Diana Butler Bass: Truth & Kindness in the Public Square
Aug 22, 2024
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Diana Butler Bass, an author and scholar on American religion, joins Pastor Joel Webbon, a proponent of traditional patriarchy. They dive into the alarming rise of Christian nationalism and its implications for democracy, particularly regarding women’s rights. The conversation reveals the importance of truth and kindness in political discourse, pushing for active listening and compassion even in disagreement. They also highlight the need to foster inclusive relationships amid a climate of cultural antagonism, emphasizing the role of theology in these discussions.
The podcast highlights the growing threat of Christian nationalism, which seeks to undermine democracy and women's rights through outdated patriarchal ideologies.
A central theme of the discussion is the necessity of balancing truth and kindness in political discourse to foster inclusion and understanding.
Deep dives
The Role of Progressive Christianity in Political Engagement
Progressive Christianity faces unique challenges in engaging with the public square amid cultural anxiety and political division. The conversation highlights how progressive Christian thought leaders must navigate issues of deep resentment and antagonism while remaining committed to their values. This includes the promotion of authentic peace and radical love as essential responses to the prevailing political climate. As progressive Christians contribute to political discourse, they are called to reflect on their role amid shifting dynamics in society, especially in the context of heightened political violence.
The Threat of Christian Nationalism
Christian nationalism poses significant threats to democratic values and the rights of women, as illustrated by the extreme views of proponents like Joel Webbin. He argues for a return to a patriarchal structure that undermines women's rights, expressing a desire to repeal the 19th Amendment. Such views highlight a broader attempt to reshape society according to antiquated norms that deny the existence and contributions of women and others outside traditional power structures. The danger lies not only in the advocacy for these regressive ideologies but also in their potential to harm individuals and fracture democratic society.
Democracy as a Pathway to Common Good
The discussion emphasizes democracy as a valuable system for coexistence amidst differences, promoting the idea that all voices should be heard. It reinforces the belief that democracy allows for the mediation of conflicts without resorting to violence or coercion, an ideal lost if society drifts towards autocracy. The expansion of rights and inclusion in democracy is seen as a continuing journey toward the common good, necessitating active participation from all members of society. This perspective challenges the notion that political engagement is inherently oppositional, advocating instead for collaborative efforts across differing viewpoints.
Balancing Truth and Kindness in Discourse
The conversation explores the delicate balance between speaking truthfully and maintaining kindness in discussions about contentious societal issues. It posits that truth-telling should not be perceived as antagonistic but rather as a necessary aspect of fostering meaningful dialogue. Understanding that kindness does not mean avoiding uncomfortable truths is crucial, particularly when analyzing harmful ideologies like those of Christian nationalists. The discussion encourages a thoughtful approach to communication, advocating for the recognition of shared humanity while addressing critical societal challenges with compassion.
In this episode of Ruining Dinner, Diana and Tripp discuss the rising influence of Christian nationalism, highlighting an interview with Pastor Joel Webbon, who advocates for a return to patriarchy and speaks against democracy. The conversation then expands to the cultural antagonism present in America and the importance of truth, kindness, and listening in political discourse. The conversation then reflects on the role of democracy in managing differences and the theological and ethical implications of truth and kindness in fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.
This episode is sponsored by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. The assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump underscores the ever-present threat of political violence in the United States. In such a time as this, the Christian work of peacemaking in our communities is essential.
So, what are we to do? The ways of the world are violence, retribution, dehumanization, political and religious extremism, and living in echo chambers. Instead, we can choose to love radically and work courageously for authentic and positive peace.
Join us in person or online Sept. 22-24 at the Henderson Leadership Conference Faithful Resistance: Choosing Christ Over Empire, led by Dr. Diana Butler Bass and the Rev. Dr. Leah D. Schade, for timely, inspiring lectures and workshops full of strategies for ministry and laypeople amid political and theological divisions.