Christianity’s Crossroads: Faith, Democracy, and America’s Future

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Feb 3, 2025

In this conversation, Jonathan Rauch, an author and advocate for the intersection of faith and democracy, discusses his book, "Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy." He examines Christianity's decline in America and its effects on democracy, arguing for a return to core Christian principles. The dialogue covers political polarization, the need for a civic theology, and the duality of faith—how it can inspire both good and bad. Rauch also reflects on the challenges of secularism in fulfilling spiritual needs and fostering community.

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ANECDOTE

Changed Perspective

Jonathan Rauch, initially hostile towards Christianity, roomed with a devout Christian in college.
This experience exposed him to true Christian kindness, changing his perspective.

INSIGHT

The Great De-Churching

Christianity, especially white Protestantism, is declining rapidly in America.
This decline, termed "The Great De-Churching," is unprecedented and concerning.

INSIGHT

Christianity's Role in Democracy

Christianity served as a "load-bearing wall" for American democracy by fostering civic engagement and shared purpose.
Its decline has led to the transfer of religious energies to political movements, fueling polarization.

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Cross Purposes

Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy

Jonathan Rauch

In 'Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy,' Jonathan Rauch delves into the intricate and often contentious relationship between Christianity and democratic governance. The book explores how the principles of Christianity can sometimes conflict with the democratic ideals of a society, leading to a 'broken bargain' that affects both the religious and the political spheres. Rauch analyzes the historical, philosophical, and practical aspects of this relationship, offering insights into how these two powerful forces interact and influence each other.

The Constitution of Knowledge

Jonathan Rauch

The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory

American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism

Tim Alberta

In 'The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory', Tim Alberta provides an expansive and profoundly troubling portrait of the American evangelical movement. The book explores how evangelical Christians have become polarized and entangled in partisan politics and cultural warfare, straying from the core teachings of Christ. Alberta investigates the ways conservative Christians have pursued and abused power, highlighting the disconnect from New Testament scripture. He documents the growing fracture within American Christianity, the impact of events like Donald Trump's presidency and the COVID-19 pandemic, and the challenges faced by individual pastors and churches in a rapidly secularizing America.

The Book of Mormon

Another Testament of Jesus Christ

Mormon and Moroni

Joseph Smith

The Book of Mormon is a scripture that tells the story of a group of Hebrews who migrated from Jerusalem to the Americas around 600 BCE. It describes their history, including their division into two main groups: the Nephites and the Lamanites. The book emphasizes the appearance of Jesus Christ to these people after his resurrection, where he teaches them and establishes his church. It also discusses various doctrinal topics such as the fall of Adam and Eve, the nature of God, baptism, and the importance of faith and repentance. The book ends with Moroni's testimony and an invitation to readers to come unto Christ and be perfected in him[1][3][5].

In this episode of The Mona Charen Podcast, Mona Charen speaks with author Jonathan Rauch about his new book, Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy. They explore the decline of Christianity in America, its impact on democracy, and whether faith can be depoliticized. Rauch, a self-described “atheistic homosexual Jew,” makes the case that Christianity has been a vital “load-bearing wall” for American democracy and argues for a return to its core principles. The conversation touches on political polarization, the role of faith in public life, and what small-l liberals and conservatives alike can learn from the evolving role of religion in society.

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REFERENCES:
Books by Jonathan Rauch:

Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy (his new book)
The Constitution of Knowledge (his previous book)

Articles:

An article by Jonathan Rauch in The Atlantic (2003) celebrating secularization, which he later called "the dumbest thing I ever wrote."

Books and Works Referenced:

Tim Alberta’s The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory (referred to in discussion about the church and politics)
A quote attributed to G.K. Chesterton: “When people cease to believe in God, they don’t believe in nothing, they believe in anything” (noted as possibly apocryphal).
Russell Moore's commentary on the state of the church.
The Bible (including references to Jesus’ teachings such as "forgive your enemies" and "the least of these").
A quote from John Adams: “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”
The Book of Mormon (mentioned in the discussion of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).
Immanuel Kant’s ethical philosophy (used to support moral arguments).
Rabbi Hillel’s summary of the Torah: “That which is hateful to you, do not do unto your neighbor. All the rest is commentary. Now go and study.”

Legislation and Policies Referenced:

The 1964 Civil Rights Act (mentioning its religious exemptions).
The Utah Compromise (2015) on LGBT rights and religious freedoms.
The Respect for Marriage Act (2022), which protected same-sex marriage while also ensuring religious protections.