The New Evangelicals Podcast

Tim and April dive into the intriguing intersection of faith and politics, critiquing the idolatry of power among evangelical communities in response to Trump. They explore the disillusionment many feel as conservative values clash with the actions of political leaders. Conversations touch on the hypocrisy within religious narratives and the disconnect from traditional teachings. They also address the impact of political rhetoric on public perception and the importance of accountability in both religion and politics.

Jedediah Hartley, a former member of the International House of Prayer (IHOP), shares his harrowing journey and the dark realities of the community. He discusses the serious allegations against founder Mike Bickle, detailing personal experiences of abuse and manipulation. The conversation exposes the psychological impact of such a culture and the urgent need for accountability. Hartley emphasizes the importance of recognizing safe individuals for healing and the complexities faced by survivors in their quest for justice.

Janice Lagata, a creative artist and producer, joins the discussion about Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime performance and its cultural significance. They analyze the mixed reactions from Christian nationalists, revealing underlying racial biases. The conversation also celebrates the importance of Black representation in art and critiques American exceptionalism. Janice emphasizes the role of artistic expression as a powerful medium for cultural commentary and highlights the need for accountability in today's political landscape.

Dara Starr Tucker, a talented musician and radio host, shares her eye-opening journey of deconstructing her Pentecostal faith as a Black woman. She discusses the impact of Trumpism on evangelicalism and emphasizes the need for critical thinking amidst rising Christian nationalism. Dara reflects on navigating her racial identity within predominantly white church spaces and highlights the intersection of faith and politics. Together with Tim, they explore the importance of community organizing against contemporary threats to inclusivity.

In a dynamic discussion, the hosts tackle the unsettling abuse allegations against Mike Bickle and the pervasive issues within evangelical circles. They navigate the tricky terrain of Christian nationalism, examining its implications for politics and community dynamics. Personal stories illuminate the struggle for LGBTQ+ acceptance in faith settings. The podcast also critiques the troubling rhetoric of Donald Trump and the dangers of authoritarianism, advocating for inclusive coalitions to challenge divisive ideologies.

Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, an immigration lawyer, shares her compelling journey through the legal labyrinth of immigration. She discusses the emotional toll of family separations under strict policies and highlights the urgent need for humane immigration reform. Kate unpacks the complexities of asylum and the often-misunderstood realities of refugee challenges. She contrasts political rhetoric with the human stories behind the statistics, emphasizing the importance of empathy in shaping a just immigration system.

Tommy Preson Phillips, a pastor and musician from Tampa, and Scot McKnight, a seasoned professor and author, dive deep into the topic of faith deconstruction. They discuss how this journey often reflects a longing for deeper connections rather than a rejection of faith. Their insights tackle the complexities of Christian orthodoxy and the political influences reshaping modern evangelicalism. Emphasizing community support, they advocate for a more inclusive approach to Christianity, focusing on social justice and the marginalized.

Jessica Malaty Rivera, an infectious disease epidemiologist, joins the hosts to tackle critical issues within Christian culture. They discuss Bishop Budde's plea for mercy and the contrasting responses from right-wing figures. The conversation navigates the misinterpretation of scripture, toxic empathy, and the scapegoating of immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals. Rivera emphasizes the importance of accurate science communication amidst the spread of misinformation, particularly regarding public health and vaccine safety.

In this engaging discussion, human rights attorney Qasim Rashid, an expert in asylum and refugee cases, sheds light on alarming trends in U.S. immigration policies. He connects today’s mass deportations to historical injustices and warns against the complacency that enables fascism. The duo tackles the racial biases in public perception and advocates for a compassionate approach to undocumented individuals. They also delve into the moral responsibilities of faith communities amidst rising political propaganda, emphasizing empathy and humanitarian action.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Malcolm Foley, a historian and co-pastor, explores themes from his book 'Anti-Greed Gospel.' He delves into the troubling connection between greed and systemic racism, revealing how economic motivations intertwine with historical injustices like lynching. Malcolm challenges the myths of meritocracy, highlighting societal structures that perpetuate inequality. He calls for a reimagined approach in Christian communities, emphasizing collective responsibility and advocating for social justice in alignment with biblical teachings.