Good Faith

How should Christians engage with political power in a divided world?   Contributor Andy Crouch joins Curtis Chang to trace a path from the courage of the early believers under Caesar to today’s crisis-driven politics and the ruling class. Together, they dive into the rise of emergency powers, growing contempt, and the breakdown of civil discourse—and offer a hopeful vision for how the Fruit of the Spirit can reshape both Christian posture and a public life rooted in love, gentleness, and faithfulness.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Explaining The Land of Israel Under Roman Rule Matthew 22:21 - "Render therefore unto Caesar..." (multiple versions and explanation) Explaining The Majesty of Herod’s Temple Augustus Caesar and the the title Divi filius, “son of a god” (audio) The Holy Roman Empire: The Rise of Medieval Europe (video) Tish Harrison Warren’s Prayer in the Night: For Those Who Work or Watch or Weep Fact sheet about PEPFAR Wendell Berry’s The Hidden Wound Wendell Berry’s ‘The Hidden Wound’ at Fifty (article from 2020) Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit (multiple versions and explanation)     More from Andy Crouch: Interact with Andy’s website Check out Andy’s work at Praxis Read Andy’s book: The Life We're Looking For Read Andy’s book: The Tech-Wise Family     Good Faith Live “Watch Party” Russell Moore, David French, & Curtis Chang: Trump's First 100 Days   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Can Literary Wisdom Counter Despair and Deepen Your Faith? In this episode of Good Faith Presents: Reading to Make Sense of the World, Curtis Chang and author-professor Jessica Hooten Wilson explore the spiritual insights of Flannery O’Connor’s prayer journal. They examine how O’Connor’s raw honesty, humility, and startling imagery confront the modern obsession with self and offer a radical vision of divine grace. Jessica helps listeners see why O’Connor’s work is more than provocative—it’s prophetic. Resources or references mentioned in this episode: Flannery O’Connor at 100 Excerpts from Flannery O'Connor's journal (printed in The New Yorker) Flannery O’Connor’s A Prayer Journal Jessica Hooten wilson’s Flannery O'Connor's Why Do the Heathen Rage?: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at a Work in Progress A Life in Psychiatry and Literature: (an interview with Robert Coles) Good Faith episode featuring Amy Low (Facing Cancer with Humor and Hope) Good Faith episode featuring Nancy French (Ghosted: an American Story) What Is Kafkaesque? - The 'Philosophy' of Franz Kafka (video explainer) More From Jessica Hooten Wilson: Jessica Hooten Wilson's website Explore Jessica’s books HERE Read articles and Essay by Jessica HERE Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Douglas McKelvey, the author of the 'Every Moment Holy' series, shares his passion for finding the sacred in everyday tasks. He discusses how mundane activities like folding laundry can become spiritual practices, inviting listeners to embrace a deeper rhythm of life. With Easter approaching, he emphasizes the role of liturgical prayers in transforming daily routines into significant encounters with the divine. Douglas also reflects on how liturgy can navigate modern distractions, reinforcing community bonds and fostering a meaningful connection to faith.

Join Jared Patrick Boyd, a pastor and founding director of the Order of Common Life, as he discusses the revival of ancient monastic practices for modern believers. He emphasizes the need for intentional community and contemplative rhythms to foster spiritual growth. Boyd explores how these practices can address the current crises in the church and provide a path for renewal. He also examines the enriching role of monasticism in overcoming spiritual isolation, encouraging listeners to embrace these traditions for deeper faith.

Dana Wichterman, a former USAID and Commerce development expert, and Bill Wichterman, a former special assistant to President George W. Bush, dive into the impact of U.S. foreign aid cuts on global poverty. They discuss the urgent need for faith-driven impact investing to fill these gaps. The duo highlights the power of individual stewardship and generosity, showcasing how for-profit businesses like Masaka Farms are transforming lives. Listeners are challenged to rethink traditional views on retirement, emphasizing purposeful living through ethical investments and service.

D.T. Slothman, producer and director of content for Redeeming Babel, engages with Curtis Chang as they tackle burning questions about faith in today’s world. They discuss finding community post-deconstruction and the role of the church amidst political divides. Curtis shares thoughts on the impact of AI in sermon prep and explores life after death in the new heavens and new earth. Music also plays a key role, with Curtis revealing his top five artists, adding a personal touch to the insightful dialogue.

How can we stay grounded in an anxious political climate?   Leadership anxiety expert Steve Cuss joins the Good Faith Podcast to help us navigate Trump’s turbulent second term without becoming overwhelmed. We explore how chronic anxiety spreads through reactivity, why political leaders and their followers often amplify fear through straw man arguments, and how we can break free from the cycle. Drawing from his experience as a trauma chaplain and beyond, Steve shares practical tools for maintaining spiritual and emotional balance. If political division is making your mind race, heart pound, or body tense, Steve offers wisdom and encouragement to help you find calm and clarity in the chaos.   Send written questions or voice memos for “Ask Curtis” episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Resources or references mentioned in this episode: Frederick Buechner’s Whistling in the Dark The Evangelical vote in 2024 The Los Angeles Times: Is Donald Trump a new King David? “Remember the Lord” from Proverbs 3:6-16 GNT Jacob’s assurance from Genesis 28 NLT  Jesus’ trial before Pilate John 18:28-40 NLT Paul’s trials before Festus and Felix Acts 24-26 NLT Jesus calls Herod a “fox” Luke 13:31-32 NLT Freedom to love others Galatians 5:13 More about Gregory Boyle More From Steve Cuss: Steve’s podcast Being Human Steve’s book Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs Steve’s book The Expectation Gap: The Tiny, Vast Space between Our Beliefs and Experience of God Steve’s website (free access to the Life Giving List and Conscious List of Relationships) Register for the Illuminate Arts & Faith Conference   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

In this engaging discussion, David French, a founding friend of the podcast and a keen political analyst, explores how Trump's foreign policy is redefining America’s global presence. He emphasizes the shift from traditional support for liberal democracies towards a more authoritarian stance. Key topics include dwindling U.S. backing for Ukraine, strained alliances, and how these dynamics reflect on national character. David also addresses the importance of respectful political conversations among Christians and how to foster community despite division. Don't miss his insights on finding hope in challenging times!

Everyone wants love and community in a fractured world. What happens when they are lost?   Host Curtis Chang and Pete Wehner, a columnist for The Atlantic and former White House staffer, explore the deep sense of political, cultural, and spiritual exile felt by many Americans. Reflecting on Pete’s journey from shaping policy during 9/11 to breaking from the Republican Party over Donald Trump, they discuss the challenges of shifting identities while staying true to one’s convictions. Drawing from the Psalms, cognitive psychology, and Christian history, they offer a vision for engaging culture and finding new purpose amid political disillusionment and feelings of living in exile, even in the place you call home.   This episode revisits a past conversation to examine cognitive dissonance and the pursuit of truth in times of uncertainty.   Send written questions or voice memos for “Ask Curtis” episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org   Get a 25% discount when you buy The Art of Disagreeing by Gavin Ortland at thegoodbook.com with code: GOODFAITH   Resources From This Episode: Psalm 126 (New Living Translation) Winston Churchill’s Painting as a Pastime A Short History Of The Dardanelles Campaign The GOP and the Birther Trap (article) by Pete Wehner Jonathan Haidt’s The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion Jonathan Rauch’s The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth Jeremiah 29 (New Living Translation) Makoto Fujimura’s Culture Care: Reconnecting with Beauty for Our Common Life  Mark Labberton’s talk: The Deep Work of a New Creation Mark Labberton’s talk: Beauty in Exile Rodney Stark (books) Russell Moore clip: “Jesus is a hood ornament” 2 Corinthians 5 New Living Translation   More From Pete Wehner: Read Peter Wehner’s latest article: MAGA Has Found a New Model Peter Wehner’s The Atlantic opinion pieces Peter Wehner at The Trinity Forum Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Explore the power of three reflective questions that can transform hope and gratitude in worship. Dive into personal campfire stories that reveal how individuals strengthen bonds within their families and communities. Discover the joys and challenges of fostering deep connections in brief chapel settings. This conversation highlights the essence of storytelling in creating shared experiences and meaning in everyday life.