petrie, a beloved pastor at Mars Hill, challenged leadership changes.
- This led to his dismissal, highlighting the dangers of centralized power.
Loneliness and Susceptibility
- Loneliness makes people susceptible to leaders offering belonging and purpose.
- This vulnerability can lead to involvement in harmful movements or organizations.
Erosion of Denominations and Celebrity Culture
- The erosion of denominations and the rise of celebrity culture contribute to church corruption.
- These factors create environments lacking accountability and formative institutions.