State of Belief
A Grave and Growing Threat to our Democracy
I recently saw a Youtube interview with a man who claimed Kamala Harris’ debate performance was enhanced by demonic spirits. He made other equally outlandish claims, and ordinarily, I would have rolled my eyes and moved on – but the man’s name, Lance Wallnau, had featured prominently in a chilling interview with Dr. Matthew D. Taylor, a leading religion scholar, we had just recorded for The State of Belief.
Dr. Taylor presents reams of evidence in his thoroughly-researched new book, The Violent Take It By Force: The Christian Movement Threatening Our Democracy, that a well-organized, decentralized movement called the New Apostolic Reformation is preparing right now for the kind of spiritual warfare that the January 6th insurrection only hinted at. And government is only one of the “seven mountains” self-proclaimed prophet Wallnau (and many like him) preach must be dominated by Christians with their specific beliefs.
Dr. Taylor comes from an evangelical background, and really understands the kind of argument that works with the millions of Americans who identify as evangelical, Pentecostal and charismatic. And host Paul Brandeis Raushenbush asks all the questions I think you’d want to ask if you had some face time with this brilliant, self-described “egghead” who nonetheless feels called to sound the alarm about this grave and growing threat.
Don’t listen to this interview before going to sleep. But do listen to it, read Dr. Taylor’s book, and heed his advice to engage in conversations across ideological lines now, and prepare to defend our democracy soon.
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Hear this week’s episode below:
Transcript
What the Separation of Church and State Means Today with Rev. Dr. Randall Balmer
Rev. Dr. Randall Balmer joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss his latest book, "America's Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State", about a foundational – and increasingly endangered – American principle. He highlights the historical roots of this separation, the modern threat of religious majoritarianism, and the need for courageous, hopeful action to protect true religious freedom.
"Courage is the New Currency": Skye Perryman and Democracy Forward
Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush talks with Democracy Forward President Skye Perryman about the organization's successful court challenges to unconstitutional administration actions. Paul also talks with Rev. Rachel Griffin-Allison, Senior Pastor at Oak Lawn United Methodist Church in Dallas.
Ye Gods: Scott Carter's Journey from Comedy to Spiritual Exploration
Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes Scott Carter, the creator, executive producer, and host of the "Ye Gods" podcast. Scott explores faith, beliefs, and values with a diverse list of interesting guests and no judgement and no agenda.