Thank you, Jemar. Every time you post, I learn something new and come away with something to "chew on". Today I am enjoying the taste of evangelicals rallying behind Kamala and inviting you to speak on their program. I hope the Evangelicals for Harris website posts a recording of that call - I would love to listen to it.
On Monday night of this week I tuned in to the Christians for Kamala event, which IMHO was fabulous. The link is here: https://johnpavlovitz.com/christiansforkamala. Over and over, these speakers did a beautiful job of connecting the dots between Democratic values, issues and policies and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For too long Democrats have ceeded control of the faith narrative to Republicans, who have abused it and used it to establish authoritarian control. This event reclaimed the true faith narrative for Democrats, and I pray that organizers will put this front and center stage at the Democratic convention next week.
Do I still use the term "evangelical"? Not on this side of the pond. People who know me know my influences include CS Lewis and NT Wright (who IMO define evangelicalism) but in today's America most so-called evangelicals only give lip-service to the first and have never heard of the second.
Why would an evangelical vote for Kamala Harris? For many reasons, including the very one given by that so-called "investigative journalist" above: Ms. Harris and her party treat people from other countries -- people who come to us asking for help -- as human beings. As Christians we would add that these new arrivals are beloved people made in the image of God. Scripture NEVER teaches us to attach labels ("illegals", "aliens"); scripture teaches us to welcome the stranger, care for the sick and injured, feed the hungry, heal the wounded. Jesus said: "As you do to others, you do to Me."
Thank you for writing and explaining thin versus thick political theology. It's helpful to have the words to use to explain my position. I appreciate you Dr. Tisby. Your thinking and theology has most certainly turned my world upside down and given me courage to speak up for those who are oppressed in our society. I'm voting for Harris Walz in November. I'm not going to listen to the political spin that wants to spark division and hatred in our country. Voting for the alternative is much more frightening to me.
I definitely don’t use the term Evangelical for myself. Though I grew up evangelical and am still a Christian, it almost feels like I practice an entirely new religion than what I was raised with. I honestly don’t think I really heard the gospel until I was 40.. and that was after growing up in evangelical churches and schools my entire life. As Dr. Stephen Backhouse (I think you were on his podcast a few years ago?? :) ) quotes Kierkegaard, there is a big difference between Christendom and The Way of Jesus quite often. And as I’ve studied more theology, I find I’m not only no longer a subscriber to evangelical culture, but also much of its theology as well. I even struggle to say I’m a Christian sometimes because of what that can mean to folks.. so just say a follower of Jesus. I appreciate people who still call themselves Evangelicals though and practice the Beattitudes and work for shalom. Not throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Like you, Lisa Sharon Harper, NEME (Network of Evangelicals for Middle East Peace), Munther Isaac, etc. -there’s a few evangelical hold outs that I find refreshing and admire. The term Evangelical has become far too easy to judge and scapegoat. Those who keep it nuanced are people I respect, and a good reminder that no tradition, ideology, or term is a monolith.
Well said and written. Thank you so much for being a voice of reason and logic. The irony is that white evangelicalism in the 70s-90s placed a huge emphasis on apologetics and the existence of absolute truth. Today, they are the ones by practice that ignore reason and absolute truth.
I think the former mentality ultimately leads to the fruit we’re now seeing as that path keeps unfolding. Apologetics and “absolute truth” were really coming from more of a spirit of domination and control rather than humility and living with mystery and love of neighbor without needing them to be a certain way. What we’re seeing now is the natural evolution of where an ideology that needs to dominate, be right, and know the truth at the exclusion of other points of view leads. I think the facts that you mentioned are great and they also are absolutely connected, not at odds at all. 🥴
You have articulated well the result of the evangelicals' most distressing problem, Dr. Tisby. The heart, however, is our failure to reflect, as a collective entity, the true heart and priorities of the Savior as our Lord.
I mourn the loss of the real meaning of “evangelical,” although theologically I still see myself that way. As Peter said, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…”
1 Peter 3:15 NIV
I pray for the strength to continue to do that, and I give thanks for others who do the same, but I don’t describe myself as an evangelical anymore. Too much baggage.
There was a time that I always wore a cross necklace to identify myself as Christian but then I would speak to the injustice of the world, including the exclusion of the LGBTQ+ community and racism. That was my way of being when I lived in the South. Then I moved back "home" to the West and still spoke out about inclusion. I never identified myself as "evangelical", though I suppose I was. Coming from an Anabaptist background, it was not a word "we" used as an identification. However, I don't even say I'm "Christian" anymore. My preference is to identify as "Christic", meaning I follow the way of Christ consciousness. I'm looking for a way to say that without using "Christ" because for many in the "evangelical" world, Christ is the last name of Jesus. Even the Buddhists refer to Christ consciousness, and add that it is not only a Christian way of living in the world. Dang it...the Nationalists have ruined all of the good phrases.
And to your second question: it is clear that Kamala Harris’ vision and plan for our country aligns more with lifting up and helping people as a whole, to live joyful and flourishing lives; it is truly “loving our neighbor as ourselves” to vote in ways that help all of us live more peacefully and wholly.
Thanks for this important historical perspective on one of the most critical issues in this election. After years of enduring "christian" attacks on our freedom, justice and equality - this is a fresh breeze. I think it is a gift of the Spirit - and hopeful!
Again, you continue to serve at the nexus of our need. Much appreciated. If you have moment this morning please reach out to me at charliepeacockmusic at icloud dot com Peace.
Personally, I identify as an ecumenical Christ-following bridge builder. Writing my racial autobiography (recommended in Dr. Tisby’s book, “How to Fight Racism,”) helped me identify my upbringing & living within white Christian nationalism, which I renounced.
I couldn't join the call last night but really appreciated that you posted your comments here. Thank you! And thank you for persevering. I am praying for you and your team.
I have many concerns, chief among them is christians not understanding our nation's purpose in its founding. Understanding that history is one of the keys to preserving our democracy.
Seems like some Christians want to make the Bible the law of the land. People forget why America was founded (with all its sins and faults notwithstanding), they wanted to get away from the state church of England and King George III, who was head of state and the head of the church.
The US Constitution contains no Scripture references and no mention of Jesus. Not because many didn't believe in Him, but because they did not want a government run by church people. Religious freedom was a bedrock in the Constitution, and even the choice to have no religion at all.
People cannot be compelled to obey the Bible, especially those who are not born again and led by the Holy Spirit. Unfortunately, some people who are born again and have the Holy Spirit don't obey the Bible!
Today, we see what happens when "Christians" try to get into government without regard for the Constitution. Confusion, compromise, and elevating people like DJT and put our democracy at risk.
Vote for Kamala Harris is a vote to keep Donald Trump and the antidemocratic Republican party from dominating national government.
Thank you, Jemar. Every time you post, I learn something new and come away with something to "chew on". Today I am enjoying the taste of evangelicals rallying behind Kamala and inviting you to speak on their program. I hope the Evangelicals for Harris website posts a recording of that call - I would love to listen to it.
On Monday night of this week I tuned in to the Christians for Kamala event, which IMHO was fabulous. The link is here: https://johnpavlovitz.com/christiansforkamala. Over and over, these speakers did a beautiful job of connecting the dots between Democratic values, issues and policies and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For too long Democrats have ceeded control of the faith narrative to Republicans, who have abused it and used it to establish authoritarian control. This event reclaimed the true faith narrative for Democrats, and I pray that organizers will put this front and center stage at the Democratic convention next week.
Do I still use the term "evangelical"? Not on this side of the pond. People who know me know my influences include CS Lewis and NT Wright (who IMO define evangelicalism) but in today's America most so-called evangelicals only give lip-service to the first and have never heard of the second.
Why would an evangelical vote for Kamala Harris? For many reasons, including the very one given by that so-called "investigative journalist" above: Ms. Harris and her party treat people from other countries -- people who come to us asking for help -- as human beings. As Christians we would add that these new arrivals are beloved people made in the image of God. Scripture NEVER teaches us to attach labels ("illegals", "aliens"); scripture teaches us to welcome the stranger, care for the sick and injured, feed the hungry, heal the wounded. Jesus said: "As you do to others, you do to Me."
Thank you for writing and explaining thin versus thick political theology. It's helpful to have the words to use to explain my position. I appreciate you Dr. Tisby. Your thinking and theology has most certainly turned my world upside down and given me courage to speak up for those who are oppressed in our society. I'm voting for Harris Walz in November. I'm not going to listen to the political spin that wants to spark division and hatred in our country. Voting for the alternative is much more frightening to me.
I definitely don’t use the term Evangelical for myself. Though I grew up evangelical and am still a Christian, it almost feels like I practice an entirely new religion than what I was raised with. I honestly don’t think I really heard the gospel until I was 40.. and that was after growing up in evangelical churches and schools my entire life. As Dr. Stephen Backhouse (I think you were on his podcast a few years ago?? :) ) quotes Kierkegaard, there is a big difference between Christendom and The Way of Jesus quite often. And as I’ve studied more theology, I find I’m not only no longer a subscriber to evangelical culture, but also much of its theology as well. I even struggle to say I’m a Christian sometimes because of what that can mean to folks.. so just say a follower of Jesus. I appreciate people who still call themselves Evangelicals though and practice the Beattitudes and work for shalom. Not throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Like you, Lisa Sharon Harper, NEME (Network of Evangelicals for Middle East Peace), Munther Isaac, etc. -there’s a few evangelical hold outs that I find refreshing and admire. The term Evangelical has become far too easy to judge and scapegoat. Those who keep it nuanced are people I respect, and a good reminder that no tradition, ideology, or term is a monolith.
Well said and written. Thank you so much for being a voice of reason and logic. The irony is that white evangelicalism in the 70s-90s placed a huge emphasis on apologetics and the existence of absolute truth. Today, they are the ones by practice that ignore reason and absolute truth.
I think the former mentality ultimately leads to the fruit we’re now seeing as that path keeps unfolding. Apologetics and “absolute truth” were really coming from more of a spirit of domination and control rather than humility and living with mystery and love of neighbor without needing them to be a certain way. What we’re seeing now is the natural evolution of where an ideology that needs to dominate, be right, and know the truth at the exclusion of other points of view leads. I think the facts that you mentioned are great and they also are absolutely connected, not at odds at all. 🥴
You have articulated well the result of the evangelicals' most distressing problem, Dr. Tisby. The heart, however, is our failure to reflect, as a collective entity, the true heart and priorities of the Savior as our Lord.
I mourn the loss of the real meaning of “evangelical,” although theologically I still see myself that way. As Peter said, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…”
1 Peter 3:15 NIV
I pray for the strength to continue to do that, and I give thanks for others who do the same, but I don’t describe myself as an evangelical anymore. Too much baggage.
Certainly hope many 'evangelicals' and 'exvangelicals' vote for Harris-Walz. Know so many so-called evangelicals voting for the former guy.
There was a time that I always wore a cross necklace to identify myself as Christian but then I would speak to the injustice of the world, including the exclusion of the LGBTQ+ community and racism. That was my way of being when I lived in the South. Then I moved back "home" to the West and still spoke out about inclusion. I never identified myself as "evangelical", though I suppose I was. Coming from an Anabaptist background, it was not a word "we" used as an identification. However, I don't even say I'm "Christian" anymore. My preference is to identify as "Christic", meaning I follow the way of Christ consciousness. I'm looking for a way to say that without using "Christ" because for many in the "evangelical" world, Christ is the last name of Jesus. Even the Buddhists refer to Christ consciousness, and add that it is not only a Christian way of living in the world. Dang it...the Nationalists have ruined all of the good phrases.
I was unable to join the zoom call due to a previous commitment. I am so glad you and many other people that I admire were on the call!
I do not use the term evangelical myself anymore, due to the way it has been co-opted politically.
Glad to see Christ followers standing up and speaking for truth. Your elucidation of a thick theology is so spot on. 🙏🏻
And to your second question: it is clear that Kamala Harris’ vision and plan for our country aligns more with lifting up and helping people as a whole, to live joyful and flourishing lives; it is truly “loving our neighbor as ourselves” to vote in ways that help all of us live more peacefully and wholly.
Thanks for this important historical perspective on one of the most critical issues in this election. After years of enduring "christian" attacks on our freedom, justice and equality - this is a fresh breeze. I think it is a gift of the Spirit - and hopeful!
I appreciate your voice and scholarship.
Again, you continue to serve at the nexus of our need. Much appreciated. If you have moment this morning please reach out to me at charliepeacockmusic at icloud dot com Peace.
Today I found Hope anticipating Dr. Jemar Tisby’s book distribution. I look forward to learning about our courageous leaders.
https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/how-fannie-lou-hamer-challenged-nation
Personally, I identify as an ecumenical Christ-following bridge builder. Writing my racial autobiography (recommended in Dr. Tisby’s book, “How to Fight Racism,”) helped me identify my upbringing & living within white Christian nationalism, which I renounced.
I couldn't join the call last night but really appreciated that you posted your comments here. Thank you! And thank you for persevering. I am praying for you and your team.
I have many concerns, chief among them is christians not understanding our nation's purpose in its founding. Understanding that history is one of the keys to preserving our democracy.
Seems like some Christians want to make the Bible the law of the land. People forget why America was founded (with all its sins and faults notwithstanding), they wanted to get away from the state church of England and King George III, who was head of state and the head of the church.
The US Constitution contains no Scripture references and no mention of Jesus. Not because many didn't believe in Him, but because they did not want a government run by church people. Religious freedom was a bedrock in the Constitution, and even the choice to have no religion at all.
People cannot be compelled to obey the Bible, especially those who are not born again and led by the Holy Spirit. Unfortunately, some people who are born again and have the Holy Spirit don't obey the Bible!
Today, we see what happens when "Christians" try to get into government without regard for the Constitution. Confusion, compromise, and elevating people like DJT and put our democracy at risk.
Vote for Kamala Harris is a vote to keep Donald Trump and the antidemocratic Republican party from dominating national government.
Genius -- I love it