

The Bad Roman
Craig Harguess
Are you a Christian who feels disillusioned by politics?
Do you see political systems—whether democratic, authoritarian, or otherwise—promising change but often leaving you unfulfilled? As followers of Christ, our calling isn’t tied to any earthly power; it’s to live like Jesus, no matter the political landscape.
On this podcast, we explore what it means to set aside man-made allegiances—be they national, partisan, or ideological—and instead take up the Cross. Host Craig Harguess, a former neoconservative Southern Baptist Republican turned pacifist and Christian Voluntaryist, delves into the complex relationship between faith and political power. Through conversations with everyday Christians, church leaders, and even non-Christians, we challenge the ways politics can distract us from God’s work. True change starts where we are—because when we live like Christ, the world around us shifts, regardless of who holds power.
New episodes release bi-weekly.
Learn more at www.thebadroman.com.
Do you see political systems—whether democratic, authoritarian, or otherwise—promising change but often leaving you unfulfilled? As followers of Christ, our calling isn’t tied to any earthly power; it’s to live like Jesus, no matter the political landscape.
On this podcast, we explore what it means to set aside man-made allegiances—be they national, partisan, or ideological—and instead take up the Cross. Host Craig Harguess, a former neoconservative Southern Baptist Republican turned pacifist and Christian Voluntaryist, delves into the complex relationship between faith and political power. Through conversations with everyday Christians, church leaders, and even non-Christians, we challenge the ways politics can distract us from God’s work. True change starts where we are—because when we live like Christ, the world around us shifts, regardless of who holds power.
New episodes release bi-weekly.
Learn more at www.thebadroman.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 8min
Jesus & Bombs? Questioning War Through Song with Jordan Smart
Musician Jordan Smart shares his journey from a religious household in Ohio to becoming a touring artist. He discusses his disillusionment with the church, his connection to music, and how punk rock influenced his worldview. The conversation centers on his song "Who Would Jesus Bomb?", inspired by frustrations with religious propaganda. Jordan reflects on how twisted religious messages inspired the song and talks about his project, Songs Not Bombs, raising funds for Palestinian children. This episode dives into war, politics, faith, and humanity, making it a must-listen for those interested in these critical issues.
Connect with Jordan Smart:
Jordan Smart Music on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jordansmartmusic]
Songs Not Bombs on Bandcamp - All Proceeds Go to Palestine [https://songsnotbombs.bandcamp.com]
Songs Not Bombs on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/songs.not.bombs/]
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-114
TWO WAYS TO SUPPORT THE PROJECT: TASTE IT BAD ROMAN SALSA or HELP GROW THE BAG thebadroman.com/donate
Starting Points and Key Moments:
00:45 Jordan's Background
02:00 Music as a Form of Protest
07:27 The Power of Music
09:40 Christianity and War
11:59 Generational Perspectives
16:45 Personal and Political Pushback to Jordan’s Song “Who Would Jesus Bomb?”
20:51 Echo Chambers and Authenticity
24:26 The Role of the Military
30:43 Compassion and Humanity
34:59 Challenging Beliefs
39:40 Personal Journeys
43:17 The Influence of Social Media
47:27 Interconnected Issues
52:19 Political Theater
57:52 Blonde Hair and Blue Eyes: Jesus and Race
1:03:21 Final Thoughts
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

Jul 18, 2024 • 1h 2min
From Mormon LDS to Freedom in Christ: Unveiling Lies in Medicine, Government, and Religion with Claire Dalton
Craig speaks with Claire Dalton, host of the Clarity podcast where she interviews members of The Chruch of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints who have left the Mormon church in their pursuit to follow Christ at a greater capacity. In the conversation, Claire shares her journey of leaving the LDS Church, her battle with chronic Lyme disease, and her views on government and institutional corruption.
Craig and Claire also discuss misconceptions about Mormonism, particularly polygamy, and the experiences of those who leave the LDS Church to follow Christ. The conversation also explores the influence of government in various sectors and the concept of statism as inherently satanic.
Emphasizing the message "No King but Christ," they discuss prioritizing Christ over state and institutional allegiances and building authentic Christian communities. This episode offers insights into faith, health, and societal structures, encouraging listeners to question and explore their beliefs.
TWO WAYS TO SUPPORT THE PROJECT: TASTE IT BAD ROMAN SALSA or HELP GROW THE BAG thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Claire Dalton:
The Clarity Podcast on YouTube
Claire Dalton's website
Follow Claire on social media: Facebook @forgedinhisfire and Instagram @forgedinhisfire
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-113
Starting Points and Key Moments:
(1:04) Guest Introduction
(0:22) Entanglement of Churches with the State
(1:41) Claire's Personal Journey
(5:28) Misconceptions about Mormonism
(26:35) The Impact of Chronic Illness
(30:18) Critique of the Medical System
(53:04) Statism and Its Influence
(59:20) Closing Remarks
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

Jul 4, 2024 • 1h 7min
Freedom & Independence in Christ with Mike Maharrey
Craig welcomes back Mike Maharrey for an engaging discussion on the intersection of Christianity, government, and economics. Ever wondered how inflation and taxation really impact your daily life? Mike breaks it down, tracing the effects of monetary policy from the Great Recession to today.
They dive into how the Federal Reserve’s actions, like printing money and keeping interest rates low, have led to economic issues that both major political parties support. They also tackle tariffs, especially those from the Trump era, explaining how they end up being a tax on consumers.
But it’s not just about economics. Craig and Mike explore the importance of resisting unconstitutional laws and the role of Christians in standing up for their beliefs. In this Fourth of July episode, they reflect on what true independence means beyond the fireworks and barbecues.
This episode is a mix of history, economics, and moral questioning, offering a thought-provoking look at how government policies and personal faith intersect. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will make you rethink your views on government and faith.
SUPPORT THE PROJECT: BAD ROMAN SALSA or thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Mike Maharrey:
Money Metals Podcast
Personal website and Godarchy podcast
10th Amendment Center
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-112
Starting Points and Key Moments:
(00:01:06) Welcoming Back Mike Maharrey
(00:06:20) Independence Day and Election Year
(00:08:17) Monetary Policy and Inflation
(00:13:09) Economic Misconceptions
(00:19:46) Historical Context of Monetary Policy
(00:23:50) Tariffs and Their Impact
(00:31:58) Gun Control Policies
(00:35:28) The 10th Amendment and State vs. Federal Law
(00:39:34) Resistance to Government Overreach
(00:46:17) COVID19 and Church Shutdowns
(00:50:14) Immigration and Christian Perspective
(00:55:52) Independence Day Reflections
(01:01:11) Mike Maharrey's Projects and Resources
(01:04:42) Supporting the Bad Roman Project
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

Jun 20, 2024 • 58min
God vs MAGA: Jesus & the Patriots with Josh Nichols
Ever wonder what happens when political figures start getting treated like religious icons? Well, buckle up, because singer-songwriter Josh Nichols is here to chat about just that. We're diving into the unsettling trend of comparing Donald Trump to Jesus, especially when election season heats up on social media. These comparisons aren't just off—they're seriously problematic. Josh's powerful song "God vs MAGA" takes a stand against this dangerous idolization of political figures, shedding light on the toxic rhetoric that equates Trump with Christ. We’ll explore how these false comparisons mess with our faith and distract us from the true essence of Jesus' teachings.
American nationalism often disguises itself as Christianity, but what’s the spiritual fallout? We're breaking down the troubling habit of mixing faith with national pride, and how this can turn patriotism into a form of idolatry. Josh’s song "God vs MAGA" calls out the manipulation of religious beliefs by political players, showing how these actions can lead to a misguided faith in political leaders. We also draw some interesting parallels between Trump's portrayal and the biblical figure Barabbas, highlighting the need to find truth amid all the political noise.
We'll talk about the clash between personal rights and biblical principles of humility and selflessness, digging into the theological implications and contrasting earthly citizenship with eternal values. Josh’s powerful lyrics, including the line "God doesn't want to make America great again," remind us that our loyalty should be to God's kingdom, not a nation.
Critical thinking and independent thought are key to navigating the noise of corporate media and political propaganda. We discuss the liberating power of letting go and having faith, and how critical thinking helps us form confident, independent opinions. From addressing the idolatry of political beliefs to calling out the hypocrisy within pro-life stances, this episode urges us to elevate our faith above nationalism and strive for greatness rooted in God's infinite and unconditional love, not a nation’s past.
We'll wrap up with personal reflections and broader societal critiques, highlighting the tension between national identity and spiritual integrity. Tune in for this compelling conversation that underscores the ultimate greatness found in God's kingdom and His unconditional love.
SUPPORT THE PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Josh Nichols:
Tik Tok
Spotify
Apple Music
Personal Instagram
Josh's Band - More Than This Instagram
Tidal
YouTube
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-111
Starting Points & Key Moments:
00:02:02 God vs MAGA
00:09:37 Jesus, Nationalism, and Idolatry
00:22:52 Navigating Critical Thinking in Society
00:32:38 America and Christianity
00:42:49 American Hypocrisy and Eternal Greatness
00:51:42 Greatness in God and Music
01:02:15 Faith in Modern Society
01:12:03 Balancing Faith and Personal Beliefs
01:22:48 Future of Christianity in America
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

Jun 6, 2024 • 1h 4min
Jesus on the Cross Explained: Empire and Atonement with Reverend Caleb J. Lines
Was Jesus crucified for challenging the empire or for atoning for humanity's sins? Joined by Reverend Caleb Lines this episode tackles age-old theological questions through a fresh perspective. Caleb, who hails from a progressive Christian background, shares insights from his compelling sermon, "Jesus was crucified for standing up to empire and not to atone for the sins of humanity." Our conversation digs deep into the historical and political contexts surrounding Jesus' crucifixion, urging listeners to reconsider traditional interpretations.
We then move on to dissect the concept of atonement as presented in the New Testament, revealing the contrasting depictions of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels and John. Does the New Testament present a unified view, or are there significant theological discrepancies? Caleb and Craig challenge the later development of penal substitutionary atonement and bring to light the often-overlooked complexities within the New Testament. This segment is sure to provoke thought and aims to foster a nuanced understanding of Jesus' messages and their implications for Christian faith and practice today.
Finally, we broach the subject of progressive Christianity, emphasizing its roots in Jesus' teachings on peace, justice, and inclusivity. Caleb helps us navigate the delicate balance of faith and politics, touching on modern humanitarian crises and the role of pastors in guiding their congregations through these challenges. We also explore the concept of Christian anarchy and if voluntary charity could potentially solve societal issues better than government intervention. This episode is for anyone interested in the intersections of faith, politics, and social justice.
SUPPORT THE PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Reverend Caleb Lines:
progressivechristianity.org
University Christian Church in San Diego website and Facebook
Awakened: A 52-Week Progressive Christian Devotional
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-110
Starting points & Key Moments:
01:07 Who is Reverend Caleb Lines
07:15 Jesus' Subversive Message
15:02 Understanding Atonement in the New Testament
22:10 Jesus as a Political Figure
27:37 Interpretations of Scripture and God
32:45 The Problem of Biblical Literalism
38:55 Progressive Christianity Defined Through Conversation
44:25 Tackling Misconceptions about Progressive Christianity
49:39 Christian Anarchy vs Government Accountability
54:45 The Call to Social Justice
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

May 23, 2024 • 55min
Divine Renegade: Creed, Power, Living in Christian Anarchy with the Royal Priest
Join host Craig on a soul-stirring quest as he delves into the unconventional world of Christians who reject political affiliation with the enigmatic Royal Priest in this eye-opening episode. With more than 20 years of experience in ministry, the Royal Priest—author and host of numerous podcasts—cuts through conventional Christian narratives, offering insights that beckon the spiritually curious to reconsider their understanding of faith and authority.
This episode is a pivotal listen for anyone on the cusp of a spiritual revelation, eager to reconcile the principles of divine order with earthly rule. The pair navigates their political evolutions with the state to a Christ-focused life, they challenge longstanding beliefs within the church and invite you to redefine how your political expression undermines your devotion to Jesus Himself.
The Royal Priest's transformation from an established clergyman to a wandering seeker of truth sets a fascinating stage for this discussion. The dialogue ventures into the friction between comfortable religious doctrines and the unsettling reality of Jesus’s message. With the anticipated "great jubilation" on the horizon, are you prepared for the change it promises?
Take an introspective look at the role Christians should play in the political arena and ponder our true allegiance—is it to God, to the state, or to a blend of both? As the conversation draws to a close, the focus shifts to law enforcement and its congruence with divine justice. Craig's transformation reflects a broader societal inquiry. For law enforcement officers who practice faith, this episode serves as a summons to gauge your actions against the inflexible standard of divine righteousness.
Listeners, brace yourselves to confront these probing inquiries head-on. This episode is an active call to engage, to shake the soul, and to join a community determined to align their terrestrial journey with Christ's teachings. It's an invitation to assess the structures of governance against the steadfast scale of divine righteousness.
Don't let this transformative conversation pass you by—it's poised to awaken, challenge, and ignite your spirit.
SUPPORT THE PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with the Royal Priest:
- Listen to his Podcasts
- Explore his books
- Visit his website: www.theroyalpriest.com
- Explore his graphic design work: www.bjgraphicsonline.com
- Listen to his music: www.nastyonthebeats.com
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-109
Starting points:
00:57 Exploring Christian Anarchy
09:06 Anarchy vs. Christ
13:39 Government, Righteousness, and Christian Growth
23:49 Spreading the Message
36:10 Reevaluating Views on Law Enforcement
39:11 Questioning the Righteousness of Law Enforcement
46:41 Critiquing Justice and Proclaiming Righteousness
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

May 9, 2024 • 1h 7min
Christian Farmer's Ethics vs. Industrial Farming with Michael of Copperhead Hill Farms
Have you ever considered the profound impact your food choices have on your health, the environment, and the local economy? Michael from Copperhead Hill Farms is on the show to reveal the significance of supporting local agriculture and the empowerment that comes with food sovereignty. The conversation spans Michael's shift from suburban living to the heart of agrarian self-sufficiency, spurred by the unexpected gift of two pigs. Infused with the ethos of community connection and the simplicity of barter trade, this episode isn't just about farming—it's a narrative about reshaping consumption habits and rediscovering the nourishment that comes from the ground up.
We've all felt the pinch of regulations and red tape, but have you considered how it affects the tomato on your plate or the salsa in your jar? Our discussion takes a turn toward the limitations faced by those who dare to venture into local food production. It's a candid look at the struggles to maintain integrity and quality in our food systems, punctuated by heartening tales of community resilience and the practical magic of trading eggs for tomatoes. Join us as we challenge the status quo of convenience and champion a return to authentic, locally-sourced sustenance.
Our journey wraps up with a look at the significance behind the rebranding of Copperhead Hill Farms and how it reflects the rebellious spirit akin to moonshiners of yore. Michael and I share our personal transformations, from ideology shifts to the empowering embrace of Christian pacifism and community-focused living. The episode is a rallying cry for listeners to find strength in like-minded communities and take a firm stance in their beliefs. Saddle up for an episode that promises to ignite your spirit of independence and leave you pondering the true cost of the food that graces your table.
SUPPORT THE PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Michael and Copperhead Hill Farms:
Copperhead Hill Farms Website
Copperhead Hill Farms Instagram
Copperhead Hill Farms Facebook
Episode Starting Points:
02:12 Local Farming and Community Autonomy
07:57 Barter-Based Economy and Legal Challenges
18:23 Importance of Local Food Sources
25:44 Challenges and Solutions for Local Farmers
33:13 Autonomy and State Control
43:02 Significance of Farm Name Change
58:49 Personal Ideological Transition
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-108
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
**please excuse our host's audio we had some technical challenges!!**

Apr 25, 2024 • 45min
Jesus & Acid: Psychedelics and Mystic Medicine
Join Craig and Ivan Soto on The Bad Roman Podcast as they explore the connection between Christianity, anarchy, and psychedelics. In this episode, Ivan discusses his transformative experiences with these substances and their significant impact on his spiritual journey.
The conversation tackles the government's control over these plants, their historical ties to witchcraft, and the need for open discussions within the Christian community about the potential therapeutic and spiritual benefits of psychedelics.
Don't miss this insightful episode as we delve into the potential of psychedelics as a valid path to the divine and challenge traditional sources of spiritual knowledge.
SUPPORT THE PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Ivan:
Facebook
Instagram
Starting Points & Key Moments:
01:02 Introduction: Exploring Psychedelics and Christianity
02:00 The Double-Edged Sword of Psychedelics
06:00 Stigmas Surrounding Psychedelics
09:16 Exploring Psychedelics and Spirituality
11:00 Government Regulations and Psychedelics
12:00 The Christian Perspective on Psychedelics
13:01 Debunking Misconceptions About Witchcraft
17:00 Psychedelics as Tools for Spiritual Insight
20:00 The Cultural Significance of Psychedelics
22:54 The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics
27:45 Importance of Set and Setting in Psychedelic Use
30:00 Using Psychedelics for Personal Growth
32:26 The Dark Side of Psychedelics: Bad Trips
34:00 Recreational vs Therapeutic Use of Psychedelics
35:00 Psychedelics for Depression and Grief
35:09 Spiritual Enlightenment: Scripture vs Psychedelics
40:00 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Guiding Truth
43:00 Beyond the Bible: Other Sources of Divine Inspiration
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-107
For more on The Bad Roman Project:
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

Apr 11, 2024 • 1h 7min
Jesus Has No Flag with Against All Flags Podcast Team
The Against All Flags podcast team underscore the groundbreaking proclamation of 'No King but Christ' and join us on an exploration of the intriguing intersection of faith and state.
Tune in for a captivating conversation that not only reveals the early church's commitment to nonviolence, but also delves into personal experiences of life beyond politics, and reaffirms Jesus' supreme reign over all earthly powers. Prepare to be engrossed in a thought-provoking narrative that dares to challenge traditional loyalties and sparks a deeper, more peaceful understanding of faith.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST AND PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with our guests:
Follow their Podcast: Against All Flags
Nathan
Instagram: @against_all_flags_pod
Anthony
Instagrams: @against_all_flags_boomer
@beltfed_bandit
Wyatt
@wyatt_j_d_
Starting Points & Key Moments:
01:02 Christian Anarchy Explained (11 Minutes)
11:29 Christian Anarchy and Faith in Christ (5 Minutes)
16:04 King Jesus and AntiState Christianity (12 Minutes)
28:27 Corruption and Inequality in Government (4 Minutes)
32:33 Early Christian Anarchy and Theology (6 Minutes)
38:52 Early Church Influence on Modern Christianity (6 Minutes)
44:37 Standing vs. Sitting for National Anthem (9 Minutes)
53:38 Christian Podcast Promoting AntiFlag Message (14 Minutes)
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-106
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com

Apr 4, 2024 • 1h 5min
Bible Translations: Is the Greek Right? with Duncan Palmer
Join Craig and theologian Duncan Kerry Palmer in a riveting exploration of how ancient Greek nuances reshape our understanding of biblical texts. This episode delves into the significant impact of translations, particularly words like 'exousia' and 'hupotaso', which challenge traditional interpretations of authority and compliance within Christianity.
Through Palmer's insightful anecdotes from theological debates, we uncover the profound implications of these linguistic subtleties on interpretations of key scriptures such as Romans 13 and Acts 5:29. This discussion not only illuminates the complex relationship between Christianity and state authority but also invites listeners to reevaluate their perspectives on governance and societal roles in light of scripture.
As we unravel the intriguing concept of translation conspiracies, the episode encourages a critical examination of how language influences our understanding of divine mandates, urging a thoughtful reconsideration of passages like "render unto Caesar."
Tune in to this enlightening episode for a transformative journey through faith, language, and politics, challenging you to rethink your views on biblical authority and alignment.
Key Moments:
(01:02) Christian-State Relationships
(04:04) Scripture Through Translation
(05:02) Modern-Day Pharisees and Wisdom
(07:07) Connotation in Translation
(15:30) Greek Words in Scripture
(28:43) Biblical Terminology
(42:56) God's Government Through His Assembly
(54:16) Translation Conspiracies in Christianity
(10:02) Lost in Translation
(21:24) Romans 13 and Governing Authorities
(24:14) Christianity and Politics
(36:43) Untranslated Greek Words in the Bible
(42:56) Government, Church, and Satan's Kingdom
(47:06) Power and Authority of Christ
(53:03) Frustration With Christian Statism
(01:00:59) Explore Duncan’s Work
SUPPORT THE PODCAST AND PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Duncan Cary Palmer:
Social Community: Peakd.com
Twitter/X: @NewEarthHeaven
Blog: Hive Blog
Duncan’s email: duncan@sharefreely.com
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-105
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com