In Conversation With... Caleb Campbell: Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbor
In this conversation, Greg Arthur and Pastor Caleb Campbell explore the complexities of Christian nationalism, its impact on the church, and the importance of peace building and unity. They discuss the origins of Christian nationalism, its ideological, tribal, and spiritual dimensions, and how it has influenced the behavior of church members. The conversation also addresses the narrative of persecution within American evangelicalism and the need for a more nuanced understanding of suffering and community engagement. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of embodying love and humility in interactions with those caught up in nationalist movements, advocating for a missional approach to reach and transform hearts.Episode TakeawaysChristian nationalism is a political ideology, tribal identity, and spiritual idolatry.The church must engage with Christian nationalists as missionaries, not adversaries.Persecution narratives in American evangelicalism often misinterpret discomfort as persecution.A healthy understanding of lament and grief is lacking in American evangelical culture.Patriotism should not supersede the call to love and serve others.The Leviathan metaphor illustrates the predatory nature of evil and its seductive power.Communities should act as embassies of reconciliation, embodying the way of Jesus.Disarming Leviathan involves creating spaces of safety, belonging, and purpose.The church's role is to represent those who suffer under unjust power.Engagement with those who hold different views should be rooted in love and humility.