Politicology ENCORE: Democracy’s Christian Enemies — Part 1
Jan 29, 2026
David Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics and author, reflects on his journey from Baptist roots to a post-evangelical scholar. He explores tensions between Christian traditions and democratic values. He defines “Authoritarian Reactionary Christianity,” traces religious counter-revolutions after secular change, and examines how certain Christian movements can erode democratic norms.
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Personal Journey From Pastor To Public Ethicist
- David Gushee recounts his path from a Southern Baptist youth minister to a post-evangelical public ethicist.
- He describes preaching and pastoral care alongside academic work and a public recantation on LGBTQ issues that changed his career.
Listener's Gratitude For Moral Reversal
- Ron Steslow shares how Gushee's book Changing Our Mind helped his own departure from Pentecostal views on sexuality.
- He thanks Gushee for the personal and communal impact of publicly changing his mind.
Leverage Shared Faith For Better Dialogue
- Use shared Christian faith as a platform to hold difficult, fruitful conversations across political divides.
- Ground debates in scripture and prayerful listening to reduce polarization and enable mutual understanding.
