Listen "Christianity is a movement, not a machine"
Episode Synopsis
Stu, Tim and Joel hosts dive into a discussion sparked by Stu's recent visit to Texas, where he observed the strong sense of identity, friendliness, and open expression of faith that characterises much of Texan culture. They compare this with Australian cultural values like egalitarianism and mateship, examining how national myths shape the way communities live and relate to one another.From there, the conversation explores how Christianity functions as a movement rather than a rigid institution—one that adapts to cultural contexts while maintaining universal principles such as love for neighbour, kindness, and human dignity. The hosts discuss how these principles have historically contributed to the flourishing of societies and continue to do so today, often through everyday people rather than powerful institutions.They touch on how Christians can thoughtfully engage in politics without being co-opted by partisan agendas, referencing thinkers like Christopher Watkin and historical figures like Dietrich Bonhoeffer to illustrate a balanced, gospel-centred approach. They finish with an encouragement from Stu to "get on the bus".00:00 "God, family, and state"10:28 Christianity and tolerance19:31 The influence of Christianity on Western Civilisation34:49 Christianity as a movement vs. institution46:56 Political engagement, Bonhoeffer, diagonalisation1:00:00 Get on the busDISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODEThe Years of Lyndon Johnson, by Robert CaroWe Are Repaganizing, by Louise PerryDominion, Tom HollandThe Book that Made Your World: How the Bible Created the Soul of Western Civilization, by Vishal Mangalwadi: Preston SprinkleMichael BirdRichard Dawkins says he's a cultural ChristianJan HusThe Quiet Revival: Gen Z leads rise in church attendanceBiblical Critical Theory, by Christopher WatkinCONTACT USShock Absorber Email: [email protected] Absorber Website: shockabsorber.com.auSoul Revival Shop: soulrevival.shopCheck out what else Soul Revival is up to here
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