The New Evangelicals Podcast Tim Whitaker
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- Religion & Spirituality
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The New Evangelicals Podcast is here to push the Evangelical Church forward and to re-think how it approaches key cultural issues.
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249. TNE RECAPS: Sean Feucht v. Taylor Swift
Summary
In this conversation, Tim and April discuss Taylor Swift's new album and the criticism it has received from some conservative Christians. They address the accusations of blasphemy and witchcraft, as well as the critique of explicit lyrics. They also highlight the hypocrisy of supporting Donald Trump while condemning Swift's music. The conversation reveals the subjective nature of art interpretation and the need for self-reflection within religious communities. In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding the concepts of witchcraft, demons, and Christian nationalism. They critique the views of Sean Feucht, a Christian musician and activist, who uses buzzwords like witches and demons without fully understanding their historical and cultural contexts. They also highlight the financial motivations behind Feucht's activism and his association with other controversial figures like Mark Driscoll and Eric Metaxas. The conversation touches on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of Christian Zionism, as well as the harmful effects of fear-based ideologies and the importance of respecting individual beliefs.
Takeaways
The criticism of Taylor Swift's album by conservative Christians reveals the subjective nature of art interpretation.
Accusations of blasphemy and witchcraft are based on selective reading and misinterpretation of lyrics.
The hypocrisy of supporting Donald Trump while condemning Swift's music exposes the double standards within some religious communities.
Misunderstandings and misconceptions about witchcraft and demons are prevalent, often fueled by a lack of historical and cultural context.
Some Christian activists, like Sean Feucht, use buzzwords without fully understanding their meanings, leading to misrepresentations and fear-based ideologies.
Christian nationalism often promotes a narrow and exclusionary view of Christianity, disregarding the diversity of beliefs within the faith.
Respecting individual beliefs and avoiding the imposition of one's own beliefs on others is crucial for fostering understanding and dialogue.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Mispronunciations
07:06 Engaging with Different Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Affirmation
27:27 Sean Feucht's Urgent Message and Misguided Critiques
35:26 The Subjectivity of Art Interpretation and the Need for Self-Reflection
45:52 Navigating the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict with Nuance
52:56 Respecting Individual Beliefs and Avoiding Imposition
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The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.
We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!
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248. TNE RESPONDS: Exiles In Babylon Recap // Tim Whitaker
Summary
Tim recaps his experience attending the Exiles in Babylon conference and shares his thoughts on the event. The conference covered various topics such as Israel and Palestine, deconstruction and reconstruction, women and patriarchy, LGBTQ+ issues, and politics in the church. Tim discusses the controversy surrounding the event due to the host, Preston Sprinkle, holding a non-affirming stance on LGBTQ+ issues. He shares his own conflicted perspective on the matter. Tim also highlights the diversity of speakers and attendees at the conference and the positive conversations that took place.
Takeaways
The Exiles in Babylon conference covered a range of topics that are currently in the cultural zeitgeist.
The event was controversial due to the host, Preston Sprinkle, holding a non-affirming stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
The conference had a diverse range of speakers and attendees, fostering positive and thought-provoking conversations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Gratitude
06:32 Tim's Role at the Conference
10:34 Protesters and Criticism
15:47 The Burden of Side B Perspectives
25:40 Changing Perspectives and Encouragement
29:47 Supporting the Work of Project Amplify
Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community!
If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!
Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals
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The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.
We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!
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247. TNE TALKS: Compassion is Not Political // Bri Stensrud
Summary
Bri Stensrud, founder of Women of Welcome, and author of the book, Starts with Welcome: The Journey Toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation, discusses her passion for the immigration conversation and how it changed her personal and professional life. Bri reflects on the disconnect between the evangelical culture she grew up in and the reality of the immigration issue, and how it led her to question her faith, politics, and personal life.
Takeaways
The immigration conversation is complex and goes beyond legal and illegal distinctions; it involves understanding the holistic stories of individuals affected by violence, corrupt governments, and civil war.
The evangelical culture often prioritizes self-preservation and curated spaces over sacrificially living for others, which can lead to a disconnect between faith and compassionate action.
Compassion for immigrants and refugees is not a political stance but a prophetic movement rooted in the teachings of Jesus.
Engaging in the immigration conversation requires holding elected officials accountable, advocating for change, and recognizing that no political platform aligns perfectly with pro-immigrant values. Meeting people where they are in their understanding of immigration issues is important for fostering compassion and understanding.
Chapters
00:00 The Transformative Power of Encounters
03:46 The Disconnect Between Evangelical Culture and the Reality of the Immigration Issue
08:41 Moving Beyond Legal vs. Illegal
12:18 The Need for a Prophetic Movement: Compassion as a Spiritual Responsibility
27:53 Compassion and Understanding in Immigration Conversations
30:24 Starts with Welcome: A Faith-Filled Perspective on Immigration
33:44 Addressing the Broken Immigration System and the Need for Reform
41:37 Proximity and Compassion: Essential Elements in Immigration Advocacy
Read Start with Welcome by Bri Stensrud
Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community!
If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!
Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals
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The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.
We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!
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246. TNE RECAPS: Mark Driscoll Needs Therapy
Summary
In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the recent events involving Josh Howerton and Mark Driscoll. They talk about Josh's apology and the similarities between his apology and another pastor's apology. They also discuss Mark's controversial remarks at the Stronger Men's Conference and his use of the Jezebel spirit trope. The conversation delves into the problematic nature of these actions and the reactions from the audience and online community. In this conversation, Tim and April discuss the recent controversy surrounding Mark Driscoll and his involvement in the Stronger Men's Conference. They explore the dynamics of the charismatic world and its tendency to look for demons everywhere, as well as the intersection of Christian nationalism and charismatic beliefs. They also highlight the lack of accountability and the documented legacy of abuse associated with Mark Driscoll. The conversation touches on the internalized misogyny within evangelical circles and the problematic views on women's modesty. They conclude by discussing the recent developments involving John Lindell and his call for Mark Driscoll to repent.
Takeaways
Apologies should be genuine and not copied from others
Using the Jezebel spirit trope is sexist and misogynistic
Mark Driscoll's actions and remarks are calculated and attention-seeking
The reactions from the audience and online community reveal the problematic nature of these actions. The charismatic world is often primed to look for demons everywhere, and this tendency is amplified when combined with Christian nationalist beliefs.
Mark Driscoll has a history of abuse and a lack of accountability, yet he continues to gain a following and promote his new book.
There is a prevalent issue of internalized misogyny within evangelical circles, with many women defending Mark Driscoll despite his problematic views and treatment of women.
John Lindell has called out Mark Driscoll for his actions and has received death threats as a result.
The concept of 'modesty' in evangelical circles is often misused and places the burden on women to manage men's thoughts and actions.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting
07:07 Josh Howerton's Apology and Plagiarism
31:26 Mark's Calculated Actions and Reactions
43:04 John Lindell's Call for Mark Driscoll to Repent
Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community!
If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!
Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals
Subscribe On YouTube
The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.
We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!
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245. TNE RESPONDS: This Might Change the Church Forever Pt. 1 // Tim Whitaker and Dan Koch
Summary
In this conversation, Tim Whitaker and Dan Koch discuss the upcoming book by Richard B. Hayes, a respected New Testament scholar, titled 'The Widening of God's Mercy: A Thoroughly Biblical Account of LGBTQ Affirmation in the Church.' They explore the potential impact of the book and the various reactions it has received. They also discuss the importance of acknowledging the harm caused by previous non-affirming positions and the need for an apology. They consider the strategic implications of the book and its potential to shift the conversation in white evangelical spaces. They highlight the importance of listening to the voices of queer Christian scholars and the potential for the book to provide validation and support for those navigating their faith and sexuality. In this conversation, Tim Whitaker and Dan Koch discuss the complexities of personal beliefs and the influence of family and media. They explore the idea of holding contradictory views and the importance of integration and growth.
Takeaways
Richard B. Hayes, a respected New Testament scholar, has written a book titled 'The Widening of God's Mercy: A Thoroughly Biblical Account of LGBTQ Affirmation in the Church.'
The book has received various reactions, ranging from skepticism to hopefulness.
It is important to acknowledge the harm caused by previous non-affirming positions and to apologize for the damage done.
The book has the potential to make a significant impact in white evangelical spaces, particularly among the rank and file members of churches.
The strategic implications of the book should be considered, as it may provide validation and support for those navigating their faith and sexuality.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
06:47 Reactions and Expectations
26:52 Validation and Support for Navigating Faith and Sexuality
42:28 The Importance of Integration and Growth
Connect with Dan Koch
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The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.
We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!
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244. TNE TALKS: Our Unique Moment In American Democracy // Sharon McMahon
Summary
Sharon McMahon discusses her background. She emphasizes the importance of pluralism and focusing on behaviors rather than beliefs. She shares her passion for government and history, as well as the process of writing her book The Small and the Mighty.
Takeaways
Engaging with different perspectives can be challenging but is essential for personal growth and learning.
Online harassment is a significant issue, with women and minorities often facing more severe threats and abuse.
Christian nationalism is a threat to democracy, with some proponents advocating for authoritarianism and the exclusion of certain groups.
Polarization in American politics is not new, but the current era is unique due to factors such as the internet and media fragmentation.
The founding of America was not explicitly intended to be a Christian nation, and the principles of democracy should be prioritized over religious affiliation.
When voting, it is important to consider a candidate's character, commitment to democratic principles, and long-term impact rather than focusing solely on specific policies.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:00 Questioning Faith and Beliefs
06:04 Pluralism and Behaviors
09:56 Dealing with Misinformation and Fake Experts
14:56 Passion for Government and History
21:47 Challenges of Being a Content Creator
32:44 Engaging with Different Perspectives
35:38 The Meanest Group on the Internet
41:21 Polarization in American History
45:02 Christian Nationalism and its Impact
51:21 The Founding of America and Christian Influence
01:02:18 Critical Thinking in the Voting Process
Connect with Sharon McMahon
Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community!
If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!
Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals
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The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.
We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!
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Kundrecensioner
Great, important work
Please let April talk more. She’s awesome.
Thank you
Appreciate your work, I’m new around here, and excited to learn.
Baffled
I never understand why folks like this who are much closer to a more liberal branch of Christianity (such as (Episcopalian, universalist etc) don’t just align with them instead of choosing path of slamming the conservative evangelicals with whom they vehemently disagree. In other words there’s a group already out there for them. Confusing.