Title: Confronting Christian Nationalism
Episode 23- Pastor Dr. Kevin Riggs
Peggy sits down with Pastor Dr. Kevin Riggs, the first repeat guest on Blue Lift and the senior pastor of Franklin Community Church in Tennessee.
Pastor Dr. Riggs explains that Christian nationalism is an ideology using religious symbols to gain political support, advocating for a fusion of American civil life with a specific brand of Christianity. He highlights the dangers of this ideology, including its potential to undermine democracy and promote discrimination. He also discusses the rise of Christian nationalism in the U.S., its influence on local politics, and the need for vigilance and action against its spread. He emphasizes the importance of religious freedom and the separation of church and state. We recommend a book by Mike Austin, a philosophy professor at Eastern Kentucky University, titled "American Christian Nationalism," which critiques Christian nationalism's impact on American values and democracy. We also discuss the Williamson County Homeless Alliance's efforts, including providing emergency shelter since January 1st and the need for donations to support these services.
Highlights:
Update on Tennessee's Execution Protocol (1:30)
Defining Christian Nationalism (4:05)
Historical Context and Critique of Christian Nationalism (7:46)
Dominionism and Its Implications (13:12)
Christian Nationalism and Democracy (41:35)
Personal and Faith-Based Responses to Christian Nationalism (52:26)
Mike Austin's Book on Christian Nationalism (1:11:57)
Book talk at The Franklin Library: January 30th at 6 pm! Support Pastor Kevin!
Today!- The Best Day of My Life by Kevin Riggs and Kevin Burns:
https://www.parnassusbooks.net/book/9798989906635
American Christian Nationalism by Michael Austin:
https://www.amazon.com/American-Christian-Nationalism-Neither-nor/dp/0802884350
Want to be on the show?
Email: PeggyKingsbury59@gmail.com
Join the Blue movement at www.blueliftpodcast.com
About Blue Lift and Peggy Kingsbury:
Peggy grew up in GA and attended the University of Georgia. With an undergraduate and a masters degree in Criminal Justice Peggy is keenly interested in how politics and public safety intersect. Peggy is also an entrepreneur, small business owner, and lover of the outdoors. Peggy became focused on politics in Tennessee when the supermajority legislature began making headlines for silencing voices, enacting laws targeting underrepresented people and refusing to listen to their constituents.
Join Peggy for BlueLift as she interviews influencers and candidates in Tennessee politics with a focus on Williamson County and middle Tennessee.
Find out more and follow along at www.blueliftpodcast.com
Produced by Jim McCarthy and ItsYourShow.co
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