Straight White American Jesus

Explore the intriguing concept of 'love-bombing' as a mechanism for maintaining high-control Christianity. Discover how this tactic serves to undermine those questioning their faith while perpetuating religious institutions. The conversation uncovers the effects of religious trauma and manipulation linked to doctrinal teachings. Delve into how high-control groups often resort to gaslighting to silence valid critiques, creating a culture that keeps adherents within a tightly controlled belief system.

Explore the provocative idea that empathy is seen as a sin in some evangelical circles. The discussion critiques how this perspective can harm women and examines the troubling biblical interpretations behind it. The podcast also tackles the implications for women's rights, touching on feminism and emotional intelligence within faith communities. It questions traditional gender norms and the impact on church leadership. Ultimately, the conversation challenges dehumanizing attitudes toward empathy and encourages a reevaluation of its role in both theology and society.

In this discussion, Anthea Butler, an accomplished Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, sheds light on Trump's COVID diagnosis and its implications. She argues that his lack of empathy is rooted in prosperity gospel, capitalism, racism, and hypermasculinity. The conversation dives into the absurdity of prioritizing the economy over lives, the controversial prayer rally at the Lincoln Memorial, and how whiteness often shields individuals from the consequences of their actions. Butler's insights spark a compelling debate on faith, politics, and social responsibility.

This week, the discussion dives into the controversial deportation of Venezuelan nationals, raising critical questions about human rights and immigration policy. Tattoos as markers of identity come under scrutiny, linking personal art to broader societal biases. The removal of historical figures like Jackie Robinson from official records is explored, showcasing the impact of current political narratives. Ultimately, the conversation shifts to stories of hope, highlighting acts of resistance against oppressive regulations and celebrating community activism.

Tens of thousands gathered for a powerful rally on Yom Kippur, blending faith and political activism. Key leader Jenny Donnelly's influence within the Christian right was examined, showcasing how she mobilizes women through the Her Voice movement. The discussion highlighted the emotional intensity of collective prayer and rising anti-trans sentiments. Cultural symbols like Jezebel were unpacked, revealing their role in political discourse. There's a growing push for the next generation to engage in evangelism and community action, especially through music.

Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/“Are you mad at God?” This is a question that will almost certainly be posed to anyone undergoing faith deconstruction. It might come from someone who means well and who cares about the person deconstructing. Or it might come from a partisan advocate of high-control religion. What is happening when someone poses this question? Even if it comes from a place of care, how does it express the dynamics of high-control religion? And why, if it’s a question, does it so often feel like an attack, like a dismissal? Check out this week’s episode to hear Dan’s reflections on these and other issues related to this question.Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJCOrder Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/In this episode, Brad breaks down the troubling rhetoric from Christian nationalist pastors—and even figures like Elon Musk—who claim that empathy is a sin and a societal weakness. He critically examines Pastor Joe Rigney’s book, The Sin of Empathy, which argues that empathy is particularly dangerous for women and should be rejected in Christian teachings.Also joining the discussion is Dr. Jill Richardson, who offers practical strategies for consuming news without feeling overwhelmed. She shares small, actionable steps to stay informed while maintaining hope, joy, and humor in the fight against authoritarianism.Tune in for an insightful conversation on why empathy matters—and why some want to erase it.Jill's Substack Not Crying Wolf: https://jilleileenrichardson.substack.com/p/about-this-substackLinktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJCOrder Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The arrest of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil sparks a deep dive into free speech and activism amid the rise of Christian nationalism. The hosts explore the alarming conflation of Palestinian support with terrorism, scrutinizing political rhetoric and its implications for civil liberties. They discuss the marginalization of minority voices and how nationalism is shaping immigrant rights. The connection between education, politics, and religious nationalism is also dissected, revealing a troubling trend of censorship and political influence on schools.

Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/In this special episode of Straight White American Jesus' Brad and Dan delve into the recent indictment of Robert Morris, a former evangelical leader and advisor to Donald Trump. They discuss the intersection of patriarchy, purity culture, and the disturbing allegations against Morris, reflecting on previous coverage and interviews related to the case.Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJCOrder Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Calvillo, an expert on Latino Pentecostal communities, and Reverend Lois Olena, a scholar of the Holocaust and refugee advocate, delve into the shocking reality of ICE raids at churches. They discuss the emotional upheaval experienced by families during worship and the pivotal role of faith communities in advocating for immigrant rights. The conversation highlights contrasting views within Pentecostalism regarding immigration policies and the intertwined nature of faith and social justice, revealing how these challenges reshape church missions amid fear and hope.