The Leader’s Way 58: The Idolatry of White Nationalism with Jim Wallis
Jul 14, 2025
Jim Wallis, a public theologian and founder of Sojourners, shares his insights on navigating the intersection of faith and social justice. He examines the troubling intertwining of Christianity and political allegiances, particularly among evangelicals, while advocating for truth in resisting nationalism. Wallis emphasizes the necessity of spiritual practices in leadership, and highlights the unifying efforts of faith communities against deportation raids. He also discusses the difference between optimism and hope, underscoring the importance of choosing hope in challenging times.
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From Detroit Janitor To Sojourners Founder
- Jim Wallis left his white evangelical church after questioning racial and economic segregation and found community in Black churches.
- Reading Matthew 25 transformed him into activism and led to founding Sojourners as a faith-based movement.
Matthew 25 As The Gospel’s Core Test
- Matthew 25 functions as a radical gatekeeper defining discipleship by care for the vulnerable rather than creedal tests.
- Wallis calls it his conversion text and the decisive standard for Christian practice and judgment.
Church Under The Bridge Story
- A fired chaplain formed a 'church under the bridge' after preaching Matthew 25 and found deeper discipleship.
- Wallis recounts the chaplain thanking him for provoking that costly but faithful ministry.
