Faithful Politics

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn the latest episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome Matt Martens, a trial lawyer, former federal prosecutor, seminary graduate, legal ethics professor, and award-winning author. Martens discusses his new book, "Reforming Criminal Justice: A Christian Proposal," which outlines a Christian ethical framework for criminal justice reform. He shares how his experiences, including being encouraged by pastors and reflecting on events like Ferguson and George Floyd's death, led him to write the book. Martens emphasizes that Christian justice is rooted in love for neighbors and accuracy in legal proceedings, highlighting the tragic impact of wrongful convictions. He also addresses the controversial topic of the death penalty, advocating for its reform due to issues of racial bias and inaccuracies in the justice system. Martens calls for Christians to engage with justice issues by voting, serving on juries, and understanding the true nature of biblical justice. The discussion underscores the importance of a fair legal process and the need for accountability in law enforcement and prosecution. Buy the book: Reforming Criminal Justice: A Christian Proposal: https://a.co/d/6Ewme87Guest Bio:Matthew T. Martens graduated first in his class both in law school (University of North Carolina School of Law) and in seminary (Dallas Theological Seminary). He is a trial lawyer and partner at an international law firm in Washington, DC. He has spent the bulk of his more than twenty-five-year legal career practicing criminal law both as a federal prosecutor and as a defense attorney. He served as a law clerk to Chief Justice William Rehnquist at the US Supreme Court and also as a political appointee in the criminal division of the US Justice Department under Attorney General Ashcroft. Matt and his wife are members at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, DC, and have two sons and a daughter.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, we dive deep into the complexities of Critical Race Theory (CRT) with Dr. Ed Uszynski. Ed, who holds a PhD from Bowling Green State University, brings his extensive background as a content specialist and diversity consultant to our discussion. We explore his new book, "Untangling Critical Race Theory: What Christians Need to Know and Why It Matters," and delve into the nuances of race, sports culture, and marriage within the Christian context.Ed shares his journey from growing up in a diverse neighborhood to becoming an evangelical Christian and studying Marxism and critical theory. He emphasizes the importance of civil discourse and understanding different perspectives within the church, highlighting the historical and ongoing relevance of racial issues in America. Through this conversation, we aim to shed light on how Christians can engage with CRT thoughtfully and biblically, fostering unity and understanding.Join us as we tackle challenging questions about race, justice, and the gospel, and learn how to navigate these critical conversations within your own communities.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Law professor John Inazu discusses his book 'Learning to Disagree' on handling disagreements in a pluralistic society. He emphasizes empathy, patience, and forgiveness in managing conflicts, and criticizes media partisanship in political discourse. Inazu offers practical tips for diversifying news sources and engaging in constructive conversations.

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this conversation, Caleb Campbell discusses his book 'Disarming Leviathan: Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbor' and the rise of Christian nationalism in America. He shares his personal experiences with Christian nationalism within his congregation and the broader Christian community. Campbell explains the metaphor of Leviathan and how it represents the chaotic and evil forces that work against the ordered ways of God. He also explores the reasons why people are drawn to Christian nationalism, including the fear of ethnic erasure and the desire for power and protection. Campbell highlights the role of pastors and politicians in perpetuating Christian nationalism and the need for deep biblical literacy and critical thinking. In this conversation, Caleb E. Campbell discusses his approach to engaging with Christian nationalism and offers practical techniques for having conversations with Christian nationalists. He emphasizes the importance of a pastoral approach, focusing on the heart rather than the head. Campbell suggests inviting Christian nationalists into a safe and hospitable environment, engaging in humble subversion, and asking questions that challenge the tension between their beliefs and the teachings of Jesus. He also highlights the need for humility and open-mindedness in these conversations, recognizing that both sides have something to learn from each other. Campbell's prayer for the upcoming election season is for the church to receive the unveiling of what's really going on and to work towards a fresh expression of the church that transcends Americanness.Buy the book: https://a.co/d/00jrMgz2Guest Bio:Pastor Campbell graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Masters of Arts in Ministry from Phoenix Seminary in 2015 and is currently a doctoral student at Fuller Theological Seminary.He has served at Desert Springs Bible Church, in Phoenix, AZ since 2006, serving as Lead Pastor since 2015.He also serves on the board of United Pastors of Arizona and as the state-wide regional director of the Surge Network. He has spoken at events hosted by Acts 29, African American Christian Clergy Coalition, the Surge Network, Grand Canyon University, Converge Arizona, Young Life and Phoenix SeminarySupport the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with Amy Lowe, author and managing director for fellowships and nonprofit journalism at the Emerson Collective. Amy recently released her memoir, "The Brave In-Between: Notes from the Last Room," which candidly explores her journey with stage four metastatic colon cancer and her quest to balance joy and sorrow.Amy shares her deeply personal story, from her shocking diagnosis at age 48 to her immediate dive into treatments including chemotherapy and major surgeries. Her resilience and positive outlook, even in the face of grim statistics, are truly inspiring. Amy delves into the concept of the "last room"—a metaphor for facing life’s final stages with courage and grace—explaining how her faith and the virtues from Philippians 4:8 have been guiding lights through her darkest times.She also opens up about her experiences with forgiveness, touching on personal challenges with infidelity and divorce, and her journey towards peace and reconciliation. Amy's reflections on finding beauty in the mundane and living fully, despite her terminal illness, provide a powerful testament to human resilience. This conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own challenges and the sources of strength they can draw upon in difficult times.Tune in for an emotional and inspiring discussion that will leave you with a renewed perspective on life, faith, and the power of resilience.Buy the book 'The Brave In-Between: Notes from the Last Room': https://a.co/d/0hJMivyuAbout the AuthorAmy Low has been a storyteller all her life. She grew up in and continues to live life through parables and metaphors.  She sees her life as an invitation to discovering the new every day and even records some of these discoveries in her Substack, Postcards from the Mountain. As the managing director for fellowships and nonprofit journalism at the Emerson Collective, she directs efforts to empower individuals and newsrooms to strengthen our shared conversation in the public square. Most important, Amy is mom to Connor and Lucy. Her proudest achievement is raising a son and daughter who are unafraid, grateful, and curious, whether in class, at home, on stage, and especially in the band. Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn the recent episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Josh Burtram and Will Wright interview Grace Ji-Sun Kim, a theology professor and ordained minister. The discussion centers on her new book, "When God Became White: Dismantling Whiteness for a More Just Christianity." Grace, who has an extensive background in theology and has written numerous books, shares her personal journey as a Korean immigrant in Canada and the U.S., and how her experiences with racism and sexism have shaped her theological views.She explains the concept of whiteness as a social construct used historically to maintain power and privilege among white people, beginning with colonialism and slavery. This construct has also permeated religious spaces, with the depiction of a white Jesus reinforcing white supremacy and marginalizing people of color. Grace emphasizes the importance of questioning and deconstructing these images and notions to promote a more inclusive and just understanding of Christianity.The conversation delves into the impact of these constructs on individual identities and the broader society, highlighting the need for education and reimagining religious symbols and language. Grace advocates for a deeper and more inclusive understanding of God that transcends racial and gender biases. Buy the book: https://a.co/d/h4XdxcMGuest Bio:Grace Ji-Sun Kim is a distinguished theologian, professor, and ordained minister. Currently teaching at the Earlham School of Religion, she holds both an MDiv and PhD from the University of Toronto. Grace is widely recognized for her insightful contributions to theology and social justice, frequently addressing issues of race, gender, and religion. She is the author of several influential books, including "Invisible," "Reimagining Spirit," "Healing Our Broken Humanity," and her latest work, "When God Became White: Dismantling Whiteness for a More Just Christianity."Her writings have been featured in prominent publications such as Time, Huffington Post, U.S. Catholic, and The Nation, and she has appeared on major media outlets including MSNBC, PBS, and C-SPAN. Grace is a sought-after lecturer who has presented globally, including in Malaysia, Korea, and Brazil. She serves on multiple boards, including the American Academy of Religion and Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Josh Burtram and Will Wright interviewed Joel Looper, a researcher, writer, and teacher at Baylor University. Looper, who holds a PhD in divinity with a focus on Dietrich Bonhoeffer's views on America, discussed his latest book, "Another Gospel," which examines Christian nationalism and its impact on the evangelical church.Looper shared his background, growing up in an evangelical church in Michigan, and how his observations of political and religious dynamics, especially around the time of Trump's rise and the January 6th insurrection, motivated him to explore Christian nationalism. He argues that Christian nationalism, which conflates Christian identity with national identity, is akin to the "another gospel" Paul warned about in Galatians. Looper explained that Christian nationalists prioritize American political concerns over the universal mission of the church, which he sees as a dangerous distortion of the gospel.The conversation also delved into the historical and theological roots of Christian nationalism, drawing parallels between first-century Jewish nationalism and contemporary American politics. Looper highlighted the importance of understanding these issues within the broader context of church history and scripture.Additionally, the interview touched on Looper's insights into Russian Christian nationalism, suggesting that similar dynamics are at play in both the U.S. and Russia, where national identity is closely tied to religious identity. He emphasized the need for Christians to engage in politics with integrity and to prioritize their spiritual allegiance over nationalistic fervor.The episode concluded with a discussion on the challenges facing the evangelical church today and the importance of returning to the teachings of Jesus to navigate the complex intersection of faith and politics.Buy the book: Another Gospel: Christian Nationalism and the Crisis of Evangelical Identity (https://a.co/d/4JrFWer)Guest Bio:Dr. Joel Looper is a dynamic communicator, writer, and researcher with extensive teaching experience. He holds a PhD in divinity from the University of Aberdeen, where he focused on Dietrich Bonhoeffer's views on America. Additionally, he earned dual MA degrees in theology andSupport the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of the Faithful Politics podcast, hosts Will Wright and Josh Burtram interview Mike Madrid, a veteran political consultant and co-founder of the Lincoln Project. Madrid discusses his new book, The Latino Century, which explores the evolving political landscape shaped by the Latino electorate in the United States.Madrid shares his personal background growing up in Southern California and how his Catholic upbringing influenced his perspectives on public service and politics. He elaborates on the shift in Latino voters from a primarily Democrat-leaning bloc to a more politically diverse and influential group. Madrid explains that the Latino community, particularly second and third-generation Latinos, are becoming more moderate and increasingly independent, often not aligning strictly with either major political party.The conversation also touches on the changing demographics of America, the impact of Latino cultural values on political behavior, and the challenges and opportunities both major parties face in engaging Latino voters. Madrid highlights the need for political parties to address the concerns of a multi-ethnic working class to remain relevant.The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of American politics, emphasizing the potential for a more pluralistic and inclusive society. Madrid expresses optimism about the country's ability to navigate its current challenges and emerge stronger, thanks to the diverse contributions of its people.Buy the book: The Latino Century: How America's Largest Minority Is Transforming Democracy (https://a.co/d/2Flvc0N)Guest bio:Mike Madrid is a communications expert and a nationally recognized expert on Latino voting trends. He graduated from the Edmund G. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University in 1997, where he wrote his senior thesis on Latino politics and the perspective that politicization of emerging Latino voter groups in Southwestern states was unique in American history. The work focused largely on a critical assessment of professor Peter Skerry’s work “Mexican Americans: The Ambivalent Minority” and addressed questions surrounding the experience of Mexican American politicization as a choice between the pursuit of an aggrieved racial minority or a mSupport the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this deeply moving and insightful episode of Faithful Politics, your political host Will Wright dives into an essential conversation with writer and editor Cait West.  The episode centers around Cait's journey of breaking away from the Christian Patriarchy Movement, which she details in her powerful new book, "Rift." She explains the metaphorical significance of the title, reflecting on her personal experiences and the geological imagery it conjures.Cait provides an in-depth look at the Christian Patriarchy Movement, describing it as a strict ideology where men are seen as divinely appointed leaders, and women are groomed to be subservient. She shares her personal story of being a "stay-at-home daughter," expected to remain at home until marriage, with no access to college, dating, or jobs.The conversation touches on the broader implications of patriarchy, exploring how it impacts gender roles, personal autonomy, and religious beliefs. Kate also discusses the difficult process of leaving this movement, the emotional and practical challenges involved, and the impact on her relationship with her family.Will and Cait discuss the intersection of politics and religion, the rise of Christian nationalism, and the implications for women's rights and bodily autonomy. Cait's insights into the authoritarian nature of the movement and its reactionary stance against feminism provide a compelling backdrop to her personal narrative.Cait's memoir not only tells her story but also serves as a voice for others who have experienced similar trauma. She emphasizes the importance of validation, support, and the ongoing journey of healing. The episode concludes with a message of hope and resilience for those who may be experiencing similar struggles.Buy her book, Rift: A Memoir of Breaking Away from Christian Patriarchy" https://a.co/d/8TJMMyiAbout the guestCait West is a writer and editor based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her work has been published in The Revealer, Religion Dispatches, Fourth Genre, and Hawai`i Pacific Review, among others. As an advocate and a survivor of the Christian patriarchy movement, she serves on the editorial board for Tears of Eden, a nonprofit providing resources for survivors of spiritual abuse, and cohosts the poSupport the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of the Faithful Politics podcast, Josh and Will welcome Peter Wehner, a prominent political commentator, author, and senior fellow at the Trinity Forum. Peter Wehner shares his extensive background in public service, including roles in the Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush administrations. The discussion dives into the intersection of Christianity and politics, exploring how Peter's faith journey influenced his political career and writing. They discuss the contemporary Christian landscape, particularly how the Trump era has impacted evangelical Christians' political alignments and the broader societal implications.Peter articulates the deep divisions within the Christian community, driven by politics and cultural shifts. He highlights the problematic alignment of some evangelicals with Trump's ethos, which he argues has amplified negative traits such as resentment and grievance. The conversation also touches on Peter's recent article in The Atlantic, where he reflects on Christianity's relationship with power, emphasizing the faith's anti-power ethos exemplified by the crucifixion.The dialogue covers significant historical moments that shaped the evangelical political landscape, the role of the media, and the challenges of maintaining faith integrity in a polarized political environment. Both hosts express appreciation for Peter's insights and the need for a more reflective and compassionate Christian witness in today's society.Read the article mentioned in this conversation THE GREATEST CONTRIBUTION OF CHRISTIANITYGood Friday reminds us of the ephemerality of human power: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/03/easter-christianity-relationship-with-power/677921/Guest Bio:Peter Wehner is a contributing writer at The Atlantic and a senior fellow at the Trinity Forum. His books include The Death of Politics: How to Heal Our Frayed Republic After Trump, City of Man: Religion and Politics in a New Era, which he co-wrote with Michael Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com