Unbelievable? Should Christians play politics? Michael F. Bird vs Stephen Wolfe hosted by Billy Hallowell
Mar 22, 2024
Michael F. Bird, New Testament scholar and Ridley College deputy principal, and Stephen Wolfe, conservative political thinker and author, debate faith and politics. They clash over Christian nationalism, ethnic identity, political equality, prudence in power, and how Christians should pursue the common good. Tense, thoughtful, and provocative conversation that stakes out very different visions for religion’s role in public life.
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Two Competing Definitions Of Christian Nationalism
- Stephen Wolfe defines Christian nationalism as a people who self-identify as Christian and order law and custom for their collective good.
- Michael F. Bird counters with a broader definition as making Christianity hegemonic, often by law.
Ancestry And Assimilation In Wolfe's View
- Stephen emphasises ancestral and cultural belonging as central to his conception of nationhood, allowing assimilation but valuing continuity.
- He argues nations naturally form around shared history and events rather than strict genetic tests.
Reaction To 'Amicable Ethnic Separation' Phrase
- Michael Bird reacts to Wolfe's line about 'an amicable ethnic separation' and says it sounded like mutual segregation or exporting minorities.
- He flagged that phrasing as troubling and asked for clarification on application in America.
