The Libertarian Christian Podcast Christians for Liberty

Cody Cook joins us once again to delve deep into the complex relationship between Christianity, libertarianism, and the contentious issue of violence and military service. Cody Cook, informed by his Christian anarchist and Anabaptist perspective, presents a critical analysis of various biblical passages often cited in discussions about Christians taking up arms or serving in the military.
Cook challenges traditional interpretations of the passage in Luke that suggests Jesus condoned his disciples buying swords, arguing instead for an understanding that aligns with fulfilling specific prophecies rather than advocating for self-defense. Backed by four solid reasons, including historical contexts and Tertullian's insights, Cook makes a compelling case for a nonviolent interpretation of Scripture.
The discussion touches on the delicate balance between the Christian impulse for self-protection and the promotion of long-term peace, debating the impact of Romans 13 on the present-day Christian libertarian thought. Cook and Stuart unpack the nuances around the topics of Christian nationalism and the implications of self-defense within a libertarian framework, understanding that these views may diverge within the Christian community.
Listeners will also get a glimpse into Cody Cook's literary contributions, including his books "What Belongs to Caesar," "Fight the Powers," and "Christian Nationalism," which provide further reading on these complex subjects and are available for LCI Insiders.
The dialogue brings forward the universal question of whether a Christian can reconcile serving as a soldier with their faith, as exemplified by the New Testament figure Cornelius. With a dose of humor and earnest reflection, Doug and Cody invite listeners to reconsider the interpretations that underpin their beliefs regarding violence and nonviolence in the New Testament.
Enrich your understanding of how libertarian principles mesh with Christian ethics and join our hosts as they navigate these critical issues with insight, reverence, and a willingness to challenge conventional viewpoints.
 Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com

Cody Cook is back for a deep dive into the complexities of interpreting Romans 13. Cody challenges traditional readings of these passages, suggesting that the Apostle Paul may have employed irony or even sarcasm when discussing the role of magistrates and the obedience due to them. Are rulers always to be obeyed, and do they consistently execute good? Cody argues otherwise, referencing external literature and historical context to support his claim.
Throughout the conversation, both Doug and Cody shed light on the responsibility of Christians to live a non-violent life, fueled by love that overshadows or catalyzes the judgment against oppressive rulers. They explore the nuanced Greek language and bring to the forefront the scholarly perspectives of T.L. Carter, along with thoughts from NT Wright and Michael Bird, suggesting a more ironic take on Paul's words.
Listeners will be invited to reconsider what it means to honor the magistrate and reflect on the broader implications of a duty-bound Christian conscience in the face of authority. This is a critical examination of libertarian and potentially anarchist views on governance, questioning if the state is indeed the sole model for societal order.
Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com

In this thought-provoking episode of the Libertarian Christian Podcast, our host Doug Stuart and special guest Cody Cook delve deep into the intricate balance between Christian duty and libertarian principles in the context of taxation. Drawing from the insights from Cody's book, we explore the controversial story in Matthew 17, where Jesus addresses the temple tax and lays the groundwork for a Christian understanding of fiscal obligations.
Guided by the Gospel's wisdom, we unpack the statement "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's, and unto God what is God's," and its relevance for libertarian Christians today. Cody Cook challenges the mainstream interpretation of divided allegiance between God and Caesar, arguing that the passage is not inherently contradictory for libertarians. As Jesus adeptly navigates the trap set by the Pharisees and Herodians, we learn the subtleties of non-confrontational tax compliance and the avoidance of unnecessary offense.
The duo also tackles broader questions of ownership and property rights, dissecting passages like Psalm 24 and Job 41:11, to contrast divine and human claims. Cody and Doug offer different hermeneutical perspectives, cautioning against simplistic readings and highlighting the historical and economic contexts of the scriptures.
This episode includes references to "Render unto Caesar," Psalm 24, Job 41:11, Matthew 17, and Matthew 22:15-22.
 Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com

How does the Economic Way of Thinking affect view of human flourishing? Can we really understand what it means for ourselves and our world by only thinking about economics? Russ Roberts joins us to talk about the ways in which economics can and cannot aide in our ability to pursue and achieve human flourishing.
(Re-Mastered for Re-Issue.)
Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com

Renowned theologian and biblical scholar Michael F. Bird joins us to explore the complex interplay between Jesus, Christianity, and the political powers that govern our world. His latest book, with N.T. Wright, is titled Jesus and the Powers, so this discussion delves deep into the foundations of political authority, the role of checks and balances in liberal democracy, and how Christians have historically engaged with—and at times transformed—political discourse.
Bird discusses his and Wright's views on government, and examines what it means to govern wisely as a Christian in today's diverse political landscape. 
The episode doesn't shy away from tough questions and theological debates. Does Paul's gospel possess an anti-imperial lean, and how does this shape our understanding of Christian allegiance? What does it look like to be a Christian in politics without succumbing to the temptations of nationalism or authoritarianism? Bird provides insightful analyses into these questions, exploring the biblical perspective on government, justice, and the tricky balance between divine authority and human institutions.
Can one be both a faithful Christian and a political leader in a predominantly secular government? How do we navigate the tension between Jesus' claim to lordship and the demands of earthly states? With Bird's scholarly perspective, we probe into the relationship between the kingship of God and concrete expressions of power in the world.

Additional Resources:
Michael's interview on religious freedomMichael Bird’s SubstackAmazon link to Jesus & the PowersRead Cody Cook's Review of Jesus and the Powers Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com
Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com

Randy England joins us to talk about his book, Free is Beautiful, a tremendous work on the foundations of libertarianism from a biblical and Church history perspective.
(Re-Mastered for Re-Issue.)
Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com