Issues, Etc. Media Coverage of Philip Yancey’s Confession to an Extra-Marital Affair – Terry Mattingly, 1/7/26 (0072)
Jan 7, 2026
Terry Mattingly, a senior fellow on communications and culture and author, dives into the recent scandal surrounding Philip Yancey's confession to an extra-marital affair. He explores how media portrays 'good' evangelicals and Yancey's evolution within evangelicalism. The discussion touches on his message of grace, the changing dynamics of Christianity Today, and the impact of evangelical women's voices on accountability. Mattingly also raises questions about the timing of disclosures and the growing trend of scandals among evangelical leaders.
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Billy Graham Couldn't Define 'Evangelical'
- Terry Mattingly recounts asking Billy Graham how to define 'evangelical' and Graham replying he had no idea what it meant then.
- Mattingly uses that exchange to show the term's changing, contested meaning in evangelicalism.
Focus Coverage On Doctrine And Affiliation
- Mattingly urges journalists to avoid politics and instead probe denominational ties and doctrinal statements when covering Yancey.
- He advises focusing on how Yancey's beliefs and affiliations shaped his public role.
Yancey's 'Scandal Of Grace' Framed His Work
- Mattingly highlights 'the scandal of grace' as Philip Yancey's defining theme that softened harsh evangelical portrayals.
- He questions how Yancey's grace emphasis interacts with repentance and possible universalist readings.
