In this fifth episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Micah Tomasella to discuss the complex relationship between faith and politics, particularly in the context of families, churches, and society at large. They explore how political issues have become increasingly divisive within families and church communities, especially over the past decade. 

The conversation touches on historical and cultural factors that have contributed to the rise of Christian nationalism and the blending of faith with politics. They emphasize the importance of keeping politics in its proper place, not allowing it to overshadow one's faith or become an idol. 

The discussion also covers the role of the church in guiding believers through political engagement, encouraging them to prioritize their faith and witness for Christ over political affiliations.

Topics

• (02:57): Personal Experiences with Politics
• (07:52): The Rise of Identity Politics
• (12:24): Historical and Cultural Factors
• (20:11): The Impact of Social Media
• (25:09): Patriotism vs. Nationalism
• (30:25): Historical Parallels: Founding Fathers and Modern Politics
• (32:46): The Nature of American Politics: Tension and Unity
• (36:20): Faith and Politics: Finding Balance
• (40:03): Political Idolatry: A Call for Reflection
• (50:28): The Role of the Church in Political Discourse
• (55:00): Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Resources

Episode Transcript (PDF)

Related Denison Forum podcasts: 

• American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church: A conversation with Andrew L. Whitehead
• The Coming Tsunami a year later: Dr. Jim Denison on politics as religion, AI ethics, and peaceful cultural engagement
• When politics get extreme, what should Christians do? A conversation with Tim Alberta
• Why must Christians be civil in uncivil times?
• What does it mean to be a Christian patriot?
• How to be a good citizen of heaven and America: A conversation with Jim Denison
• Navigating extremism: A conversation with Elizabeth Neumann

Related Denison Forum articles and resources:

• Respectfully, I Disagree by Dr. Jim Denison - Audiobook - Audible.com
• Election 2024: Discern politics differently
• The Coming Tsunami
• What the controversial “God & Country” documentary gets right and wrong: Should you watch?
• The lost art of civility • Denison Forum
• A majority of Americans aren't proud to be American: Why the difference between pride and patriotism matters
• What does the Bible say about politics? • Denison Forum
• How should Christians vote?
• November is nigh: 6 significant midterm issues for concerned Christian voters

Other trusted resources: 

• Exiles: The Church in the Shadow of Empire
• The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism
• The After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics - Redeeming Babel
• Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from Here
• Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America: Moore, Russell
• Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the Elephant
• Your Party Will Not Win This Election | Christianity Today

About Micah Tomasella

Micah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are proud parents of two young daughters, Olivia and Joanna. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.

About Dr. Mark Turman

Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.

About Denison Forum

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.