The Libertarian Christian Podcast

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Dr. Michael Rectenwald is a former Marxist joining Doug Stuart to explain The Great Reset. Dr. Rectenwald is the author of twelve books, including The Great Reset and the Struggle for Liberty: Unraveling the Global Agenda (Jan. 2023), Thought Criminal (Dec. 2020); Beyond Woke (May 2020); Google Archipelago: The Digital Gulag and the Simulation of Freedom (Sept. 2019); Springtime for Snowflakes: “Social Justice” and Its Postmodern Parentage (an academic’s memoir, 2018); Nineteenth-Century British Secularism: Science, Religion and Literature (2016); Academic Writing, Real World Topics (2015, Concise Edition 2016); Global Secularisms in a Post-Secular Age (2015); Breach (Collected Poems, 2013); The Thief and Other Stories (2013); and The Eros of the Baby-Boom Eras (1991). (See the Books page.)In this episode Dr. Rectenwald fleshes out questions explaining the connection between Marxism and woke ideology, and that connection to Klaus Schwab’s, The Great Reset, a plan with the World Economic Forum to monopolize the world economy. The discussion highlights some key point including the seemingly innocuous nature of the gateway ideologies to Marxism – namely, social justice, anti-racism, etc. If you’ve been interested in understanding more about the Great Reset, listen to this episode and consider purchasing Dr. Revtenwald’s book.(Re-Mastered for Re-Issue.)Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Special guests Sarah Stone and Evan McClanahan join us to disucss their innovative initiative, Theology by the Pint. This exciting forum has transformed the traditional setting of theological discussions by incorporating a casual atmosphere where young professionals can gather, pint in hand, to delve into deep and sometimes controversial topics.Sarah and Evan share their experiences of hosting these events, emphasizing the importance of creating a warm and charitable environment even when discussing contentious issues such as LGBTQ matters within the church. Their approach to include diverse viewpoints, like an affirming pastor, showcases their commitment to love and charity in disagreements, and underscores the value of humor and respect in such dialogues. The episode also touches on making theological discussions accessible to a broad audience, from those well-versed in theology to individuals who might feel overwhelmed by complex jargon. Sarah shares her strategy of pausing to clarify terms and encouraging explanatory parenthetical statements to ensure everyone is on the same page.The conversation further explores the organization's democratic process in choosing discussion topics, the types of government systems they tackle, the impact of political rhetoric on Christian beliefs, and the ever-present challenge of maintaining integrity while hosting diverse and sometimes conflicting views. Listeners will also get a preview of upcoming events, including a notable June 11, 2024, gathering with Norman Horn, founder of the Libertarian Christian Institute. Additionally, the episode highlights the community aspects of Theology by the Pint events, which feature social hours, charity spotlights, trivia, and open Q&A sessions allowing for real-time audience engagement.Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Cody Cook joins us once again to delve deep into the complex relationship between Christianity, libertarianism, and the contentious issue of violence and military service. Cody Cook, informed by his Christian anarchist and Anabaptist perspective, presents a critical analysis of various biblical passages often cited in discussions about Christians taking up arms or serving in the military. Cook challenges traditional interpretations of the passage in Luke that suggests Jesus condoned his disciples buying swords, arguing instead for an understanding that aligns with fulfilling specific prophecies rather than advocating for self-defense. Backed by four solid reasons, including historical contexts and Tertullian's insights, Cook makes a compelling case for a nonviolent interpretation of Scripture.The discussion touches on the delicate balance between the Christian impulse for self-protection and the promotion of long-term peace, debating the impact of Romans 13 on the present-day Christian libertarian thought. Cook and Stuart unpack the nuances around the topics of Christian nationalism and the implications of self-defense within a libertarian framework, understanding that these views may diverge within the Christian community.Listeners will also get a glimpse into Cody Cook's literary contributions, including his books "What Belongs to Caesar," "Fight the Powers," and "Christian Nationalism," which provide further reading on these complex subjects and are available for LCI Insiders.The dialogue brings forward the universal question of whether a Christian can reconcile serving as a soldier with their faith, as exemplified by the New Testament figure Cornelius. With a dose of humor and earnest reflection, Doug and Cody invite listeners to reconsider the interpretations that underpin their beliefs regarding violence and nonviolence in the New Testament.Enrich your understanding of how libertarian principles mesh with Christian ethics and join our hosts as they navigate these critical issues with insight, reverence, and a willingness to challenge conventional viewpoints. Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Cody Cook is back for a deep dive into the complexities of interpreting Romans 13. Cody challenges traditional readings of these passages, suggesting that the Apostle Paul may have employed irony or even sarcasm when discussing the role of magistrates and the obedience due to them. Are rulers always to be obeyed, and do they consistently execute good? Cody argues otherwise, referencing external literature and historical context to support his claim.Throughout the conversation, both Doug and Cody shed light on the responsibility of Christians to live a non-violent life, fueled by love that overshadows or catalyzes the judgment against oppressive rulers. They explore the nuanced Greek language and bring to the forefront the scholarly perspectives of T.L. Carter, along with thoughts from NT Wright and Michael Bird, suggesting a more ironic take on Paul's words.Listeners will be invited to reconsider what it means to honor the magistrate and reflect on the broader implications of a duty-bound Christian conscience in the face of authority. This is a critical examination of libertarian and potentially anarchist views on governance, questioning if the state is indeed the sole model for societal order.Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

In this thought-provoking episode of the Libertarian Christian Podcast, our host Doug Stuart and special guest Cody Cook delve deep into the intricate balance between Christian duty and libertarian principles in the context of taxation. Drawing from the insights from Cody's book, we explore the controversial story in Matthew 17, where Jesus addresses the temple tax and lays the groundwork for a Christian understanding of fiscal obligations.Guided by the Gospel's wisdom, we unpack the statement "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's, and unto God what is God's," and its relevance for libertarian Christians today. Cody Cook challenges the mainstream interpretation of divided allegiance between God and Caesar, arguing that the passage is not inherently contradictory for libertarians. As Jesus adeptly navigates the trap set by the Pharisees and Herodians, we learn the subtleties of non-confrontational tax compliance and the avoidance of unnecessary offense.The duo also tackles broader questions of ownership and property rights, dissecting passages like Psalm 24 and Job 41:11, to contrast divine and human claims. Cody and Doug offer different hermeneutical perspectives, cautioning against simplistic readings and highlighting the historical and economic contexts of the scriptures.This episode includes references to "Render unto Caesar," Psalm 24, Job 41:11, Matthew 17, and Matthew 22:15-22. Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

How does the Economic Way of Thinking affect view of human flourishing? Can we really understand what it means for ourselves and our world by only thinking about economics? Russ Roberts joins us to talk about the ways in which economics can and cannot aide in our ability to pursue and achieve human flourishing.(Re-Mastered for Re-Issue.)Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Renowned theologian Michael F. Bird discusses Jesus, politics, and wise governance. Topics include Christian engagement with political authority, Paul's anti-imperial lean, and balancing Christian allegiance with earthly states. Insightful analysis on the relationship between divine authority and human institutions.

Randy England joins us to talk about his book, Free is Beautiful, a tremendous work on the foundations of libertarianism from a biblical and Church history perspective.(Re-Mastered for Re-Issue.)Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Doug Stuart sits down with liturgy scholar Drew Keane to delve into the ancient Christian practice of scripted worship through the lens of the Book of Common Prayer. As a co-editor of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer international edition and coauthor of How to Use the Book of Common Prayer, Keane brings a wealth of knowledge and a personal passion to the discussion.First they discuss liturgy and its role in the Church, examining the conservative nature of language in Christian liturgy, the theological depth found within traditional phrasing, and the transformative power of structured prayer. Keane shares his fascinating journey with the Book of Common Prayer, from his high school days to his extensive doctoral research, revealing the significance of this historical text in guiding public worship and personal devotions.Keane also sheds light on the historical context of the prayer book, dating back to the16th century, and how the 1552 edition brought new demands on laity participation, marked by a call to prayer via church bells.Listen in as Keane explains how the Book of Common Prayer is designed to help individuals humble themselves before God, engage with scripture, and pray expansively, following the scriptural mandates to pray even for one's enemies. We discuss the practical aspects of using the Book of Common Prayer for morning and evening prayer, enabling believers to read through the scriptures annually and expand their spiritual practices.Keane closes with heartfelt encouragement for listeners to discover the benefits of this ancient practice for themselves.Dive into the enduring legacy of the Book of Common Prayer and how it continues to shape faithful lives today. For those interested in exploring this topic further, How to Use the Book of Common Prayer is available through various retailers, including IVP's website and Amazon, and will be coming soon to Logos Bible software. Visit drewkeane.com to learn more about Drew Keane's work.Whether you're looking to understand the basics of liturgical worship or seeking to enrich your current prayer life, this episode offers a compelling guide to integrating the wisdom of The Book of Common Prayer into your spiritual journey.Additional ResourcesDrew Keane's website: https://www.drewkeane.com/ 1662 Book of Common Prayer: https://www.amazon.com/1662-Book-Common-Prayer-International-ebook/dp/B08CQVKPCR/ How to Use the Book of Common Prayer: https://www.amazon.com/How-Use-Book-Common-Prayer/dp/1514007479/Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com ★ Support this podcast ★