Ep. 66 / Another King: Why Religious Liberty Shapes Human Rights with Paul Marshall (Part 2)

Pressure is rising on believers worldwide, but the story is bigger than any single faith. In this episode we continue our conversation with Dr. Paul Marshall, a political theorist from Baylor University, who helps us trace threats to religious liberty all around the world. From a resurgent China tightening control, to Russia squeezing non-Orthodox churches, and jihadist networks migrating from the Middle East to African frontiers, as well as, religious nationalism hardening in South Asia. The result is a sobering map of persecution hotspots, from Nigeria and Sudan, to India’s volatile anti-conversion climate, and even Latin America’s democratic backsliding. 

Amid the headlines, Dr. Marshall returns to a simple, subversive confession: we have another King. That allegiance explains why authoritarians fear genuinely independent churches, even when they are peaceful, and why conversion stirs backlash in traditional societies suddenly flooded with choice. We unpack how modernity and the possibility of new birth collide, creating both opportunity for the gospel and tension with guardians of inherited order. 

From there, we draw a careful line between what Christians should expect from the state—protecting life, restraining violence, guarding basic liberties—to what the state must never attempt, such as shaping creeds and appointing religious leaders. Rather than chasing the allure of political persuasion or empire, the church should simply champion its traditional works of mercy: schools, hospitals, welcoming the immigrant, and caring for the poor. This is what bears witness to a different kingdom. 

If you'd like to learn more from Dr. Paul Marshall, you can purchase one of his most recent books, go to his website or follow him on Facebook. 

And please don't forget to share this episode and join the conversation on YouTube! 

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