Good Faith

We're living in a cultural moment where so many people feel unseen and unheard. What if the answer is not some big government or nonprofit program, but rather something as intimate as this: a meaningful conversation. David Brooks joins the podcast to talk about his new book, "How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen." He and Curtis discuss the art of connecting with another person, and why our society so deeply needs to revive the skills involved. To make an end of year contribution to the Good Faith podcast, donate online here (https://redeemingbabel.org/donate-to-redeeming-babel/). For major gifts, donor advised funds, or family foundations, please email us at [email protected]. How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen by David Brooks

The Gaza crisis has sent out shock waves that extend to America. In this podcast, we explore how different communities and institutions in the US are responding. Rabbi Michael Holzman and David French join Curtis to examine what is happening for Jewish American communities, college campuses, the progressive movement, American evangelicals, and wider public support for Israel. "What it would mean to treat Hamas like ISIS" by David French (NYT) "The laws of campus culture wars" by David French (NYT) "The Left abandoned me" by Gal Beckerman (The Atlantic) "The Decolonization Narrative Is Dangerous and False" by Simon Sebag Montefiore (The Atlantic)

American youth who grew up in Christian families are leaving the church at a massive pace. Curtis talks with Kara Powell, executive director of The Fuller Youth Institute, about the complex reasons for this trend - and what can be done. They discuss why any understanding of the causes – and therefore the necessary response – must include parents and churches doing the hard work of self-examination and self-transformation. To make an end of year contribution to the Good Faith podcast, donate online here (https://redeemingbabel.org/donate-to-redeeming-babel/). For major gifts, donor advised funds, or family foundations, please email us at [email protected]. Kara's Ten x 10 Initiative that seeks to combine efforts to reach the next generation For resources on preventing and responding to suspected abuse in youth ministry, see GRACE (Godly Responses to Abuse in Christian Environments).

Some churches seek to exploit political controversy for self-serving ends. But many more churches instinctively avoid controversy, and steer away from topics that may reveal differences. In this episode, Curtis is joined by Chuck Mingo to explore a different route: treating this upcoming election season as an opportunity for spiritual growth. They make the case that the same spiritual muscles that get built in politics apply also to marriages, parenting, employment and other areas of discipleship. Curtis and Chuck also talk about the practicalities involved: what should happen on Sunday morning (and what shouldn't); the top rookie mistakes made when first trying to engage in politics; how the posture of the "wounded healer" is necessary for pastors; and much more. Find out more about the Undivided course and ministry here. Pre-order Chuck's book (written with Troy Jackson), Living Undivided: Loving Courageously for Racial Healing and Justice

In the diagnosis of the epidemic of anxiety sweeping through society, the examination has tended to focus on individual risk factors or macro-social trends (like social media and smartphone adoption among teens). But this misses something going on at the intermediary level between individuals and mass society: the state of the institutions that shape so much of our daily life. Curtis is joined by renowned scholar Yuval Levin in exploring the concept of "the anxious institution." They make the case that institutions both externally cause and internally experience anxiety in fascinating and important ways.

In a wide ranging conversation, founding friend David French takes over the reins for Curtis Chang and discusses the new book, The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis, Michael Graham, and Ryan Burge. David and coauthor Graham discuss all the reasons for "the great dechurching" with a particular emphasis on the more surprising results, as well as the difficulty reversing the decline in church attendance. We want to hear your "Campfire Stories" about living out your good faith! Share your stories with us today. The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis, Michael Graham, and Ryan Burge

It sure looks like Trump isn't going away. Many of us around the Good Faith campfire oppose him deeply. But we have people in our lives – sometimes in fractured relationships – who are going to support Trump once again. How do we relate to those people – those who are also parents, relatives, friends, co-workers, and neighbors? To wrestle with this complicated question, Curtis is joined by Pete Wehner, Senior Fellow at the Trinity Forum and contributor to the New York Times and the Atlantic. We want to hear your stories of living out your "good faith!" Share your stories with us today Pete Wehner's Atlantic article on the psychology of the Trump voter Check out resources to equip depolarizing conversations at Braver Angels

In this Good Faith Classic episode, Curtis and David talk with Meghan Sullivan, philosopher, teacher, and creator of the most popular class at the University of Notre Dame, "God and the Good Life." As many of us send our kids off to college (or head off to college ourselves), Meghan helps us appreciate the role of education–and of philosophy in particular–in helping students take on the big questions of life. Show Notes: –The Good Life Method by Meghan Sullivan and Paul Blaschko –God and the Good Life (Notre Dame course) –What is Philosophy?: Crash Course Philosophy #1 -We want to hear your stories of living out your "good faith!" Share with us at: https://redeemingbabel.org/campfire-stories/

Many Christians are tempted to just avoid the Book of Revelation. It can seem confusing and hard to read. Yet this avoidance can leave us vulnerable to the misuses of this part of Scripture, especially in making sense of our world. Here to help us is distinguished Biblical scholar, Tremper Longman III. Join us as we dive into the helpful - and unhelpful - ways to read the final culminating book of the Bible. We want to hear your stories of living out your "good faith!" Share with us at: https://redeemingbabel.org/campfire-stories/ Revelation Through Old Testament Eyes by Tremper Longman III Is the COVID vaccine the "mark of the beast?" by Curtis Chang Bright Hope for Tomorrow: How Anticipating Jesus' Return Gives Strength for Today by Chris Davis Revelation for Everyone (The New Testament for Everyone) by N.T. Wright Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church by N.T. Wright Revelation (Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture) by Peter S. Williamson All Things New: Revelation as Canonical Capstone by Brian J. Tabb B2THEWORLD: Join the Christian effort to rebuild high quality schools in war torn parts of the world. Matthew 5:9 Fellowship: Join with other pastors and Christian leaders seeking a way out of our political division.

Should your investment portfolio as a follower of Jesus look any different from everyone else's? Do our Biblical values have implications for our 401K? Robin John and Finny Kuruvilla founded Eventide Investments because they believe the answer is a resounding, "Yes!" They join Curtis to explore how we as Christians can pursue a kind of financial investing that "makes the world rejoice." Redeeming Babel is hiring! Check out our openings here for a Director of Development and a Manager of Partnerships and Projects. https://redeemingbabel.org/we-are-hiring/ The article the guests cited on the connections between pornography and the sex slave trade can be found here. Their article on how common mutual funds are complicit in fostering childhood smoking can be found here. Also, read about the work of the Justice Defense Fund in exposing how publicly traded companies - and investors in those companies - profit from pornography and sex abuse. B2THEWORLD: Join the Christian effort to rebuild high quality schools in war torn parts of the world. George Fox University: Check out the offerings of one of the premier Christian universities in the country.

What is happening inside us when we ourselves suffer or those around us are suffering? What is happening in our brain? In our soul? Curtis is joined by "the other Curt" - Dr. Curt Thompson - to talk about his new book, The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope. Their conversation explores questions such as: What is the connection between our desire for beauty and our vulnerability to suffering? Why do we avoid others when we ourselves are suffering? Why do the sufferings of others make us so uncomfortable? Most of all, the they probe for the invitation of God amidst suffering. Redeeming Babel is hiring! Check out our openings here for a Director of Development and a Manager of Partnerships and Projects. https://redeemingbabel.org/we-are-hiring/ The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope by Dr. Curt Thompson Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World by Tom Holland B2THEWORLD: Join the Christian effort to rebuild high quality schools in war torn parts of the world. George Fox University: Check out the offerings of one of the premier Christian universities in the country.

"Founding friend" David French returns to address with Curtis the visceral question in many hearts and minds, "When will things return to normal?" They explore all the questions behind the question, such as "What exactly is 'normal?" Does it differ for different people? What picture of the past undergirds my longing?" They compare this political and social moment with past eras in American history and church history. Most importantly, they ask, "Is this the right question that God would have us ask - or is there a better question to pose in this particular moment?" Redeeming Babel is hiring! Check out our openings here for a Director of Development and a Manager of Partnerships and Projects. https://redeemingbabel.org/we-are-hiring/ The Right: The Hundred-Year War for American Conservatism by Matthew Continetti "Three Generations Under One Roof" by David French in NYT

Why do we as a society keep building more and more housing for people who already have the most options, all the while we are forcing people who most need housing to scramble amidst shortage? How do we not just understand what is happening, but also make something better? Jimmy Wright and Michael Hall were motivated by their Christian faith to do just that via their business Launch Capital. Listen in to get inspired by their creative and hopeful work. RSVP here for the Washington DC live Good Faith recording on 9/5/23: Curtis will talk with AEI's Yuval Levin on Institutions and Anxiety. The event will be held in the AEI Auditorium at 1789 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 Matthew 5:9 Fellowship: Join with other pastors and Christian leaders seeking a way out of our political division. George Fox University: Check out the offerings of one of the premier Christian universities in the country. Learn more about Launch Capital and ways to invest in their model Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City and Poverty, by America (both by Matthew Desmond) Learn about the YIMBY (Yes, In My BackYard) movement

Bob Fu was a student leader during the Tiananmen Square demonstrations in 1989. He later became a "double agent," meaning he taught Communist Party officials during the day and operated illegal house churches at night. After he and his wife were imprisoned for "illegal evangelism," they eventually fled to the United States as religious refugees. Since then, Bob has helped rescue persecuted Christians around the world and has earned the moniker of "the operator of the Chinese Underground Railroad." On this week's Good Faith podcast, guest host Nancy French interviews Bob who explains China's human rights violations, the importance of religious freedom and rule of law, and how the Western church can pray for their persecuted brothers and sisters in China. SHOW NOTES: RSVP here for the Washington DC live Good Faith recording on 9/5/23: Curtis will talk with AEI's Yuval Levin on Institutions and Anxiety. The event will be held in the AEI Auditorium at 1789 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 B2THEWORLD: Join the Christian effort to rebuild high quality schools in war torn parts of the world. George Fox University: Check out the offerings of one of the premier Christian universities in the country. Notes on the ministry of Bob Fu "The Chinese Communist Party is rewriting the Bible: Gospel according to Chairman Xi has Jesus turn killer instead of forgiving sin," by Mike Gallagher, FoxNews. Donald Trump praises Xi to Tucker Carlson God's Double Agent: The True Story of a Chinese Christian's Fight for Freedom by Bob Fu, collaborator Nancy French The Politics of Inclusive Pluralism: A Proposed Foundation for Religious Freedom in a Post-Communist, Democratic China by Bob Fu Freedom to Pray – How Good Faith listeners can pray more effectively for their brothers and sisters in China. ChinaAid.org – ChinaAid exposes human rights abuses and promotes truth, justice and freedom by advocating for religious freedom and the rule of law in China. ChinaAid continues to endeavor for the immediate release of prisoners of conscience, equip human rights defenders and religious and community leaders with religious freedom and rule of law training, rescue and resettle persecuted leaders and their families, encourage families of prisoners of conscience by providing financial assistance, and exposing abuse by featuring unique stories of persecution and injustice on ChinaAid's website and through social media.

Our good friend and partner in The After Party project, Russell Moore, joins us to talk about his new book, "Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America." Curtis and Russell talk about why "mapping" our loss is critical for those who currently feel culturally, politically, or spiritually homeless. We explore two kinds of maps - the "treasure map" and the "minefield map" - and why Christians need both. "Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America" by Russell Moore Check out the opportunities at George Fox University Check out the opportunities with the Matthew 5:9 Network.

One cannot make sense of the deformation of the current conservative movement without understanding immigration. And one cannot grasp the nature of immigration without understanding anxiety. Like most political issues today, the topic of immigration is bathed in anxiety - for everyone on all sides. Curtis draws these connections, with the ultimate aim to show that Christians can uniquely contribute to the conversation about immigration because we have uniquely good news about anxiety. This episode draws from Curtis' talk at a convening of the National Immigration Forum in Ohio that included local pastors and civic leaders. January 6 Was Practice, The Atlantic, January 2022 by Barton Gellman Pew Research Center on Immigration and Politics Immigration and far-right voting : New evidence (from Europe) from the Center for Economic Policy Research (CEPR)

For this episode, we rerun David and Curtis tackling the topic of Christian nationalism. What is it exactly? How does it relate to a genuine Christian understanding of how faith should relate to a nation? And how does it relate to our Founders' intentions? Curtis and David also explore the nature of healthy patriotism and how to love your national home, warts and all. National Immigration Forum Ohio Conference: "From Anxious People to Hopeful People." Tuesday, July 25 from 10am-4pm at Vineyard Church (6000 Cooper Rd, Westerville, OH). It is free to attend and lunch is included. You can register for the National Immigration Forum event here. The After Party Informational Pastors' Lunch. Wednesday, July 26 from 12:00pm-1:30pm in Independence, OH. Email [email protected] for further details and the link to register. -Thomas Kidd: "Christian Nationalism vs. Christian Patriotism" -Deseret News: "What the latest data tells us about Christian nationalism" -French Press: "Discerning the Difference Between Christian Nationalism and Christian Patriotism" -French Press: "The Seeds of Political Violence Are Being Sown in Church"

Shiny Happy People, a new docuseries documenting the effects of the teachings of Bill Gothard on the Duggars, had the biggest debut of any documentary series ever produced by Amazon. In this episode of the Good Faith podcast, guest host Nancy French and "founding friend" David French discuss this popular series, the legacy of Bill Gothard, purity culture, and the true hope for those affected by this anti-Biblical ideology. SHOW NOTES: Shiny Happy People on Amazon Prime 'Shiny Happy People,' Fundamentalism and the Toxic Quest for Certainty by David French, New York Times; June 13, 2023. 'They Aren't Who You Think They Are:' The inside story of how Kanakuk—one of America's largest Christian camps—enabled horrific abuse by David French and Nancy French, The Dispatch; Mar 28, 2021 'It was just a thing at Kanakuk': Campers and staff say nudity was part of camp cultureBy Nancy French, Springfield News Leader, May 26, 2022 Survivors, ex-employees say Kanakuk Christian camp 'ministered' to its sexual predators, by Nancy French, USA Today, May 26, 2022 Nancy French's Tweet Thread on Kanakuk Ties to Bill Gothard Joe White Says Pete Newman's Wife Should've Been His First Layer of Accountability [Deposition Video] Check out the opportunities at George Fox University Check out the opportunities with the Matthew 5:9 Network.

We've witnessed story after story about the abuse of power practiced by Christians and Christian institutions. Does that mean that, to quote Lord Acton, that "power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely?" How should followers of Jesus relate to the possibility of wielding power? Cherie Harder, the President of The Trinity Forum, is ideally suited to address these questions. She's spent a lifetime in the corridors of power and shares a wealth of theological and practical wisdom on this important topic. The Trinity Forum For a helpful theological examination about power, check out Andy Crouch's Playing God: Redeeming the Gift of Power. Check out the opportunities at George Fox University Check out the opportunities with the Matthew 5:9 Network.

How can Christian respond to the epidemic of gun violence sweeping our country? Michael Allen and David Dillon join us to share about their inspiring work with Together Chicago. They are an unlikely pair in a racially divided city torn by violence: Michael is a former black pastor and David is a white business executive. Starting with their own friendship, Michael and David have led an innovative and inspiring campaign to counter the evil of gun violence with collaboration and hope. Find out more about Together Chicago The Unseen Realm by Micahel S. Hesier (recommended by Michael Allen) The Clapham Sect: How Wilberforce's Circle Transformed Britain by Stephen Tomkins (recommended by David Dillon) Evil and the Cross by Henri Blocher (recommended by Curtis Chang on why we ultimately are not called to "make sense" of evil, but rather to combat it). Check out the opportunities at George Fox University Check out the opportunities with the Matthew 5:9 Network.

This week, Curtis kicks off a two parter on the tough subject of guns in America. Part 1 is a Good Faith Classic where Curtis and David explored the tensions between gun culture and gun control in our hyper-polarized environment. They help us take a step back to think through the "how" of approaching such a complex issue versus just the "what" of our preferred policy outcome. Stay tuned for next week's Part 2 episode where Good Faith explores what a Christian response to gun violence could look like. Show Notes: Rand Corporation - Gun Policy in America Rand Corporation - How Gun Policies Affect Mass Shootings Malcolm Gladwell (New Yorker) - Thresholds of Violence: How school shootings catch on French Press - Pass and Enforce Red Flag Laws. Now. David French (The Atlantic) - What Critics Don't Understand About Gun Culture

The Asbury revival of early 2023 garnered a great deal of interest from Christians hungering for signs of hope. What's happening there now? In the first part, Curtis talks with the President of Asbury University, Kevin Brown, to learn more about the experience itself and how the institution has sought to steward this outpouring of the Holy Spirit. In the second part, "founding friend" David French joins Curtis to reflect more deeply on how God works through revivals, drawing on Asbury, US history, and especially their shared experience of revival at Harvard in the 1990's.

We examine the phenomena of spiritual abuse with the help of Dan Koch, researcher, therapist, and host of the podcast, You Have Permission. Both Curtis and Dan share how their own lives have been affected by spiritual abuse, and then together address questions such as, "Why can it be difficult to spot? What kind of impact does it leave? What makes spiritual abuse distinct from other kinds of abuse?" The conversation connects important theological insights - including the nature of institutional sin and redemption - with practical advice for victims, their loved ones, and current leaders of Christian organizations. Dan Koch's Spiritual Harm and Abuse Scale Clinical Screener Dan's You Have Permission Podcast Escaping the Maze of Spiritual Abuse: Creating Healthy Christian Cultures by Dr. Lisa Oakley Further resources on spiritual abuse from The Allender Center at the Seattle School

Longtime friend Andy Crouch joins Curtis to talk about what it means to truly rest the way God intended us to do so. Why is rest so important to creativity? What is the difference between rest and leisure? Is binge watching Netflix actually restful? What are other key mistakes we make in approaching this vital topic? The conversation is Good Faith at its best, combining Biblical theology, cultural analysis, and practical living. Wheaton College Graduate School offers 20 excellent master's, doctoral, and certificate programs, including flexible learning opportunities. Check out these offerings at: wheaton.edu/goodfaith. Learn more about how our Christian faith makes sense of life and health in the MedTech world at "The Christian Stake in Bioethics Revisited" - a conference by the Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity. The conference runs from June 22-24 at the Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in suburban Chicago. You can attend via in person, online live, or on-demand recording. Interested in financially sponsoring the Good Faith podcast as an institution or an individual? Read more about how to support Good Faith here at Redeeming Babel.

David returns from his recent trip to Kyiv to provide an eyewitness account of the war, including what it is like to survive the terror of a hypersonic missile attack by the Russians. He and Curtis discuss the physical, emotional, and spiritual toll of the war on the Ukrainian people. They explore what lessons we all should take from this ongoing, world changing event. Republic of Suffering: Death and the American Civil War by Drew Gilpin Faust Human Rights Watch report on Russian war crimes Learn more about how our Christian faith makes sense of life and health in the MedTech world at "The Christian Stake in Bioethics Revisited" - a conference by the Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity. The conference runs from June 22-24 at the Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in suburban Chicago. You can attend via in person, online live, or on-demand recording.

Curtis Chang, the regular host of the Good Faith podcast, takes a turn in the "guest seat" in this special episode in which Nancy French interviews him about his new book, The Anxiety Opportunity: How Worry Is the Doorway to Your Best Self. Curtis, who has suffered from anxiety to the point of losing his job as a senior pastor, offers up hard-earned wisdom that could transform one's view on parenting, relationships, and even politics. Curtis also talks about the way the church gets anxiety wrong, how Jesus dealt with anxious people, and how grieving is a necessary component of effectively walking through loss.

It's the 75th Good Faith episode and we're celebrating our "diamond" podcast by running back one of our first episodes. First released in November 2021, this episode is a "classic" (in our minds) because we define terms around several key questions that have recurred on Good Faith: "What is an 'evangelical?' Is it a set of religious beliefs, a set of cultural beliefs, or a set of political beliefs? How does evangelicalism compare with fundamentalism?" Is "evangelical" a term worth salvaging for Christians?" Show Notes: The French Press: "Did Donald Trump Make the Church Great Again?" Pew Research Center: "More White Americans adopted than shed evangelical label during Trump presidency, especially his supporters" National Association of Evangelicals: "What is an Evangelical?" (including the Bebbington Quadrilateral) Barna: "Survey Explores Who Qualifies As an Evangelical" (including the 9-point Evangelical) Ryan Burge: "For White Evangelical Republicans, Approval of Trump is About Immigration more than Abortion" Ryan Burge: "Why 'Evangelical' is becoming another word for 'Republican'" The French Press: "The American Crisis of Selective Empathy"

Jon Ward, senior political correspondent for Yahoo News, joins Curtis to talk about his process of deconstructing - and reconstructing - his life as a follower of Jesus. Jon draws on his recently released book, Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation, to dissect the spiritual, social, political, and emotional dimensions of his years growing up as an insider in the evangelical world. Jon also provides a fascinating account of why his life as a journalist has been so crucial to his faith. Curtis offers the Biblical basis for why deconstruction - properly understood - is necessary for every generation of believers. Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation by Jon Ward Forward Party (a new political party focused on local solutions) Order Curtis's new book, The Anxiety Opportunity

"Founding friend" David French returns to tackle the tough question that every Republican of good faith should be asking. They explain why this particular question of "Should I stay or should I go?" is highly relevant for everyone, regardless of political affiliation. The conversation explores the ways that political calculations inescapably are spiritual in nature, and the two have a fun time unpacking this reality via the "pirate ship" metaphor. Listeners will especially be helped by how David and Curtis explain the three main options - Leave, Stand, or Hide - facing anyone who feels caught in a deeply dysfunctional institution. For those who want to connect with other "Leavers," share your thoughts with others on the Good Faith "lifeboat" in the comments section for this episode (you only need to become a member by subscribing here - it's free). For those who want to make a "Stand" for the soul of the evangelical church, learn more about The After Party project. For those interested in the mindset of "Hiders, read Anne Applebaum's excellent analysis of the psychological rationalization practiced within the GOP (The Atlantic).

Curtis is joined by the world's leading expert on generational distinctions, Dr. Jean Twenge. They discuss the five major generations shaping our society, with a special focus on Gen Z. The conversation provides insight and practical help for parents, managers, and anyone else interacting across generational lines. Listen especially for Jean's top advice for parents on how to keep smartphones from destroying your child's mental health. Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents—and What They Mean for America's Future by Jean Twenge Have Smartphones Destroyed a Generation? (The Atlantic) After Babel (Jonathan Haidt's Substack that is examining the impact of smartphone on the mental health of Gen Z) How Low Can America's Birth Rate Go Before It's A Problem? (from FiveThirtyEight)

Curtis tackles this epoch defining question with Comment Editor in Chief, Anne Snyder Brooks. Together they explore the distinctive vision Christians have to offer a world beset by dehumanizing forces. This wide ranging exploration includes both the big ideas and stakes involved in this question, as well as practical steps each one of us can take to embody (in the words of Irenaeus) "the glory of God in a human being fully alive." Resources mentioned by Anne: Comment magazine's discussion of Christian humanism via an interview between David Brooks and Luke Bretherton (a colleague of Curtis at Duke Divinity School). The Revolt Against Humanity: Imagining a Future Without Us by Adam Kirsch The Congregation in a Secular Age: Keeping Sacred Time against the Speed of Modern Life by Andrew Root. See here to consider being a sponsor or donor of Good Faith.

Curtis talks with the "elder statesman" of Christian counseling, Dan Allender, about how therapy has influenced the American church - in much needed and also problematic ways. They explore how therapy has provided an important place for Christians to bring to Jesus the real, hard, and sometimes traumatic realities of life - often in ways that the church could not. They also examine how "moralistic therapeutic deism" increasingly describes the actual civil religion of Americans. For examples of great books by Dan and his lifelong friend, Tremper Longman III, consider these two classics: Bold Love and The Cry of the Soul: How Our Emotions Reveal Our Deepest Questions About God. For the original description of "moralistic therapeutic deism" as the religion of American youth, check out Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers by Christian Smith and Melina Lundquist Denton. Sponsorship details for Good Faith can be found here.

Andy Crouch returns to the podcast to question the widespread preoccupation with "making an impact." Andy and Curtis talk about the limitations, drawbacks, and even potential idolatry involved when institutions and individuals are so focused on this definition of success. They then explore an alternative way to conceive of Christians' role in the world, one that is rooted in the surprising model of Jesus. For those interested in sponsoring/supporting Good Faith: https://redeemingbabel.org/sponsorship-tiers-for-the-good-faith-podcast/

In front of a packed house at the National Press Club, Curtis Chang, original Good Faith co-host David French, and editor in chief of Christianity Today Russell Moore introduce the After Party project. The project seeks to heal the currently troubled relationship between Christians and politics. The conversation was hosted by Trinity Forum president Cherie Harder. In this wide ranging discussion, they talk about where we as Christians have gone wrong and how we can reform our political mindset with timeless Biblical truths. Show Notes: The After Party

Curtis and Nancy French explore the power of storytelling in everyday life. Nancy, a professional storyteller and New York Times best-selling author, urges listeners to "read" the stories of their own lives – in order to see how the ultimate Author of their stories (God) has shaped their destinies. Curtis and Nancy also encourage people to inhabit other peoples' stories and to interview family members, such as parents, to more clearly see the context of their "origin stories." SHOW NOTES: Penzu online journal Subscribe to Redeeming Babel and receive Nancy's resource, "100 Questions to Ask Your Parents Before They Die"

Curtis and "founding friend" David French explore Christianity and armed conflict. Viewed through the prism of the Ukraine War, they explore Christian just war theory. David, a former Army lawyer, walks through the moral and theological origins of the law of armed conflict. Curtis emphasizes the differences between the institutional purpose of the state and the church when it comes to war. Applying those principles to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, they discuss the necessity of Ukrainian resistance and the importance of American aid. A helpful summary from Thinking Faith on the Christian "just war" theological tradition

Curtis and guest Dr. Lydia Dugdale talk about life and death issues (literally) that affect every single human being. How do we face death? How can we die well? What are the cultural and medical forces that are leading so many to die poorly? Why are the practices of physican-assisted suicide and euthanasia gaining momentum and acceptance - and why has the Christian pro-life movement missed the deep connection between those practices and abortion? Dr. Lydia Dugdale is a professor at the Columbia University Medical School and a national leader in medical ethics. She is the author of The Lost Art of Dying. SHOW NOTES: Free PDF download of The Lost Art of Dying study guide. A pilot project in NYC that provides end-of-life resources for church leaders. An excellent compilation of Christian writing on euthanasia and related end of life issues. Coverage about Canada's euthanasia industry in Plough Magazine and the New Atlantis.

Rev. Justin Giboney and host Curtis Chang discuss how the Black church provides insight on the limitations of the progressive/conservative labels for all of us. Justin and Curtis also share candidly from their own experiences, giving everyone an intimate window into the complexities of racial identity and faith. AND Campaign How I Got Over The After Party project Dr. Charlie Dates Rev. Eugene Rivers The William J. Seymour Society (now Seymour Institute) Azusa Street Revival

Host Curtis Chang and regular guest David French discuss what young Christians need to be formed for thriving. In this far ranging conversation, they explore negative partisanship, the fruits of the spirit, the revival at Asbury, and how Christians should best interact with the world through politics. Also, Curtis describes how anxiety is a surprising underlying cause of the political acrimony and divisiveness that plagues our culture today. This special Good Faith podcast was recorded in front of a live audience at The Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, a higher education association of more than 185 Christian institutions around the world. SHOW NOTES: Pre-order Curtis Chang's upcoming book, The Anxiety Opportunity. Learn more about the theology of institutions via this online video course from Redeeming Babel Asbury Professor: We're Witnessing a 'Surprising Work of God' (from Christianity Today) More in Common: The Hidden Tribes Project Jonathan Haidt on the "Rider and the Elephant"

Peter Wehner's former office was the White House. He served in the Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush administrations, as Deputy Director of Speechwriting and later Director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives for President George W. Bush. Now, he's a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times, and a contributing editor for The Atlantic. He's been in the halls of power, and he writes for publications of prominence. So why has Peter been in exile? In this powerful episode, Curtis talks to his old friend about what it's like to have a role in the unfolding drama of American history, to believe your most important moments are in the past, and to walk out one's faith in complicated times. Show Notes: Global Giving - Turkey and Syria Earthquake Relief Fund: Two powerful earthquakes struck Turkey and Syria early Monday morning, killing more than 19,000 people and injuring thousands more. People are trapped and homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure have been destroyed under layers of rubble. Your donation to the Turkey and Syria Earthquake Relief Fund will provide emergency relief and fuel long-term recovery efforts in Turkey and Syria. Project Hope - Save Lives in Turkey and Communities in Crisis: Devastating earthquakes in Turkey (Türkiye) and Syria have left tens of thousands of families in desperate need of medical help and basic supplies. Our emergency response team is on the ground and working quickly to save as many lives as possible. Died: Steve Hayner, Former President of InterVarsity and Columbia Seminary, Christianity Today: This is a death notice for Steve Hayner, "one of the baby-boomer generation's most influential evangelical leaders, has died. He was known for his presidency at InterVarsity Christian Fellowship and later at Columbia Theological Seminary." Remembering Steve Hayner, InterVarsity: This reflection from Intervarsity about their former president states, "Steve became president of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship in 1988, near the end of a turbulent decade in which InterVarsity had five presidents. "Steve brought pastoral care, healing and hope to a community that had undergone much trauma," said Alec Hill, Steve's successor and InterVarsity's current president." "Painting As a Pastime" by Winston S. Churchill; "The perfect antidote to his 'Black Dog', a depression that blighted his working life, Churchill took to painting with gusto. Picking up a paintbrush for the first time at the age of forty, Winston Churchill found in painting a passion that was to remain his constant companion. This glorious essay exudes his compulsion for a hobby that allowed him peace during his dark days, and richly rewarded a nation with a treasure trove of work." "President Donald Trump? Just Say No," by Peter Wehner: This 2015 article describes Pete's unwillingness to embrace the new GOP candidate who would ultimately become President of the United States. "The GOP and the Birther Trap," by Peter Wehner: This 2011 Wall Street Journal article describes Wehner's take on a fringe conspiracy theory that was then front and center in American politics: the claim that President Barack Obama might not be a natural-born American citizen. "Why I Will Never Vote for Donald Trump," by Peter Wehner. This 2016 New York Times explains why Pete did not find Donald J. Trump suitable for the Oval Office. Creating Beauty in Exile: Mark Labberton: Mark Labberton, president of Fuller Seminary, reflects on the themes of exile in scripture and what it means to live a "faithful exilic life" in a culture shaped by fear and violence. Exile: A Conversation with N. T. Wright, Edited by James M. Scott, by N. T. Wright; According to N. T. Wright, the controlling narrative that shaped the thinking of Jesus and Paul is this: "Israel had grievously sinned against Yahweh and suffered the judgment of exile from its land. But even though Israel had returned, the majority of Jews of the second temple era regarded themselves in paradoxical exile under Roman rule and still awaiting their full restoration. It was this crisis of exile that reached its climax and resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ." Makoto Fujimura on Faith and Art by Dan Clendenin, Journey with Jesus: "Makoto Fujimura is a leading contemporary artist whose process driven, refractive "slow art" has been described by David Brooks of the New York Times as 'a small rebellion against the quickening of time.' Robert Kushner, in the mid 90's, has written on Fujimura's art in Art in America this way: 'The idea of forging a new kind of art, about hope, healing, redemption, refuge, while maintaining visual sophistication and intellectual integrity is a growing movement, one which finds Makoto Fujimura's work at the vanguard.'" The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth by Jonathan Rauch: Disinformation. Trolling. Conspiracies. Social media pile-ons. Campus intolerance. On the surface, these recent additions to our daily vocabulary appear to

New technology seems to be revolutionizing our world on a daily basis. ChatGPT — which has been used by more than a million people — might replace internet search engines and possibly your job. How should Christians deal with these machines that can communicate facts, create business plans, and do homework at the push of a button? On this week's episode of the Good Faith podcast, Curtis sits down with his friend, bestselling author Andy Crouch, to discuss how technology can enhance our lives or possibly deform us. They describe how technology paints as a false vision of human flourishing—and encourage Christians to fight back. SHOW NOTES: ChatGPT: In December 2022, Jeremy Howard, an artificial intelligence researcher, introduced an online chatbot called ChatGPT. Joe Rogan Interviews Steve Jobs (Artificial Intelligence): Hosted by a fake version of Joe Rogan, this podcast attempts to bring the late Steve Jobs' voice using artificial intelligence. "The meandering, near-20 minute fake interview was both surreal and occasionally funny," writes Kyle Barr. The Life We're Looking For: Reclaiming Relationship in a Technological World by Andy Crouch; The bestselling author Andy Crouch shows how we have been seduced by a false vision of human flourishing—and how each of us can fight back.

In life, we have moments in which opportunities present the possibility of dramatic change. Dr. Michael Lindsay, president of Gordon College, calls these instances "hinge moments," since a hinge can either shut or close a door leading to very different pathways in our lives. This episode of the Good Faith podcast is actually one of these "hinge moments" for co-hosts David French and Curtis Chang, as David transitions to his new job at the New York Times. What will happen to the podcast? (Spoiler alert: it will go on!) In this powerful episode, Dr. Lindsay joins his old friends David and Curtis to talk about his book, "Hinge Moments: Making the Most of Life's Transitions" and gives practical advice which applies to the podcasters and to all experiencing change that alters the course of our lives. SHOW NOTES: Hinge Moments: Making the Most of Life's Transitions by Dr. Michael Lindsay: In this book, Lindsay shares faith-based stories of success and failure from his 10-year study of 550 PLATINUM leaders. He has charted seven phases of transition, providing both practical and spiritual insights for making the most of each stage. In uncertain and tumultuous times, there is no better advantage than wisdom gained early. Me, Myself, and Bob: A True Story About Dreams, God, and Talking Vegetables by Phil Vischer: This story by the VeggieTales creator is about dreaming big and working hard, of spectacular success and breathtaking failure, of shouted questions, and, at long last, whispered answers. Sometimes God can use the death of a dream to point us toward true success.

Show Notes: A New Chapter in Millennial Church Attendance: "Patterns of attendance among younger generations can be especially important—and perplexing—for pastors to understand, in their own church and at large. Barna Group has studied the intersection of faith and culture for nearly four decades, with an emphasis on generational trends. This article explores recent data to help church leaders ground themselves in the present reality of church attendance across generations—especially Millennials—in 2022." The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein: "Richard Rothstein argues with exacting precision and fascinating insight how segregation in America—the incessant kind that continues to dog our major cities and has contributed to so much recent social strife—is the byproduct of explicit government policies at the local, state, and federal levels." The Technological Society by Jacques Ellul: "Ellul offers a penetrating analysis of our technological civilization, showing how technology—which began innocuously enough as a servant of humankind—threatens to overthrow humanity itself in its ongoing creation of an environment that meets its own ends." Nancy French's entertainment suggestion tweet thread: "In the French house, David and I love to watch series. Frequently, people ask what good shows we've watched, so I thought I'd start a list (and I'll keep adding to it) of some of the binge-worthy TV we've enjoyed." Fasting: The Ancient Practices by Scot McKnight: "Christianity has traditionally been at odds with the human body. At times in the history of the church, Christians have viewed the body and physical desires as the enemy. Now, Scot McKnight, best-selling author of The Jesus Creed , reconnects the spiritual and the physical in the ancient discipline of fasting."

In this podcast, David and Curtis return from trips around the world to give us a philosophical insight on courage. From Churchill to Lord of The Rings, stories of virtue can influence our own actions when tests cross our paths. They talk about the power of narratives and how they can build moral courage and character. Both dig into their past to bring up personal models of strength that have influenced who they are today. They wrap up with a critical look at political institutions under this moral framework. SHOW NOTES: -There's a Question My Confederate Ancestors Taught Me To Ask by David French. In this April 26, 2020 Dispatch article, David writes about the incredibly powerful pull of tribe over truth. -After Virtue: A Study in Moral Theory by Alasdair MacIntyre: Alasdair MacIntyre examines the historical and conceptual roots of the idea of virtue, diagnoses the reasons for its absence in personal and public life, and offers a tentative proposal for its recovery. -The Literary Churchill: Author, Reader, Actor by Jonathan Rose: Rose examines Churchill's careers as statesman and author, revealing the profound influence of literature and theater on Churchill's personal, carefully composed grand story and on the decisions he made throughout his political life. -Curtis's account of Churchill's book "Savrola" is taken from Gideon Haigh's 2014 Sydney Morning Herald article, "Winston Churchill's literary and theatrical influences" and his account of Nuremberg can be found at Nuremberg as the "City of Nazi Party Rallies." -A Hidden Life: Written and directed by Terrence Malick, this film depicts the true story of an Austrian farmer facing execution for refusing to fight for the Nazis during World War II.

What does it look like to have Christian hope in this chaotic world? As believers, we live in the "already but not yet," which means that we are currently in the kingdom of God, though the kingdom has not reached its full expression. In other words, we are "already" in the kingdom of God, but we do "not yet" experience its full glory. In this Advent episode, David and Curtis look back at the challenging year and look for signs of the "coming Kingdom" so that listeners can "read the signs of the times"-- in a way that is both Biblical and hopeful – and live in the anticipation of God's justice, restoration, and glory. Show Notes: -YouTube: God Bless You': Residents Welcome Ukrainian Troops As They Advance Toward Kherson -YouTube: Ukrainian woman plays violin from apartment basement in Kharkiv -World Health Organization: COVAX delivers its 1 billionth COVID-19 vaccine dose -Forbes: How A Rock Star, A Physician-Legislator, And An Evangelical Senator Bonded To Help End The Global AIDS Pandemic: A Backstory -The Perception Gap: Americans tend to have a distorted understanding of people on the other side of the aisle.

Jesse Wiese robbed a bank and spent eight-and-a-half years in prison. After he served his time, he experienced the challenges of reentering society. He joined the Prison Fellowship, graduating from law school, and is now the vice president of program design and evaluation at Prison Fellowship. Now he spends his time attempting to help fellow imprisoned people flourish after serving time in prison. In this episode, Jesse shares his remarkable journey from bank robber to attorney, while David and Curtis discuss the church's proper spiritual approach to criminal justice, prison reform, criminal justice reform, and the difference between justice and vengeance. Show Notes: -Visiting Prisoners in Jesus' Day: Helping detained people was a shocking calling in the first century by David Stubbs in Christianity Today. -The Sentencing Project: The Sentencing Project advocates for effective and humane responses to crime that minimize imprisonment and criminalization of youth and adults by promoting racial, ethnic, economic, and gender justice. -Locked Out: Voices from America's Second Prison by Jesse Wiese (Editor): Interviews with former prisoners as they relate the ongoing consequences of incarceration long after their debt to society has been paid. -Matthew 25:31-40: The Scripture which includes, "I was in prison and you came to visit me." -Prison Fellowship: Founded in 1976, Prison Fellowship® exists to serve all those affected by crime and incarceration and to see lives and communities restored in and out of prison. -After Life: My Journey from Incarceration to Freedom Hardcover by Alice Marie Johnson (author), Kim Kardashian (foreword), and Nancy French (collaborator): The true story of the woman whose life sentence for non-violent drug trafficking was commuted by President Donald Trump thanks to the efforts of Kim Kardashian West. Hosts: David French and Curtis Chang Producer: Victoria Holmes

We toss around words like "conservative" and "progressive" without really understanding – or agreeing on – the meaning of these terms. This week, David and Curtis discuss how these labels simply don't work when applied across both theology and politics. How is the equivocation surrounding these terms misleading and therefore damaging to Christian discourse? Can politics be used as a proxy for faithfulness? If so, when? Join David and Curtis as they dive deeper into the word "progressive" and "conservative" and attempt to provide clarity on this common, important conversational terminology. Show Notes: Check out Curtis's course on the theology of institutions, called God's Purpose for Your Organizational Life (free to Good Faith listeners). Sign up for David's French Press newsletter Follow Curtis' work at RedeemingBabel.org

This week David and Curtis are joined by Eric Costanzo, a Southern Baptist pastor from Tulsa, Oklahoma who has led his own congregation in the practice of welcoming refugees and immigrants in their community. Eric is also the co-author of the book "Inalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save the American Church". Join us for this challenging discussion that, based on the number of times it's mentioned in scripture (plus Jesus' own experience as a displaced refugee), is an issue near to God's own heart. -The Story Behind DeSantis's Migrant Flights to Martha's Vineyard (New York Times) -Inalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save the American Church by Eric Costanzo, Daniel Yang, and Matthew Soerens -"I Was a Stranger…" 40 Days of Scripture and Prayer - Bible App Reading Plan -Evangelical Immigration Table -Rising Village refugee initiative Sign up for David's French Press newsletter Follow Curtis' work at RedeemingBabel.org Produced by Kris Carter

There is no shortage of punditry, analysis and Monday morning quarterbacking about this week's midterm elections, including David's own work at the Dispatch. In this podcast, however, David and Curtis try to take a slightly broader (dare we say higher?) view, to ask not only the raw political questions, but also the broader questions about what this election might be signaling for our country, our culture, and our church. What are the signs we should be paying attention to, and how should we as Christians be thinking, praying and responding to them? Sign up for David's French Press newsletter Follow Curtis' work at RedeemingBabel.org Produced by Kris Carter

Episode 51 - Does Jesus Need an Ad Campaign? with Jason Vanderground If you watch any sports on television you may have seen one of the edgy, black & white ads from the "He Gets Us" campaign. Designed to introduce Jesus to a culture that is actually quite intrigued by him, this campaign has created both curiosity and questions. We are excited to be joined this week by one of the chief architects of the campaign, Jason Vanderground. Join us for this excellent conversation about the campaign itself, the broader theological questions at play, and even the role of advertising as a tool of evangelism. Show Notes: -He Gets Us campaign Video Ads: -The Rebel -The Birth -Outrage -The Influencer -Dinner Party -He Gets Us campaign - About Us Sign up for David's French Press newsletter Follow Curtis' work at RedeemingBabel.org Produced by Kris Carter