Bonus: How Should Christians Handle Political Differences with Collin Hansen
Nov 24, 2023
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Journalist Collin Hansen and Pastor J.D. Greear discuss how Christians can navigate political differences in today's divided society. They emphasize building deeper relationships beyond political disagreements and offer practical tips for handling conversations with family and friends. The conversation touches on the historical context of political divide, the influence of social media algorithms, and the importance of genuine communication.
Political divisiveness is a recurring challenge fueled by social media, impacting personal interactions and societal dynamics.
Navigating political engagement in the digital era requires critical thinking, meaningful dialogue, and a balanced approach.
Deep dives
Perennial Nature of Political Division
Political divisiveness, especially in the age of the internet, is not a new phenomenon but rather a recurring challenge throughout history. The all-encompassing nature of politics, fueled by social media, has made it a defining aspect of modern society. Individuals now project their identities through political beliefs, leading to a pervasive influence on personal interactions and societal dynamics.
Impact of Social Media and Interconnected Politics
The rise of social media has transformed political discourse by making information readily available and shaping individual perspectives through tailored content. The integration of politics into daily life, exemplified by issues like COVID-19 and mask-wearing, reflects a new era where political alignment defines personal identity more prominently than ever before.
Challenges of Political Engagement in the Digital Age
Navigating political engagement in the digital era presents unique challenges, with algorithm-driven platforms promoting polarization and sensationalism. The profit-driven nature of social media amplifies divisive content, exacerbating societal fragmentation. Encouraging critical thinking and seeking meaningful dialogue beyond political divides are essential to fostering a balanced approach to political involvement.
Join J.D. Greear for a special bonus episode of his podcast, 12 Truths & A Lie. Pastor J.D. is joined by his good friend and journalist, Collin Hansen to wrestle with the question, “How Should Christians Handle Political Differences?” Listen as Collin and J.D. take a deep dive into how we got to where we are in our society, where political and cultural differences have divided us as never before. The conversation gets very practical when J.D. asks Collin, “How should we tackle conversations around the dinner table with our friends and family to avoid the blow-up usually caused by political disagreements?” Collin’s answer invites us to take a genuine interest in people’s actual lives and pursue deeper relationships rather than sniping each other over political disagreements. Download and listen to this amazing conversation between two longtime friends.
Collin Hansen serves as vice president for content and editor-in-chief of The Gospel Coalition, as well as executive director of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. He hosts the Gospelbound podcast and has written and contributed to many books, most recently Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation and Rediscover Church: Why the Body of Christ Is Essential. He has published with the New York Times and the Washington Post and offered commentary for CNN, Fox News, NPR, BBC, ABC News, and PBS NewsHour. He edited Our Secular Age: Ten Years of Reading and Applying Charles Taylor and The New City Catechism Devotional, among other books. He is an adjunct professor at Beeson Divinity School, where he also co-chairs the advisory board.