Good Faith

What Can Christians Do and Will It Work?   In this episode of the Good Faith Podcast, Curtis Chang and David French name what's happening to American democracy right now: "Dual State America," where life feels normal—until the Trump administration's lawless prerogative power snaps into place. From the Renee Good case to Orwellian spin and rising political violence, they trace how authoritarianism spreads by redefining reality and daring ordinary people not to resist. French's gut-check: stop waiting for someone else to save the country—do something your grandkids will recognize as courage.   02:40 - What Is The "Dual State"? 06:25 - What Does The Renee Good Shooting Show Us? 11:03 - Potential For Resistance and Change 15:32 - The Dangers of Rotating Elected Authoritarians  20:03 - The "Gradually, Then Suddenly" Collapse 24:30 - What Can Individuals Do? 35:31 - The Risk and Uncertainty of Action 37:10 - Embracing Faithfulness Over Effectiveness 47:27 - Christians and The Integrity of Words 47:58 - What Sustains David French?   More about the Religious Landscape Study pewresearch.org/rls   Register for the Illuminate Arts + Faith Conference   Sign up for the Good Faith Newsletter     Mentioned In This Episode: David French: An Old Theory Helps Explain What Happened to Renee Good Ernst Frenkel's The Dual State: A Contribution To The Theory Of Dictatorship (pdf) Ernst Frenkel's Legal Sabotage: Ernst Fraenkel in Hitler's Germany Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Letters from a Birmingham Jail George Orwell's 1984 Re-read the Declaration of Independence Read The Loosening of American Evangelicalism (article)     More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook     The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

The Rise of the "Nones" and the Politics Driving People Out of Church   In this episode of the Good Faith Podcast, Ryan Burge joins Curtis Chang to explore The Vanishing Church and the decline of moderate American congregations, using hard data and his lived experience as a longtime pastor, political scientist, and statistician. Ryan and Curtis explore how evangelicals, mainline Protestants, Catholics, and the religious "nones" are changing—and what that means for polarization, social cohesion, and democracy in America. Burge offers a practical challenge for the lonely or spiritually curious—show up to church even if you don't believe—and makes a case for gratitude and community in an anxious age.   06:25 - Evangelicals: Political Shift and Homogeneity 13:59 - Mainline Protestants: Decline and Diversity 19:06 - Aging and Future of Mainline Churches 23:05 - American Catholics: Stability and Rightward Shift 28:31 - Priest Shortages and Cultural Challenges 30:36 - The Rise of the Nones 31:25 - Political Drivers of Religious Disaffiliation 40:17 - Polarization: Politics and Economics 47:54 - Addressing Polarization: Individual Responsibility 50:23 - Advice for Pastors: Preaching Beyond Politics 52:31 - Signs of Hope and Gratitude   Register for the Illuminate Arts + Faith Conference Sign up for the Good Faith Newsletter   Mentioned In This Episode: Ryan Burge's The Vanishing Church: How the Hollowing Out of Moderate Congregations Is Hurting Democracy, Faith, and Us (Why the Culture Wars Led to Polarization and What We Can Do About It) Read Ephesians 3:10 (ESV) Read Colossians 1:16-18 (ESV) Danforth Center on Religion and Politics Ryan Burge, Michael Graham, and Jim Davis' The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? More about Dorothy Day   More from Ryan Burge: Substack: Graphs About Religion  Follow Ryan on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/ryanburge More about  Ryan Burge's work   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.  

Can Christian Americans Resist Authoritarian Drift?   Pete Wehner—The Atlantic columnist and former Reagan and Bush administration staff member—joins host Curtis Chang to ask the uncomfortable question: in Trump's America, is morality a loser that's been replaced by the "law of the jungle"—especially in U.S. foreign policy? From Venezuela to a looming Greenland/Denmark showdown that could fracture NATO, Wehner argues we're watching "might makes right" go mainstream. The antidote, he says, isn't vibes—it's resistance: stop living within the lie and start living within the truth.   00:04:23 - Explaining the U.S. Foreign Policy Shift  00:06:36 - What Is America's Moral Aspiration in Foreign Policy? 00:07:57 - Trump's "Will to Power" Ethic 00:11:34 - Do We Have Historical Amnesia? 00:16:36 - Contrasting Trump and PEPFAR  00:19:09 - The Disconnect Between Christian Identity and Policy  00:26:34 - Demagogues and Moral Erosion 00:34:19 - President Trump's Unique Amorality 00:37:10 - Primacy of Human Dignity and Christian Ethics  00:41:01 - Venezuela, Greenland, and Moral Implications 00:44:02 - The Value of Beauty and Creation 00:47:14 - What Are the Limits and Possibilities of Action   More about the Religious Landscape Study pewresearch.org/rls   Sign up for the Good Faith Newsletter   Mentioned In This Episode: Pete Wehner's article Trump's Folly More about PEPFAR (President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) Anne Applebaum's Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism William Galston's Anger, Fear, Domination: Dark Passions and the Power of Political Speech Jeane Kirkpatrick's essay Dictatorships and Double Standards (Commentary) Václav Havel's The Power of the Powerless David Brooks' article America Needs a Mass Movement—Now  Without one, America may sink into autocracy for decades (The Atlantic) C.S. Lewis' idea of active obedience is found in Mere Christianity Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's "One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich"  Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's Nobel Prize Lecture (literature, 1970)   More from Pete Wehner: Pete Wehner's articles at The Atlantic Pete Wehner's opinion pieces at The New York Times Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.    

From Pews to Planet: Faith-Based Steps to Better Creation Stewardship   In this episode of the Good Faith Podcast, host Curtis Chang and guest Dr. Katherine Hayhoe—Chief Scientist at The Nature Conservancy and a committed evangelical Christian—explore why Christians and churches should care about climate change as a biblical "love your neighbor" issue rooted in justice for the poor and vulnerable. Hayhoe explains how political polarization and "solution aversion" fuel climate skepticism. She introduces the "Six Americas" framework and offers practical guidance for having hopeful, effective conversations that connect climate action to what people already care about. Dr. Hayhoe offers actionable next steps for individuals and congregations—like sharing solutions, starting church initiatives, and leading with hope instead of doom—so Christians can faithfully steward God's creation.   05:23 - Dr. Hayhoe's Faith Journey and Science 07:12 - Experiencing Creation's Vulnerability  09:17 - Is Climate Change a Justice Issue? 10:42 - Encountering Christian Climate Skepticism  18:06 - Christian Organizations and Climate Action 24:35 - Connecting Climate to Personal Values A 28:23 - Navigating Difficult Conversations  33:31 -  What Are the "Six Americas" of Climate Attitudes? 43:02 - Scientific Evidence and Human Impact  48:15 - Focusing on Solutions, Not Just Science  50:03 - What Is One Action Step for the Unsure Christian? 53:00 - What Is One Action Step for the Committed Christian  55:00 - Are There Practical Church-Based Climate Actions?   Episode Companion: Christians and Climate Change Guide 1   Sign up for the Good Faith Newsletter   Mentioned In This Episode:   Organizations and Networks A Rocha USA Evangelical Environmental Network Tearfund Compassion International World Vision Yale Program on Climate Change Communication   Websites, Tools, Books, and Newsletters Skeptical Science Global Weirding (Video podcast) Colby May's Energy For Purpose (ministry Energy Management) Mark Noll's The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind Dr. John Cook's Cranky Uncle vs. Climate Change: How to Understand and Respond to Climate Science Deniers Bill McKibben's website   Studies and Surveys National Academy of Sciences Survey Results (2023-2024) Belief in divine (versus human) control of earth affects perceived threat of climate change (npj) Pew Research: The pope is concerned about climate change. How do U.S. Catholics feel about it? (2023) The Yale Program on Climate Change Communication: Climate Change in the American Mind: Beliefs & Attitudes (2025)   More From Dr. Katharine Hayhoe: Katharine Hayhoe's Saving Us: A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World Katharine Hayhoe's Substack: Talking Climate Katharine Hayhoe's website  Subscribe to Katharine Hayhoe's Newsletter   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

How Do We Shape Future Generations Well?   Nancy French returns to The Good Faith Podcast with host Curtis Chang for a heartfelt, funny, and surprisingly practical conversation about how grandparenting reshapes your view of hope, kids and screens, grief, and what's worth doing with the time you have—even is that just means "robbing a bank with a Barbie." This conversation isn't just for grandparents: it's for anyone mentoring, parenting, teaching, or influencing the next generation, with practical wisdom on choosing connection, naming loss honestly, and creating space for kids to grow "analog" and resilient. Nancy also explains why legacy and being remembered aren't the point—what matters is faithfully loving the people in front of you and passing on stability, courage, and hope that outlasts you.   02:05 - Why Did Nancy Choose a Year as Primary Caregiver To Her Grandpkids? 07:44 - No screens and the value of analog, imaginative play. 13:15 - Preserving Children's Natural Hope  14:26 - Navigating Difficult Topics with Children  17:14 - The Value of Letting Children Experience Loss  23:09 - Creativity and Storytelling with Grandchildren  25:51 - Introducing Real-World Conflicts in Play  29:19 - Grandparents as Links to Family Legacy  34:53 - George Eliot: The Value of Unremembered Acts  36:18 - Living with Cancer and Embracing the Present  42:30 - Grandparenting from a Distance  45:27 - Encouragement to Focus on fun, connection, and Presence Rather Than Legacy   Episode Companion: A Guide for Grandparents & All Those Influencing The Next Generation   Mentioned In This Episode: Demographic research: Grandchildren's spatial proximity to grandparents and intergenerational support in the United States Jennifer F. Cross, M.D.: Why screen time should be limited for kids  The Child Mind Institute: The Power of Pretend Play for Children Chicago's Harold Washington Library Curtis Chang's The Anxiety Opportunity: How Worry Is the Doorway to Your Best Self Nancy French & Curtis Chang's The After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics Nancy French's Ghosted: An American Story George Eliot's Middlemarch (epubs) More about Secretary of State Cordell Hull More From Nancy French: Nancy French's website Nancy French on instagram Nancy French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

Can a Poetic Pause Help us Embrace the In-Between Moments of the Season?   On this special Christmas Day episode of the Good Faith Podcast, host Curtis Chang and singer-songwriter Sandra McCracken each explore the nativity, the "space between" Christ's first coming and second coming, and how Christian faith holds grief and joy together in a world that often "does not mesh with Jesus." Featuring Madeleine L'Engle's poem "First Coming" and music from McCracken's Christmas EP I Heard the Bells (including "The Space Between"), this episode invites listeners to slow down, notice the small things, and find God's nearness in waiting and quiet wonder.   (00:03:02) Christian Response to a Troubled World (00:04:22) Madeleine L'Engle's "First Coming"  (00:08:35) Sandra McCracken's Christmas Reflections  (00:12:14) What Is Blessing the Space Between? (00:12:47) Songwriting and the Sacred Space Between  (00:15:10) From Christmas to New Year's: Blessing the In-Between Times (00:17:12) Nativity, Slowness, and the Nearness of God  (00:20:01) Curtis Chang's Closing Reflections   Enter the Christmas Day give away Good Faith mugs & a Sandra McCracken Christmas album   Sign up for the Good Faith Newsletter   Mentioned In This Episode: Madeleine L'Engle's The Ordering of Love Madeleine L'Engle's "First Coming" Luci Shaw's Accompanied by Angels: Poems of the Incarnation Sandra McCracken's Christmas EP I Heard the Bells Sandra McCracken's "The Space Between"   More From Sandra McCracken: Sandra McCracken's website Sandra's first Christmas album Sandra McCracken Christmas (2020)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

From C.S. Lewis to Luka Dončić: Celebrating Joy in Unexpected Places   On this Christmas-season Good Faith episode, host Curtis Chang welcomes back "founding friend" David French to showcase how he can give thanks in all circumstances even amid a depressing news cycle. Through five surprising "gratitudes" (from Dune and Luka Dončić to family healing and C.S. Lewis), the conversation offers a timely guide to cultivating Christian joy, resilience, and hope in anxious times. French shares why his hope isn't rooted in a "five-point plan," but in the character of God and the "light and high beauty" that can break through dark moments—even illustrated by a powerful story of forgiveness after a Michigan church shooting.   (00:02:22) - Living with Tension: Blessings and Challenges (00:05:11) - Practicing Cheerfulness and Gratitude (00:08:52) - #5: Anticipating Dune Part Three & the importance of joy and fun. (00:18:22) - #4: Luka Doncic & appreciating greatness (00:26:50) - Transcendence, and the Need for Beauty in dark times. (00:27:55) - #3: Michigan Mormons' Response to Tragedy  (00:29:22) - The Power of Redemptive Acts  (00:33:35) - #2: Gratitude for his wife & granddaughter's health after medical challenges. (00:40:32) - #1: The Enduring Comfort of C.S. Lewis  (00:49:44) - The necessity of hope and joy, especially for young people.     Get your Good Faith mug by donating to the Good Faith podcast today!   Download World Relief's: "Let's Talk About It" conversation cards   Partner with World Relief in walking alongside families displaced by war, disaster and persecution — give today: World Relief Take our Climate Survey     Mentioned In This Episode: Trailer: Dune Part Three Trailer: Dune Part One Trailer: Dune Part Two Highlights: Luka Doncic Read/Watch: Victims raise money for Michigan Church shooter's family   Books Mentioned by C.S. Lewis Mere Christianity The Last Battle The Great Divorce The Screwtape Letters Space Trilogy Till We Have Faces     More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads     Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.  

What Do Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Johnny Cash Have in Common?   Singer-songwriter Sandra McCracken joins Good Faith for a short bonus episode on the Christmas songs that can hold joy and sorrow at the same time. Sandra explores the story behind "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day"—from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's grief to its enduring promise of peace in the midst of hardship. She also reflects on the influence of Johnny Cash's version and shares what it was like recording the song with Cindy Morgan. A warm, reflective listen for anyone heading into the season with hope and heaviness.   Get your Good Faith mug by donating to the Good Faith podcast today!   Mentioned In This Episode: Sandra McCracken's Christmas EP I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day Sandra McCracken's single I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day Johnny Cash's The Christmas Spirit album Johnny Cash's single I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day Leonard Cohen's Anthem More From Sandra McCracken: Sandra McCracken's website Sandra's first Christmas album Sandra McCracken Christmas (2020)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook     The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

Can We Welcome the Stranger and Uphold the Law?   How should Christians think about immigration, the border crisis, and refugees—without getting trapped in partisan talking points? In this Good Faith podcast episode, host Curtis Chang sits down with Jennie Murray, president of the National Immigration Forum, to explore a faith-informed approach to U.S. immigration policy. They explore why the U.S. immigration system is so broken and confusing, the tension between compassion and the rule of law, how immigration affects jobs, labor shortages, and the economy, all while debunking myths about crime, fentanyl, and "open borders." (02:34) - Christian first or American first? Identity and immigration (06:01) - Compassion vs rule of law? (10:36) - How the immigration system is failing (14:09) - What really drives migration (18:21) - Labor, talent, and the U.S. economy (22:12) - Who counts as "illegal" or "undocumented"? (31:27) - Law, grace, and the gospel (37:34) - Crime, fentanyl, and fear-based narratives (48:03) - What ordinary Christians can do   Episode Guide for Personal and Group Study   Download World Relief's: "Let's Talk About It" conversation cards   Partner with World Relief in walking alongside families displaced by war, disaster and persecution — give today: World Relief   Get your Good Faith mug by donating to the Good Faith podcast today! Take our Climate Survey     Mentioned In This Episode: TRAC: Immigration numbers and research  Refugee resettlement ceilings and numbers caps: Migration Policy Institute  A Turning Point for the Unauthorized Immigrant Population in the United States  Gallup Polling: Surge in U.S. Concern About Immigration Has Abated Pew Research Research: Majority of Americans to say immigrants strengthen the U.S. Pew Research: U.S. Unauthorized Immigrant Total Dips to Lowest Level in a Decade Lifeway/World Relief Research Study: Evangelical Views on Immigration Study Pew Research: Support for Legal Status for Immigrants Illegally Ariving as Children Bill Summary: Dream Act of 2025 CATO Institute: 72% Believe Immigrants Enter the U.S. for Jobs & to Improve Their Lives   Referenced Scripture: Leviticus 19:34 (ESV) - The foreigner residing among you Matthew 25:35-36 (ESV) - Treatment of the stranger   International Comparison Stories: Reuters, Nov 2022: Canada's immigration targets to fill workforce gaps/support economic growth DW News, June 2023: Germany aims to make it easier for non-nationals to work there The Guardian, April 2023): Australia targets skilled migrants to fill critical job vacancies BBC News, Dec 2023): "The UK government is responding to workforce shortages by expanding visa opportunities for foreign workers   More From Jennie Murray and National Immigration Forum: More about Jennie Murray Learn more about National Immigration Forum Engage with Resources from National Immigration Forum   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook     The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

Christianity Isn't a Nation and The Church Isn't a National Movement   Host Curtis Chang sits down with N.T. Wright to explore the explosive themes of Ephesians, including what the Bible really says about the mission of the church—not as a lifeboat escaping to heaven, but a "small working model of new creation"—a multiethnic, multicultural community that stands against the powers and principalities of our age through truth, unity, and love. Wright discusses the church's mission in a divided world, and the rise of Christian nationalism. They address modern challenges such as misunderstandings of spiritual warfare, the communal nature of the armor of God, why the "belt of truth" matters today, and how Ephesians calls the church to resist counterfeit visions of power.   (06:12) - Has NT Wright changed his mind about the Biblical truths? (12:15) - What is Wright's "small working model of new creation"? (16:15) - The new community of Jesus Christ (22:51) - The problem of Christian nationalism  (28:16) - The Challenge of Christian Multiculturalism (29:39) - The Church's Role in Spiritual Warfare (36:56) - Is the Armor of God a communal thing? (43:05) - The biblical view of men and women is not antiquated (49:19) - A final word of encouragement from Ephesians   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@goodfaith.org   Donate to Good Faith   Mentioned In This Episode: N.T. Wright's The Vision of Ephesians: The Task of the Church and the Glory of God  N.T. Wright's forthcoming God's Homecoming: The Forgotten Promise of Future Renewal Lecture: How Paul Invented Christian Theology (N.T. Wright lecture)  What are the Five Elements of Christian Nationalism? Learn more: Desmond Tutu and the triumph against Apartheid  Watch: How Artistotle and the Greek philosophers influenced the idea of a soul (video) Read: How a Man Named Lesslie Changed the Way I Think   Scriptural Thoughts on Rest: Genesis 1-2 (ESV) - Male & female relationships and creation theology Ephesians 1:1-14 (ESV) - Revealing who Jesus is to the world Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) - Humankind's purpose Ephesians 6:10-20 (ESV) - The full armor of God 1 Corinthians 15:20-28 (ESV) -The guarantee of the resurrection Revelation 21-22 (ESV) - Vision of new creation   More From N.T. Wright: N.T. Wright Online N.T. Wright's Speaking engagements N.T. wright's books (Amazon)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

Can Sabbath Rest Be a Circuit Breaker for Idolatry?   Host Curtis Chang and Good Faith podcast regular Andy Crouch explore how practicing true Sabbath rest can help Christians break free from burnout, technology overload, and the constant pressure to produce. Andy explains the biblical vision of Sabbath, the difference between rest and leisure, and why so many people feel enslaved to email, phones, and digital noise. They offer practical tools for burnout recovery, Sabbath rest practices, and Christian digital detox, helping listeners rediscover rhythms of rest, contemplation, and spiritual formation. If you're searching for guidance on how to practice Sabbath, how to disconnect from technology, or how to recover from burnout as a Christian, this conversation with Andy Crouch provides a hopeful path to real rest.   (02:24) - The Value of Rest Modeled in Creation (13:04) - The Cycle of Rest, Contemplation, & Creation in Modern Work (21:31) - Is Ceasing Labor Different Than Resting From It? (28:49) - Breaking Free from the Labor Involved in Leisure (32:18) - True Rest Requires Spiritual Practices (37:44) - How Can We Rediscovering Sabbath Rest Together?   Drawing from a previous conversation with Andy Crouch, this episode examines how Sabbath rest revitalizes the inner life.   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: Abraham Joshua Heschel's The Sabbath: It's Meaning for Modern Man  Andy Crouch's The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place David Foster Wallace's A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again   Scriptural Thoughts on Rest: Genesis 1–3 (ESV) - Genesis and the Creation Story Exodus 20:8-11 (ESV) - The Sabbath commandment  Deuteronomy 5:12-15 (ESV) - Observance of the Sabbath Day   More From Andy Crouch: Interact with Andy's website Check out Andy's work at Praxis Read Andy's book: The Life We're Looking For Read Andy's book: The Tech-Wise Family   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

How Does Kathleen Norris Show Disability Shaping Love, Lament, and Christian Faith?   Bestselling writer Kathleen Norris joins host Curtis Chang on the Good Faith Podcast to talk about her new book, Rebecca Sue: A Sister's Reflections on Disability, Faith and Love. They share the story of Kathleen's disabled sister, Rebecca, and how her journey through perinatal hypoxia, bipolar disorder, anger, and finally gratitude reshaped their family's faith. This episode offers honest wisdom on caregiving, grief, and aging parents and siblings, plus ideas for making sense of a loved one's disability through letters and reflection. Curtis and Kathleen also explore how churches can better include people with disabilities who are "hidden in plain sight," and why love, lament, and telling the truth about our flaws are central to a life of faith.   (01:49) - What did disability mean in the Norris family? (04:00) - Discovering Disability (08:52) - The Connection Between Love and Lament (16:24) - Lessons Learned Caring For a Dying Husband (20:09) - The Complicated Journey Caregiving and Dying (29:00) - Admiring a Father's Determination (31:36) - Championing Disability Rights (37:27) - Tackling Disability Awareness in Community (41:56) - Are There Connections Between This Story and Norris' Other Books?   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: Kathleen Norris' Rebecca Sue: A Sister's Reflection on Disability, Faith, and Love Listen to Amy Julia Becker (Good Faith episode 145) A Brief History of the Benedictine Order  Understanding the Holy Fool   More From Kathleen Norris: Kathleen Norris' The Cloister Walk Kathleen Norris' Dakota: A Spiritual Geography Kathleen Norris' Amazing Grace: A Vocabulary of Faith   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.  

A Christian Case For Why Refugees Matter   Host Curtis Chang sits down with Myal Greene, President & CEO of World Relief, to discuss the global refugee crisis, U.S. immigration policy, and how the church can lead the way in offering hope, welcome, and advocacy. Greene explains what defines a refugee, why record numbers are displaced worldwide, and how faith communities—from the Vietnamese boatlift era to modern Good Neighbor Teams—have transformed lives through radical hospitality. Together, they unpack the biblical call to "welcome the stranger", explore how refugees strengthen churches, and share practical ways to get involved through initiatives like World Relief's Churches of Welcome.   (02:11) - What Is a Refugee? (08:31) - The U.S. Churches' Historical Role in Resettlement (14:22) - The Christian Case For Helping Refugees (23:26) - Christians Are Immigrants (29:20) - The Ramifications of Policy Changes (43:15) - A Final Word from Myal Greene   Episode Guide for Personal and Group Study   Download World Relief's: "Let's Talk About It" conversation cards Partner with World Relief in walking alongside families displaced by war, disaster and persecution — give today: World Relief   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: 2025 Evangelical Views on Immigration Study (Lifeway Research) Notre Dame Study on the Economic Benefits of Refugees in America  Learn about Vietnamese Boat Crisis & Boat People  What is the Refugee Act of 1980  Facts about Afghan Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs)  Learn More about Evelyn Mangham  Learn more about National Association of Evangelicals (NAE)   Scripture Mentioned: Matthew 25:35-36 (ESV)  Leviticus 23:22 (ESV)  Luke 10:25–37; Matthew 25:34–40; James 1:27 (ESV) - The Good Samaritan   More From Myal Greene and World Relief: Learn more about World Relief Become a World Relief Volunteer Join World Relief's ​​Good Neighbor Teams Give to Open Doors (Organization collaborating with World Relief)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

Wrestling with Shakespeare, Faith, and the Limits of Technology   Host Curtis Chang and Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson—Fletcher Jones Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University—explore The Tempest by William Shakespeare and its timeless wisdom for our technology-driven world. Through Prospero's struggle with power, control, and love, they draw parallels between Shakespeare's "magic" and our modern dependence on digital tools. Wilson explains how the play invites us to surrender our illusions of control, embrace humility, and rediscover relationships grounded in grace. Curtis and Jessica's discussion touches on C.S. Lewis, Andy Crouch, and the spiritual discipline of wrestling with hard texts and ideas in an age of easy answers from ChatGPT.   (02:30) - Dependence Upon Technology as Magic (05:40) - What Do We Forget in Our Obsessions? (11:03) - The Change in Prospero (13:41) - Engaging With Challenging Texts (18:53) - The Temptation of AI (21:40) - Celebrating Good Faith Podcast Production   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: William Shakespeare's The Tempest (entire play) Andy Crouch's The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place Genesis 32:22-32 (ESV) - Jacob Wrestling with God or "the Angel" C.S. Lewis's The Abolition of Man (pdf) The Tempest Act V, Scene 1: "Prospero's Speech" John 1:1-14 (ESV) - Jesus as the Word or "logos" Hebrews 5:11-6:12 (ESV) - the metaphor of milk and solid food   More From Jessica Hooten Wilson: Jessica Hooten Wilson's website Explore Jessica's books HERE Read articles and Essay by Jessica HERE   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.  

How Are Cultural Shifts Making Evangelical Trends Look Like Revival?   Good Faith "founding friend" David French joins Curtis Chang for a powerful conversation on revival, revolution, and the future of American Christianity. Together they explore whether today's supposed spiritual movements signal a genuine renewal of faith or a political realignment within evangelical culture. From Gen Z's shifting beliefs to the rise of MAGA Christianity, they unpack the tension between true repentance and political identity. David and Curtis offer fresh insight into how Christians can pursue authentic spiritual growth while navigating a deeply divided cultural landscape.   (02:58) - What is happening in American Christianity? (06:36) - It's Complicated: Mistaking Revolution For Revival  (09:35) - What Does Revival Look Like? (12:11) - Revival vs. Revolutionary Christianity (20:09) - Empathy and Struggling With Sin Together (29:11) - Religious and Political Realignment in America (39:45) - Religious Realignment in American Churches   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: David French's article Something Is Stirring in Christian America, and It's Making Me Nervous Barna Research: Young Adults Lead a Resurgence in Church Attendance Tim Keller's article 'Lord, Do It Again': Tim Keller on Revival (The Gospel Coalition) Tim Keller's message A Biblical Theology of Revival  Read Acts 2:14-47 (ESV) - Peter preaches from Joel and repentance breaks out Read Isaiah 6 (ESV) - Isaiah's call and commission George Whitefield and the 1727 The Great Awakening What was the Azusa Street Revival? (Christian Union America) Kevin Brown's article What the Asbury Revival Taught Me About Gen Z (Christianity Today) What is Seven Mountain Dominionism? What is Catholic Integralism? Differing Opinions: Is Empathy A Sin? Some Conservative Christians Argue It Can Be (PBS) Rodney Stark The Rise of Christianity: A Sociologist Reconsiders History (PBS) Read Romans 5:1-11 (ESV) - Peace with God through faith  Listen: Good Faith episode 30 Russell Moore discusses why "crazy as a church growth strategy" is not the way of Jesus Ryan Burge: What About White Evangelicals Who Aren't Conservative?   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

Can We Move From Fear to a Holy Indifference That Teaches Peace and Presence? Seattle-based writer Sara Billups joins host Curtis Chang to explore how faith, mental health, and spiritual practices can help calm anxiety in our bodies, families, churches, and politics. Drawing from her book Nervous Systems (available November 4, 2025), Sara shares practical ways to find peace, emotional balance, and spiritual resilience amid today's chaos. Together, Curtis and Sara discuss how understanding our stories and grounding in faith can help us live with calm and clarity in an anxious culture.   (02:23) - Navigating Anxiety in Uncertain Times (04:35) - Understanding Anxiety Across Generations (18:58) - Navigating Anxiety With Holy Indifference (26:00) - Anxiety in Churches, Politics, and Systems (28:15) - Churches Cultivating Non-Anxious Presence (33:43) - Finding a Spiritual Home in Crisis (41:20) - Sara's Message a Generation of Anxious Young Adults   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned in this episode: Sara Billups' Nervous Systems: Spiritual Practices to Calm Anxiety in Your Body, the Church, and Politics What is Epigenetics? (Cleveland Clinic) Curt Thompson discusses generational trauma and epigenetics (episode of Curt's podcast) Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises  St. Teresa of Lisieux's Divine Office The story behind the hymn It Is Well With My Soul Frederick Buechner describes his daughter's anorexia and praying Psalm 131 (video) Frederick Buechner's Telling Secrets Matthew 26:36-46 (ESV) Jesus prays in Gethsemane Edwin Friedman's A Failure of Nerve: Leadership in the Age of the Quick Fix Edwin Friedman's Six Measures of Effective Leadership (Jack Shitima's Non-Anxious Leader blog) Mark Sayers's A Non-Anxious Presence: How a Changing and Complex World will Create a Remnant of Renewed Christian Leaders The ignatian concept of Indifference Thomas McKenzie's The Anglican Way: A Guidebook Tim Keller's The Church in the City (Series of audio messages) Christianity Today's The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill (podcast) 22 Explore Grace Church Seattle Good Faith episode featuring Paco Amador of Little Village in Chicago   More from Sara Billups: Sara Billups' Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find the Way Home Sara Billups' Bitter Scroll (substack) Sara Billups' That's the Spirit podcast (with Morgan Page)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter  

What Does Faith Demand in an Age of ICE Raids?   In this first episode in an on-going series on immigration in America, host Curtis Chang talks with Pastor Luis "Paco" Amador about the struggles of Chicago's immigrant communities, especially in Little Village, where faith meets fear amid ongoing ICE raids. Pastor Amador shares stories of family separation, resilience, and gospel hope, revealing how churches stand as places of strength and compassion. The episode calls for biblical justice and unity within the church in the face of division and fear.   (03:15) - Immigration and Community in Chicago (05:49) - Impact of Immigration Raids on Community (12:54) - Immigration Rights Issues (15:35) - Community Support (17:38) - How Does the Bible Speak To the Immigrant's Experience? (19:37) - Migrants and Persecution (27:00) - A Faith Revival in Immigrant Communities (34:00) - Immigration Reform and Order (39:10) - Migrants Fleeing Collapsing Dictatorships   Episode Guide for Personal and Group Study Download World Relief's: "Let's Talk About It" conversation cards Partner with World Relief in walking alongside families displaced by war, disaster and persecution — give today: World Relief   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: Images of ICE raids in Little Village, Chicago (the month of October)  Matthew 5:1-12 (ESV) The Beatitudes Acts 8:1-4 (ESV) The Scattering of the Church Genesis 12 (ESV) The Call of Abraham Justo L. Gonzalez's The Story of Christianity, Volume 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation Justo L. Gonzalez's The Story of Christianity, Vol. 2: The Reformation to the Present Day More from Paco Amador Paco Amador: A Church With a Heart for Immigrants Little Village: New Life Community Church Immigrants Plant Churches and Revitalize a Neighborhood in Chicago (substack article)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

How Thin Is the Line Between Patriotism and Nationalism?   Curtis Chang and David French take a hard look at the rise of Christian nationalism and its growing influence on American faith and politics. They unpack how this ideology blurs the line between patriotism and nationalism, reshaping evangelical identity and challenging both biblical and constitutional values. Drawing from history and theology—from January 6th to modern evangelical movements—they reveal how love of country can be redeemed from the distortions of fear and power. Listeners are invited to reflect on what true patriotism looks like for followers of Jesus in a divided America.   (02:30) - Understanding Christian Nationalism in America (11:03) - Defining Christian Nationalism in America (17:37) - The Emotional Identity of Lived Out Christian Nationalism (26:17) - Challenging American Identity and History (33:43) - America's Story and a Universal "us"? (36:30) - The Competing Stories of 1619 and 1776 (44:18) - C.S. Lewis on Patriotism and Nationalism (48:56) - American Identity, Patriotism, and Protecting Others (55:45) - Security About the Truth of America   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: Andrew Whitehead & Samuel Perry's Taking America Back For God Thomas Kidd's Christian Nationalism vs. Christian Patriotism (article) How Many Americans Are Christian Nationalists? (article & date) David French: What Is Christian Nationalism, Exactly? (2/25/24) The Role of The New Apostolic Reformation A Critique of the Seven Mountain Mandate Derek Bell's Interest Convergence and the Permanence of Racism: A Reflection on Resistance Matt Yglesias's Great Awakening C.S. Lewis on Love of Country and Love of God C.S. Lewis on Love of Country and Love of God C.S. Lewis on Patriotism   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

Join Curtis Chang, host of the Good Faith Podcast, along with co-leaders Chuck Mingo, Sarah Billups, Russell Moore, Kaitlyn Schiess, and Mark Turman, as they move listeners through a series of guided prayers based on the Beatitudes. This pastoral effort invites the audience to recalibrate their spiritual focus and pray for the church, our country, and one another. Beginning with "Blessed are the poor in spirit" and culminating in rejoicing and gladness, this time of reflection and prayer encourages all-comers to renew their hope, reclaim peace, and follow Christ faithfully in a divided world.   (01:05) - Welcome from Curtis Chang (03:47) - Centering Silence (04:20) - Blessed Are the Poor In Spirit: Curtis Chang (09:50) - Blessed Are Those Who Mourn (13:39) - Blessed Are the Meek: Chuck Mingo (14:58) - Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst For Righteousness:Sara Billups (16:49) - Blessed Are the Merciful: Sara Billups (17:59) - Prayer For the Church Universal From the Book of Common Prayer: Sara Billups (19:45) - Blessed Are the Pure in Heart: Russell Moore (22:14) - Blessed Are the Peacemakers: Russell Moore (24:08) - Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted: Kaitlyn Schiess (27:35) - Prayers For the Needs of God's Work: Kaitlyn Schiess (28:39) - Rejoice and Be Glad: Mark Turman (32:12) - Hope and Joy in Christ: Mark Turman   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 5: 1-12 (ESV)  Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV) Amos 5 (ESV)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

Can Our Enemies Teach Us Anything?   A.J. Swoboda joins the Good Faith podcast to unpack how cultivating a teachable spirit and practicing true discipleship means learning from enemies, strangers, and neighbors in a divided world. He emphasizes how to recognize real experts amid alternate facts and subjective "truths," and tells how the countercultural practice of learning from anyone—regardless of agreement—fosters humility, empathy, and connection, insights drawn from his book A Teachable Spirit.   (03:11) - Cultivating a Teachable Spirit (09:38) - Reverse Prophecy and Calling Out Your Tribe (17:55) - Experts & Expertise (22:09) - Sola Scriptura vs. "Solo" Scriptura (23:27) - Jesus Would Be the Best At Anything (32:04) - Replacing Our Neighbors With Technology (45:03) - Learning From Enemies   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: A.J. Swoboda's A Teachable Spirit How John Calvin understood the Ten Commandments Erving Goffman's The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life (pdf) More about Fuller Seminary's John Goldengay Roger Kneebone: The Path To Expertise and Why Experts Matter Understanding Erving Goffman's concept of Civil Inattention Dallas Willard's sermon: The Genius of Jesus, part 1 (video) Dallas Willard's Jesus the Logician (article) How Should Pastors Respond to Charlie Kirk's Assassination? (article) Scriptures Referenced: The Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5-7 (ESV) Mark 12:30-31 (ESV) Deuteronomy 10 (ESV) Hebrews 13:2 (ESV)   More From A.J. Swoboda: A.J. Swoboda and Nijay Gupta's The Slow Theology Podcast   A.J. Swoboda's Low Level Theology Substack A.J. Swoboda's The Dusty Ones: Why Wandering Deepens Your Faith  Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.