Good Faith

Join Dr. Hahrie Han, a political scientist at Johns Hopkins and Director of the SNF Agora Institute, as she discusses how local churches can bridge racial and political divides. Drawing from her research on a Cincinnati mega church, she reveals the transformative power of cross-racial relationships within faith communities. Dr. Han emphasizes engaging with challenging questions of race and politics directly, fostering deeper connections and shared experiences that unite diverse groups. Discover actionable insights to promote healing and community through church initiatives.

In this discussion, David French, a prominent commentator on current events, dives into the most shocking stories of summer 2024. He analyzes Ukraine's bold moves against Russia, the failed assassination attempt on Trump, and Biden's surprising exit from the presidential race. French also reflects on the emotional aspects of astronauts stranded in space and the unity sparked by Steph Curry's Olympic heroics. The conversation navigates through themes of courage, leadership, and the intricate dance of politics, all while emphasizing a hopeful outlook amidst chaos.

Join acclaimed musicians Matt Maher, Sandra McCracken, Jon Guerra, and Grammy-winner Dee Wilson, alongside poet Kate Bluett and worship leader Isaac Wardell. They dive into how new worship songs can bridge political divides in churches. Discover the creative process behind impactful tracks like 'The Kingdom of Jesus' and 'The Lord Will Have His Way.' The group emphasizes music as a healing tool, expressing hope and fostering unity during turbulent times. Get inspired by their shared mission to create inclusive worship that resonates with contemporary challenges.

Rev. Summer Joy Gross, an author and spiritual director specializing in Attachment Theory, joins the discussion to illuminate the intersection of trauma and spiritual growth. She explores how broken attachments to God can exacerbate anxieties related to current events. Listeners will learn practical spiritual practices like journaling and the Immanuel approach to enhance faith during emotional struggles. Rev. Gross emphasizes the importance of honest communication with the divine and offers strategies for cultivating secure attachments in families.

Caleb Campbell, an evangelical pastor and author, takes us on a riveting journey from being a neo-Nazi to advocating for love and understanding among Christian Nationalists. He discusses the complex relationship between belief and belonging, illustrating how faith communities can drive transformation. Caleb and Curtis dive into the challenges pastors face navigating political landscapes, emphasizing the need for compassionate dialogue rather than division. They inspire listeners to engage with those holding different views, fostering hope in a polarized world.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Jessica Hooten Wilson, an award-winning author and the Fletcher Jones Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University, explores the decline of deep reading and its spiritual implications. She advocates for re-engaging with books as a means to cultivate contemplation and humility. The conversation highlights how deep reading nurtures empathy, enriches relationships, and fosters personal growth. Wilson also emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from distractions to enhance daily reflection and nurture a love for literature.

Former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, Pete Wehner, discusses self-reflection amidst political turmoil, focusing on Trump's assassination attempt and Biden's resilience. They explore moral reflection, leadership qualities, and the importance of inner struggles and family influence in shaping individuals.

Good Faith contributor Andy Crouch and host Curtis Chang discuss the need for a Worship Music Reformation in modern Christianity. They touch on limited singing abilities, the performance-style of worship leaders, and the commercial influence of Contemporary Christian Music. Practical tips for initiating change are offered, emphasizing the importance of engaging with God through music on a personal level.

Host Curtis Chang goes back to school and sits down with Geneva College President Dr. Calvin Troup and student Mattigan Burleigh to explore the college's long-standing political coursework, dating back to 1881. They delve into how, in an era fraught with political anxiety, the culture of niceness has eroded an authentic engagement across differences. Listen and learn how to serve your communities by focusing on Jesus as the central norm in our common life.   Learn more about Geneva College's Political Science program here   Donate to Redeeming Babel HERE   Bring The After Party course to your church or small group!   

Author Tim Alberta and host Curtis Chang discuss how some use the message of the cross as a political weapon, pushing away truth-seeking non-believers. They share strategies for staying focused on the gospel amid distorted political culture in the church.