The Libertarian Christian Podcast

Host Cody Cook welcomes Alexandre Christoyannopoulos to talk about Christian anarchism, Christian pacifism, and whether these ideas are practical and achievable. Alex is a lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Loughborough University and the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Pacifism and Nonviolence. He's also the author of the excellent book Christian Anarchism: A Political Commentary on the Gospel. This was a great conversation that we are excited to share with you all.Alexandre’s websiteGet his book Christian AnarchismFollow him on TwitterAudio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Host Cody Cook welcomes theologian and author Jason Porterfield for an in-depth discussion on his book, Fight Like Jesus: How Jesus Waged Peace Throughout Holy Week. Porterfield draws from his academic background and personal experiences to offer a fresh perspective on the events of Holy Week, challenging conventional interpretations and exploring the multifaceted approach Jesus took towards peacemaking.The conversation kicks off with a focus on Palm Sunday, where they delve into the significance of Jesus's lament over Jerusalem and how it sets the tone for understanding Holy Week. You'll learn why the crowd's use of palm branches and Jesus riding a donkey instead of a horse are rich with historical and political implications.This episode is a compelling blend of historical context, theological reflection, and practical application, making it essential listening for anyone interested in the deeper meanings of Holy Week and the teachings of Jesus. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that promises to challenge and enrich your understanding of Christian peacemaking.Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

In this landmark 400th episode of the Libertarian Christian Podcast, hosts Doug Stuart and Cody Cook welcome back Jim Babka for a reflective conversation on the state of the libertarian movement today. Babka, a significant figure in the libertarian movement, shares his journey to libertarianism dating back to 1996 and recounts his transformative experiences working with liberty icon Harry Brown. As they celebrate this podcast milestone, the discussion delves into the evolving landscape of libertarianism, from the consistent core values to the shifts influenced by cultural and political changes like the escalation of the culture war.Additional Resources:Liberty from A-Z, by Harry BrowneHarry Browne’s 9/12 article, “When Will We Learn?”Harry Browne’s 1996 acceptance speech (video)Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Doug Stuart dives into a thought-provoking conversation with pastor, chaplain, and missionary Benj Giffone. As they discuss Benj's new book, A House Divided: Technology, Worship and Healing the Church After COVID, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the impacts of COVID-19 on church communities and the essential role of worship, liturgy, and epistemology in restoring connection and faith. Benj shares his experiences as a professor and pastor during the pandemic, highlighting the challenges of transitioning to digital worship and the broader implications for church leadership. This episode explores the importance of reconciling past missteps through humility and repentance, and how a renewed commitment to truth can foster healing and unity in the church. Join Doug and Benj as they navigate these crucial discussions, encouraging churches to reflect on their actions and seek a path toward restoration and renewal. Whether you're a church leader, congregant, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and technology, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for moving forward.Order A House Divided: https://housedividedbook.comAudio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Host Cody Cook welcomes David Ritchie, author of Why Do the Nations Rage?: The Demonic Origin of Nationalism. Ritchie notes how sin can manifest in corporate and systemic structures, employing Paul's writings and John's triad of the flesh, world, and Satan to highlight these spiritual and societal dimensions.The conversation addresses the contemporary relevance of nationalism and its potential to distort Christian faith. Ritchie, a pastor, reflects on his own pastoral journey, the challenges of addressing political idolatry, and the importance of spiritual discernment in positions of authority.Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Doug Stuart welcomes back Dr. Cal Beisner, founder and national spokesman of the Cornwall Alliance for the Stewardship of Creation. Dr. Beisner discusses his book Prosperity and Poverty: The Compassionate Use of Resources in a World of Scarcity, originally published in the late 1980s. The conversation delves into how the principles outlined in the book remain relevant today, addressing issues such as the compassionate use of resources, economic justice, and the role of stewardship in a biblical context.Dr. Beisner provides a critique of Ron Sider’s influential book Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger, analyzing how economic principles have been interpreted within Christian circles. The episode explores the notion of social justice, differentiating between biblical and contemporary interpretations, and offers insights into effective responses to poverty through a Christian lens. Dr. Beisner's discussion is enriched by historical perspectives and his own experiences in the economics committee of the Coalition on Revival. He also offers suggestions for Christians and church leaders on how to actively address poverty through stewardship and charity, emphasizing the need for proper economic understanding aligned with biblical teachings.Listeners interested in learning more about Dr. Beisner’s work can explore resources available through the Cornwall Alliance and are encouraged to read his detailed exploration of justice in both economic and social domains. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about how Christians can navigate and influence discussions on wealth, poverty, and stewardship today.Additional Resources:Cornwall Alliance website (cornwallalliance.org)Social Justice vs. Biblical Justice available from Cornwall AllianceThe Book that Made Your World by Vishal MangalwadiWhen Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Host Cody Cook engages economist and author of The Economic Condition of Black America in the 20th Century, Germinal Van, in an enlightening discussion on significant socio-economic and historical issues affecting Black Americans. The episode dives deep into topics like selection bias among highly educated Asian immigrants and the economic conditions of Black Americans from emancipation through the civil rights movement to the present day.Through historical anecdotes like the successes of Black Wall Street and prominent figures such as Booker T. Washington and W. E. B. Du Bois, Germinal Van unpacks the complex interplay between market reliance and systemic barriers. The conversation critically examines the impact of 20th-century political and economic shifts, notably the detrimental effects of welfare programs and policies like the 1994 crime bill, which perpetuated racial disparities.This episode maintains a thoughtful balance, recognizing systemic issues while also advocating for personal responsibility, skill development, and market-based solutions to achieve true economic emancipation for Black Americans. Join us for an engaging and intellectually stimulating conversation that challenges prevailing narratives and explores paths to a more equitable society. Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Host Cody Cook welcomed John Wrench from the Institute for Justice to talk about the history of the judiciary gutting the U.S. Constitution’s 14th amendment protections, as told in IJ's excellent podcast Bound By Oath. Tune in for a fascinating, and sometimes horrifying, look back.Note: this episode was recorded prior to Trump's inauguration, so the controversy over the president's attempts to repeal birthright citizenship through executive order is not discussed. However, this discussion will provide a lot of the background necessary to understand this particular debate.Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Host Cody Cook is joined by Glen Scrivener, an ordained Church of England minister and evangelist, to discuss his book The Air We Breathe—a fascinating and very readable account of how Christianity has profoundly shaped Western thought and morality. In both the book and in this conversation, Glen demonstrates that Western values such as equality, compassion, consent, freedom, and progress are deeply rooted in Christian ethics.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how Christian principles have shaped—and continue to influence—our world today. This comprehensive dialogue not only offers a historical perspective but also provides a reflective view on the current intersection of faith and culture. Don't miss this engaging and thought-provoking episode.Books referenced in this episode:The Air We Breathe by Glen ScrivenerThe WEIRDest People in the World by Joseph HenrichThe Case Against the Sexual Revolution by Louise PerryJustice for All: How the Jewish Bible Revolutionized Ethics by Jeremiah UntermanAudio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Host Cody Cook sits down with Jacob Winograd, an LCI colleague and host of the Biblical Anarchy podcast, as Jacob revisits one of his earlier episodes on the question: "what is biblical anarchy?"The conversation kicks off with a discussion on the evolution of anarchist thought, from left anarchists like Joseph Proudhon to 20th-century figures like Murray Rothbard, offering a comprehensive understanding of how anarchists approach issues like property rights, self-ownership, and capitalism.Moving into the biblical justification for anarchy, Cody and Jacob debate the nature of governance during the period of the judges in Israel and whether it can be considered an anarchist society. They also explore the New Testament perspective, focusing on Romans 12 and 13, to tease out whether Christians are called to participate in or separate from civil governance.Tune in to this thought-provoking conversation that promises to enlighten and challenge your perspective on governance from a biblical anarchy viewpoint.Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★