Mike Cosper, a journalist and podcaster at Christianity Today, dives into the unsettling parallels between modern evangelicalism and Hannah Arendt's views on totalitarianism in his latest book. He explores the rise of celebrity pastors and how cultural forces distort the church’s mission. Cosper discusses the challenges of Trump-era evangelicalism, the struggle for authentic faith, and the need for humility within the church. This thought-provoking conversation reflects on the evolving identity of Christians and the importance of inclusivity in a divided society.

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)In this captivating episode of Faithful Politics, political host Will Wright sits down with Dr. Joseph Laycock, an expert on new religious movements and American religious history, to explore the fascinating intersections of religion, culture, and politics. Together, they uncover surprising insights into how horror movies, exorcisms, and even the Satanic Temple have shaped modern religious practices and societal beliefs in unexpected ways.Dr. Laycock delves into the resurgence of exorcisms, revealing why they're more common now than at any time since the 1600s and how pop culture phenomena like The Exorcist redefined public perceptions of demons and rituals. The conversation also unpacks how films like The Omen and The Exorcist have influenced Christian theology and explores the role of the Satanic Temple in challenging traditional ideas of religious freedom, exposing the tension between pluralism and privilege.The discussion takes a deeper turn into the eerie parallels between the satanic panic of the 1980s and today’s conspiracy theories, such as QAnon, shedding light on how these narratives have real-world implications. Dr. Laycock also shares his thoughts on how religious myths, conspiracy theories, and cultural fears have evolved, and what they reveal about society’s search for meaning and identity.With insights from his extensive research, Dr. Laycock previews his upcoming projects, including a book on the lizard people conspiracy theory and its implications for politics and culture. If you’re intrigued by the unexpected ways religion, politics, and pop culture collide, this episode is a must-listen.Guest Bio:Dr. Joseph Laycock is an associate professor of religious studies at Texas State University, specializing in new religious movements, American religious history, and the intersection of religion and popular culture. He is known for his thought-provoking research on unconventional religious groups and has written extensively on topics such as the Satanic Temple, exorcism, and the influence of horror movies on religious beliefs. With a knack for exploring the extraordinary, Dr. Laycock brings a fresh perspective to understanding the ways faith, culture, and societyPlease consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)In this conversation, host Will Wright and guest William Nee engage with Mark Clifford, who discusses his book 'The Troublemaker' about Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy figure in Hong Kong. The discussion covers Lai's life, his journey from an immigrant to a billionaire entrepreneur, and his commitment to freedom and democracy in Hong Kong. The conversation also delves into the unique political landscape of Hong Kong, the vibrant media scene before the crackdown, and the impact of protests on the fight for democracy. The parallels between Jimmy Lai and other global pro-democracy figures, such as Alexei Navalny, are also explored. In this conversation, Mark L Clifford discusses the resilience and bravery of Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy figure in Hong Kong. He explores the Chinese government's fear of independent media and voices, the impact of Lai's arrest on the pro-democracy movement, and the evolution of Lai's spiritual journey, particularly his conversion to Catholicism. Clifford emphasizes the ingrained desire for freedom among the people of Hong Kong and the importance of media in advocating for democracy. He also reflects on the potential future of Lai's cause and the broader implications for political prisoners in Hong Kong.Buy the Book: The Troublemaker: How Jimmy Lai Became a Billionaire, Hong Kong's Greatest Dissident, and China's Most Feared Critic  https://a.co/d/7CJ2mXjGuest Bio:MARK L. CLIFFORD is president of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong, the former executive director of the Asia Business Council, and a former board member at Next Digital. He is editorial chair of the Asian Review of Books, and served as editor in chief of both English-language papers in Hong Kong, The Standard and the South China Morning Post. An honors history graduate of UC Berkeley and a Walter Bagehot Fellow at Columbia University, he holds a Ph.D. in Hong Kong history from the University of Hong Kong.Please consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)In this episode of Faithful Politics, co-host Josh Burtram dives into a profound discussion with A.G. Miller and Doug Strong, contributors to the book Awakening to Justice: Faithful Voices from the Abolitionist Past. The conversation weaves through the fascinating discovery of a nearly 200-year-old abolitionist diary, authored by David Ingram, a white missionary who served freed slaves in Jamaica. The episode highlights Ingram's seamless integration of evangelical faith with social justice, as he fervently advocated for the oppressed. A.G. and Doug also spotlight two other key voices from the book, Nancy Prince and James Bradley, whose personal faith journeys illuminate the courage of African Americans in the face of systemic injustice. Drawing parallels between historical abolitionist efforts and today's racial and political divides, the guests explore how the lessons of the past can guide believers to embrace justice and love in contemporary society. With timely reflections on the role of faith in addressing modern challenges, this episode invites listeners to consider what it truly means to live out one’s beliefs in a divided world.Awakening to Justice: Faithful Voices from the Abolitionist Past: https://a.co/d/iojIIBhPlease consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)Join Faithful Politics for a heartfelt and thought-provoking Thanksgiving special! Co-hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram dive into gratitude, politics, and family traditions in this reflective episode. They explore how to navigate challenging political conversations during the holidays, share personal stories of resilience, and discuss the importance of balancing truth and love in contentious debates. From discussing Josh's Weight Watchers journey and favorite Thanksgiving recipes to Will's touching reflections on his son's recovery, this episode is packed with relatable moments and meaningful insights. Whether you're preparing for a politically charged family dinner or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers practical advice and a celebration of community and connection. Don’t miss this blend of humor, wisdom, and authenticity!A message from your hosts:As we pause to celebrate Thanksgiving, we find ourselves overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every one of you. This podcast started as a dream—a space where faith and politics could be discussed with honesty, respect, and curiosity. Thanks to your support, it has grown into a community that exceeds anything we could have imagined.Your engagement, your thoughtful comments, and your willingness to wrestle with tough topics alongside us mean the world. Whether you've been with us since the beginning or just joined recently, you’ve made this journey so much richer. You’ve allowed us to bring diverse voices to the table and to tackle complex conversations with humility and grace.To those who take time out of busy schedules to listen, leave reviews, or share an episode with a friend—thank you. To those who challenge us to think deeper and push harder—thank you. And to those who pray for us, cheer us on, and remind us why this work matters—thank you.We are especially thankful for the ways this community reflects what makes this podcast so unique. In a world that often feels polarized, you’ve shown that respectful dialogue isn’t just possible; it’s transformative. You inspire us to keep going, to keep learning, and to keep holding space for the meaningful, and sometimes messy, conversations that matter.From our families to yoPlease consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)In this episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Professor Paul D. Miller, a Georgetown scholar and former CIA analyst, to explore Christian nationalism and its impact on faith, politics, and national identity. Miller critiques the belief that America is a Christian nation whose government should enforce that identity, arguing it contradicts the principles of both Christianity and democracy.The conversation examines Donald Trump’s influence on modern theology and how his rhetoric has reshaped the way many Christians perceive the relationship between their faith and the state. Drawing on his global expertise, Miller also discusses how Christian nationalism in nations like Russia impacts American foreign policy and national security, offering insights into just war theory and the ethical responsibilities of governments in conflicts such as those in Ukraine and Israel.Miller closes with a message of hope, reminding listeners of the enduring strength of democracy and the higher citizenship Christians hold in the Kingdom of Heaven. This episode invites reflection on living out faith in a politically charged world.The Religion of American Greatness What’s Wrong with Christian Nationalism: https://www.ivpress.com/the-religion-of-american-greatnessGuest Bio:Paul D. Miller (PhD, Georgetown University) is Professor of the Practice of International Affairs at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and co-chair of the Global Politics and Security concentration. He spent a decade in public service as director for Afghanistan and Pakistan on the National Security Council staff, an intelligence analyst for the Central Intelligence Agency, and a military intelligence officer in the US Army. Miller's writing has appeared in Foreign Affairs, The Dispatch, The Washington Post, Providence Magazine, Mere Orthodoxy, The Gospel Coalition, Foreign Policy, and elsewhere. He is the author of Just War and Ordered Liberty.Please consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)In this conversation, Will Wright and Josh Burtram engage with Bill Armaline, a professor of sociology and human rights expert, to explore the complex landscape of human rights. They discuss the origins, definitions, and instruments of human rights, the historical context of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the philosophical foundations that underpin these rights. The conversation also delves into the challenges of enforcing human rights on a global scale, particularly in relation to the role of the United Nations and the unique position of the United States in international law. In this conversation, Bill Armaline discusses the complexities of international law, particularly in relation to the Israel-Palestine conflict, the role of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and the implications of U.S. foreign policy. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal frameworks that govern these issues and the need for collective action through labor movements to address injustices. Armaline argues that the current geopolitical landscape is heavily influenced by economic interests and highlights the disconnect between the ruling classes and the general populace.Guest Bio:William Armaline is a Professor in the Department of Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences and founder of the Human Rights Minor Program and Human Rights Institute at San José State University.  His formal training and professional experience spans sociology, education, and human rights.  Dr. Armaline’s interests, applied work, and scholarly publications address social problems as they relate to political economy, politics, human rights, racism, critical pedagogy, inequality and youth, mass incarceration, policing, and drug policy reform.  His new book with co-author Davita Silfen Glasberg (Human Rights Praxis and the Struggle for Survival, Routledge Press, forthcoming on August 22, 2024) examines the threats to human rights and survival posed by global capitalism and an increasingly militarized and authoritarian world that takes the form of a global police state in scope and effect.Please consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)This episode of Faithful Politics features an insightful conversation with Dr. David Koyzis, a scholar affiliated with Global Scholars Canada and author of "Political Visions and Illusions" and "Citizenship Without Illusions." Koyzis discusses his background in political science, his journey from a politically conscious upbringing in the U.S. to a distinguished career in Canada, and the interplay between faith and politics. The episode explores significant themes such as the influence of life experiences on one's political ideology, the challenges of dual citizenship between one's earthly nation and the kingdom of God, and how believers can navigate political engagement without veering into idolatry. The discussion also covers Koyzis' take on proportional representation as a potential solution to issues within the American political system, and how faith can be a guide in political and personal life.Guest Bio: David T. Koyzis is affiliated with Global Scholars Canada and is engaged in an international academic ministry of writing, researching, lecturing, and conversing with readers of his books. He is the author of Political Visions and Illusions and We Answer to Another: Authority, Office, and the Image of God. He taught undergraduate political science for thirty years and lives with his family in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.Buy his book: https://www.ivpress.com/david-t-koyzisPlease consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)In this episode of Faithful Politics, investigative journalist Molly Redden from ProPublica joins hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram to explore the controversial plans behind Project 2025, a blueprint for Donald Trump’s potential second-term agenda. The discussion reveals how Russell Vought, a key MAGA strategist and former OMB Director, is shaping this initiative through his think tank, the Center for Renewing America. Redden highlights how the plan seeks to expand executive power, bypass Congress, and enforce sweeping budget cuts to diminish federal agencies like the EPA and IRS. The conversation also delves into Vought’s ideological alignment with Christian nationalism, a movement that aims to merge faith-based principles with federal governance, reshaping the country’s political and cultural landscape.Key topics include Vought’s proposed legal frameworks for deploying military force against domestic protests, the broader implications of replacing career civil servants with MAGA-aligned loyalists, and the feasibility of achieving such radical government overhauls. With discussions on Trump’s controversial cabinet picks, including figures like Matt Gaetz and RFK Jr., and the role of think tanks like the Heritage Foundation in drafting Project 2025, this episode provides a detailed analysis of the potential transformation of American democracy. Whether you’re curious about the future of the federal government, Christian nationalism’s influence, or the legal mechanisms shaping Trump’s plans, this conversation offers a crucial look into the strategies behind a possible second Trump administration.Put Them in Trauma”: Inside a Key MAGA Leader’s Plans for a New Trump Agenda: https://www.propublica.org/article/video-donald-trump-russ-vought-center-renewing-america-magaGuest Bio:Molly Redden is a reporter for ProPublica covering national politics and elections. She was previously a senior reporter on the national team at HuffPost, where she Please consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)In this podcast episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram engage in a rich conversation with Dr. Samuel Perry, a leading expert on conservative Christianity and American politics. The discussion focuses on the 2024 election results, with Perry providing an analysis of the unexpected outcomes and voter behavior. He emphasizes that economic concerns, rather than ideological shifts, drove many voters' decisions. Perry notes that while some believe rhetoric like Trump's may just be for show, it can have significant societal impacts, including normalizing divisive language and authoritarian tendencies.They explore how religious identity has shifted in America, highlighting that evangelical support for Trump remained steady, while shifts were seen among Catholic and other religious voters. Perry also touches on how Christian nationalism and group identity influence political stances and willingness to support authoritarian measures.The episode concludes with Perry discussing his new book, Religion for Realists, which argues that understanding religion through a scientific lens can illuminate how beliefs, identity, and societal norms interact. He explains that current global and domestic leaders already utilize religious identity as a tool for power, making this understanding even more crucial today. The show wraps up with thoughts on maintaining hope and community engagement amid political and societal challenges.Guest Bio:An award-winning scholar and teacher, Dr. Perry is among the nation's leading experts on conservative Christianity and American politics, race, families, and sexual behavior. He has been recognized as among the top sociologists in the world in terms of research productivity and impact.Along with well over 100 peer-reviewed articles published in leading academic journals, Dr. Perry is also the author or co-author of five books, including Growing God's Family (NYU, 2017), Addicted to Lust (Oxford, 2019), Taking America Back for God (Oxford, 2020, with Andrew Whitehead), and The Flag and the Cross (Oxford, 2022, with Philip Gorski). His most recent book is entitled Religion for Realists: Why We All Need the Scientific Study of Religion (Oxford, 2024).Dr. Perry is also a Please consider a donation, it would help a lot! https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast "The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations Support the showPlease Help Support the showhttps://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcastTo learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/