Data Over Dogma Is Allie Beth Stuckey a Sheep or a Goat?
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Jun 30, 2025 This week features a fiery debate between Dan McClellan and Allie Beth Stuckey over the parable of the sheep and the goats, questioning compassion and the meaning of 'brothers and sisters' in a modern context. The conversation delves into ancient papyri from Elephantine Island, revealing surprising insights about early Judaism. The hosts further explore the nuances of immigration law and the ethical treatment of asylum seekers, mixing humor with serious discussions about empathy, social responsibility, and the intersection of faith and current affairs.
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Interpreting Sheep and Goats
- Matthew 25's "sheep and goats" simile involves final judgment based on care for "the least of these brothers and sisters."
- The interpretation that this refers only to persecuted Christians is debated, with a stronger case for including all followers of Jesus.
Immigrants as 'Least of These'
- Most immigrants targeted by harsh US immigration policies are Christians, undermining claims that only persecuted Christians count.
- Excluding many suffering migrants from "the least of these" is a callous reading of scripture.
Broader Scope of Compassion
- Matthew 25 implies care for anyone suffering from hardship, not only Christians.
- This challenges narrow readings that exclude migrants and vulnerable people not persecuted specifically for faith.
