
Sons of Patriarchy From Mars Hill to Moscow: A Conversation with Mike Cosper
Dec 7, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Mike Cosper, a journalist at Christianity Today and former pastor, explores the impact of Mark Driscoll and Doug Wilson on modern church ideologies. He draws fascinating parallels between abusive church systems and dictatorships while reflecting on his work with the Rise and Fall of Mars Hill podcast. Cosper examines how current cultural shifts influence church dynamics and advocates for a return to prioritizing the gospel over power. His insights challenge listeners to think critically and foster healthier church communities.
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Ideology Turns Churches Into Mini-Dictatorships
- When churches adopt ideological frameworks they begin to justify moral compromises and abuse as necessary for the mission.
- Mike Cosper links this to Hannah Arendt's work on totalitarianism and the banality of evil.
Elder Revolt Turned Into Excommunication
- Cosper narrates the elder dispute at Mars Hill where an elder, Paul, raised polity concerns and was publicly shamed and excommunicated.
- The episode became a turning point showing how concentrated power enabled abusive expulsion.
Loneliness Enables Dictatorial Religion
- "Dark times" mean cultural disconnection and loneliness that make people vulnerable to charismatic dictators.
- Cosper sees current cultural crossroads as fertile ground for restorationist and nationalistic impulses.





