The Non-Prophets

The Non-Prophets 22.31.1 2023-08-02 featuring Cynthia Cynthia McDonald, Infidel 64, Timothy Bethel and Teo El ATeo New Florida standards teach students that some Black people benefited from slavery because it taught useful skills, NBC News, By Antonio Planas, June 20, 2023https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/new-florida-standards-teach-black-people-benefited-slavery-taught-usef-rcna95418A new Florida standard teaches students that some black people benefited from slavery because it taught useful skills. The stop woke act requires Florida teachers to promote the view that black people benefited from slavery because they could learn skills that they could use in life in order for them to actually earn a living.We could speculate all day about why they do this, but the most obvious reason seems to be they don't like the idea of dealing with the oppression of minorities, women, LGBTQ people anytime they're faced with one of these groups being oppressed.They have to try to soften it and make statements about how it's really not that bad and certainly not as bad as these groups are making out to be. They claim these groups just want attention and they want more rights than other groups.Religious people love to act like they're the most suppressed people on Earth all the time. Bemoaning the idea that they can't even go into a Target because they sell kids t-shirts with LGBTQ on it.The goal of the new Florida standards is to completely undermine and devalue the experiences of slaves and the lasting impact slavery has had on the African-American community. They hide behind words like truth, but the reality is they want to create a narrative that the American slavery of black people wasn't that bad, and that it actually helped a lot of black people.Unfortunately, we have this group of people who they don't really want to think about the issues. They're so preconditioned against this woke agenda, that the anti-woke act sounds great to them.If you believe this view that slaves were singing happily in the field and try to pretend this is some type of trade program where they were going to end up with a lot of money and a great life at the end, you are being patently dishonest. You can't get a personal benefit if you're a slave for life.The violent indiscriminate massacre of African-Americans in Tulsa, Atlanta, and DC is treated as if there was some sort of parity, as if black people were also actively perpetuating violence in these events. Hundreds of people died in these massacres, but we could not bother to even count them. It is irresponsible to ignore that the people who died were guilty only of being black, and this fact is being whitewashed.It is telling that out of sixteen names listed as “beneficiaries”, only four of them were confirmed to ever having been a slave. You would think that their “comprehensive and rigorous instruction on African American History” could at least come up with a better list. Anthony Johnson was used as an example of a slave that benefited, but in actuality he was never a slave he was an indentured servant. Another was born 20 years after slavery was abolished.William Allen, the lead revisionist on this rewrite of history used the good old “a few isolated expressions without context.” excuse to defend their work. Haven’t we all heard that one before? If that is the best they can do, then perhaps they should go back to school themselves. But not in Florida.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Arizona GOP lawmaker lashes out at 'god-haters' who criticized abortion ban prayerFriendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Apr 11, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/arizona-gop-lawmaker-lashes-out-atIn a recent ruling by the Arizona State Supreme Court, the state reverted to a Civil War-era law banning almost all abortions except in cases where the mother's life is at risk. This decision has ignited controversy, particularly due to the involvement of certain state senators who held a prayer circle, speaking in tongues on the Senate floor. This religious intrusion into government affairs has sparked outrage, with critics like Helen and Jason expressing frustration over the use of religious beliefs to shape policy, especially regarding women's reproductive rights.Senator Anthony Kern's leadership in the prayer circle has drawn criticism, particularly his labeling of dissenters as "God haters." This rhetoric echoes sentiments of persecution, deflecting from the real issue at hand: the erosion of reproductive rights and the intertwining of religion with governance. Infidel and Helen have raised concerns about the implications of such rhetoric, fearing its potential consequences for marginalized groups, including LGBTQ individuals.The decision to uphold such restrictive laws and the rhetoric used to defend them highlight deeper issues within the political landscape, where personal beliefs are wielded as tools of control. Infidel emphasizes the historical context, likening the situation to pre-Civil War ideologies, while Helen underscores the dangerous precedent of mixing religion with lawmaking. In the face of these challenges, there's a call to action for the current generation to push back against regressive policies and uphold the principles of democracy and secular governance.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.16.4 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Jason Friedman and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

This pastor's wedding nightThe Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Apr 03, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/this-pastors-wedding-night-joke-epitomizesPastor Josh Howerton of LakePoint Church in Texas is facing backlash after delivering a misguided attempt at humor during a recent sermon. His suggestion to future brides to unquestionably obey their husbands on their wedding night has drawn widespread criticism for perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes and minimizing female agency. While intended as a joke, Howerton's comments highlight deeper issues within Evangelical culture, including the normalization of patriarchal attitudes and the disregard for women's autonomy.This story, reported by Hemant Mehta in "The Friendly Atheist" on April 3rd, 2024, sparked a conversation about patriarchy and purity culture. The rhetoric perpetuated by Howerton reflects a mindset deeply rooted in patriarchal traditions, where women are expected to submit unquestionably to men. This toxic attitude extends beyond evangelical circles and affects people of all backgrounds, reinforcing harmful gender norms and undermining women's autonomy.Additionally, the conversation touched upon problematic statements made by figures like Jesse Lee Peterson, who has been known to dismiss women's sexual pleasure as unnatural. This further highlights the pervasive nature of patriarchal attitudes and the normalization of sexism within certain communities.The discussion also delved into the importance of comprehensive sex education, emphasizing consent, communication, and mutual pleasure. In contrast to the patriarchal views propagated by Howerton and others, healthy relationships are built on equality, respect, and open dialogue.Ultimately, the incident involving Pastor Howerton serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against patriarchal ideologies and the importance of promoting gender equality and autonomy in all aspects of society.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.16.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Jason Friedman and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Police shot Nakala Murry's young son. Now, she could lose custody of her kids.NPR, By Jonathan Franklin, on April 4, 2024https://www.npr.org/2024/04/05/1242953901/nakala-murry-custody-rights-aderrien-murry-shooting-mississippiThe transcript discusses a troubling case in Mississippi where a mother, Nakala Murray, faces the possibility of losing custody of her children after her 11-year-old son, Adarian Murray, was shot by a police officer in their home during a domestic incident. The Sunflower County officials accused Nakala of neglecting her children, alleging a history of domestic violence involving her ex-boyfriend, John Noden. Nichaela views the petition as harassment and retaliation for her lawsuit against the city of Indianola over her son's shooting. Attorney Carlos Mordeems deems the petition outlandish, emphasizing Nakala's status as a single mother. Despite no charges being filed against the officer involved, Nakala's custody battle unfolds amid ongoing legal proceedings.The discussion delves into the incident, highlighting that Adarian called 911 seeking help during the domestic incident but was shot by Sergeant Greg Capers upon exiting the room with his hands up. The participants express their dismay at Nakala potentially losing custody for being a victim of domestic abuse and commend her actions in a difficult situation. They criticize the system's targeting of marginalized communities, particularly people of color and single mothers, and discuss the lack of proper training and accountability within law enforcement.They argue that systemic issues, including poverty and lack of resources, contribute to higher crime rates in certain communities. The conversation extends to broader societal issues, such as hate crimes and racism, citing FBI statistics that show race-based bias as the primary motive for hate crimes. They emphasize the need for systemic change and accountability within law enforcement to address these injustices and prevent similar incidents in the future.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.16.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Jason Friedman and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

The Solar Eclipse Is the Super Bowl for ConspiracistsWIRED, By David Gilbert, on Apr 5, 2024https://www.wired.com/story/solar-eclipse-conspiracies/The conversation delved into the multifaceted world of conspiracy theories surrounding the total solar eclipse on April 8th. Infidel and the panel explored various theories, ranging from Masonic plots to bizarre beliefs about sacrifices at the Temple in Israel. The discussion highlighted how these theories intersect with religious fundamentalism, mental health issues, and the psychology of belief.Jason shared insights from a study linking belief in fake news to delusionality, dogmatism, and religious fundamentalism. He emphasized the role of skepticism in combating the tendency to believe in falsehoods, especially among those entrenched in fundamentalist ideologies. Helen discussed the psychological aspects of belief, noting how patterns and confirmation bias contribute to entrenched worldviews.Infidel provided a real-life example of the tragic consequences of extreme beliefs, citing the case of an influencer who fatally stabbed her partner and endangered her children due to apocalyptic fears tied to the eclipse. The panel underscored the dangers of unchecked beliefs leading to harmful actions, especially in the absence of adequate mental health support.The conversation also touched on how some exploit natural phenomena like eclipses to push political agendas or foster fear and control. They dissected the social conditioning that primes individuals to accept apocalyptic narratives and authoritarian messages, highlighting the pervasive influence of religious and political ideologies in shaping beliefs and behaviors.Ultimately, the discussion emphasized the need for critical thinking, skepticism, and mental health awareness to navigate the complex interplay of belief systems, social conditioning, and psychological factors. It underscored the importance of addressing underlying issues such as mental health disparities and religious fundamentalism to mitigate the harmful effects of conspiracy theories and extreme beliefs.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.16.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Jason Friedman and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

New Law Allowing Religion into Science Classrooms Is Dangerous for EveryoneScientific American, By Amanda L. Townley, on April 3, 2024https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/new-law-allowing-religion-into-science-classrooms-is-dangerous-for-everyone/#:~:text=But%20the%20legislative%20history%20of,in%20West%20Virginia's%20public%20schoolsThe discussion begins by dissecting the recent enactment of legislation in West Virginia, which permits teachers to address scientific theories, including evolution, in classrooms. This development prompts a multifaceted exploration of its ramifications, especially in terms of upholding the crucial tenet of separating religious influence from state-sponsored education.The conversation delves into the intriguing stance of a science educator who, despite embracing religious faith, advocates staunchly for the exclusion of religious teachings from the scientific curriculum. This nuanced perspective sparks a deeper examination of the potential discord between faith-based beliefs and empirically supported scientific principles.Participants in the discussion thoroughly analyze the implications of allowing religious ideology to permeate science education, highlighting the necessity of prioritizing evidence-based knowledge dissemination in science classrooms. They underscore the importance of nurturing an environment where students can explore and comprehend the complexities of the natural world without the imposition of religious dogma. Moreover, the conversation delves into the ethical considerations surrounding the intersection of faith and science, particularly concerning the integrity of educational practices and the preservation of intellectual freedom.The participants express concern over the motivations driving efforts to introduce religious teachings into science education, emphasizing the need to safeguard the integrity of scientific inquiry from ideological agendas. They emphasize the imperative of maintaining a clear demarcation between reality-based education and faith-based convictions, advocating for the protection of students' right to access accurate scientific information devoid of religious influence.Furthermore, the discussion touches upon the broader societal implications of blurring the boundaries between science and religion, urging policymakers to uphold secular educational standards while respecting individuals' religious beliefs.In conclusion, the conversation underscores the pivotal role of evidence-based reasoning in shaping educational policies, emphasizing the value of promoting critical thinking and scientific literacy among students. It underscores the importance of fostering an inclusive educational environment that respects diverse religious perspectives while upholding the primacy of scientific inquiry in advancing our understanding of the natural world.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.15.4 featuring Jimmy Jr, Eli Slack, Infidel64 and Scott DickieBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Richard Dawkins says Christianity is "fundamentally decent," but Islam "is not"The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta , on April 2, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/richard-dawkins-says-christianity?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=true In this segment, the discussion revolves around a recent statement made by Richard Dawkins, a renowned evolutionary biologist and atheist, regarding his views on Christianity and Islam. Dawkins, known for his criticism of religion, recently expressed a softened stance towards Christianity while disparaging Islam during a radio interview. His comments have sparked debate about the cultural aspects of Christianity and the perceived superiority of one religion over the other.The conversation delves into whether individuals, particularly in Western societies, unconsciously favor Christianity over Islam due to cultural familiarity. The panelists explore their personal experiences and the influence of Christian upbringing on language, customs, and societal norms. They discuss the complexities of Dawkins' statements, questioning whether his bias towards Christianity undermines his credibility as a critic of religious extremism.The discussion expands to scrutinize the fundamental principles of Christianity and Islam, highlighting historical atrocities committed in the name of religion. Infidel emphasizes the harmful aspects of both faiths, rejecting the notion that one is inherently better than the other. Scott advocates for skepticism in evaluating religious beliefs and actions, urging Dawkins to maintain consistency in his critiques. Eli expresses skepticism towards Dawkins' influence, emphasizing the importance of critical self-reflection and continuous inquiry.The segment concludes with a reflection on the value of challenging preconceived notions and the ongoing pursuit of skepticism in navigating religious discourse.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.15.3 featuring Jimmy Jr, Eli Slack, Infidel64 and Scott DickieBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Peru archbishop who sued 2 journalists over reports on abuses, financial corruption resigns earlyAP News, By BY NICOLE WINFIELD AND FRANKLIN BRICEÑO, on April 2, 2024https://apnews.com/article/vatican-sodalitium-peru-abuse-eguren-d6c3c253aa8218248910961bf8a3de4e In this segment, the discussion delves into yet another scandal involving child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, this time in Peru. The panelists express frustration at the apparent impunity enjoyed by the Church, which seems to shield abusers from legal consequences. They question why the Church isn't held to the same standards as other organizations when it comes to handling such serious allegations. The conversation highlights the long history of abuse within this particular congregation, going back to its founder, and criticizes the Church's lack of effective action in addressing these issues.The resignation of the archbishop of this congregation raises suspicions, as it comes amid ongoing allegations of abuse and a supposed Vatican-led effort to rehabilitate the group.The panelists express skepticism about the Church's motives, questioning whether their attempts at rehabilitation are merely attempts to salvage their public image. They discuss the actions taken by the Church, such as hiring an expert on child sexual abuse and conducting internal investigations, but doubt the authenticity of these efforts, viewing them as superficial attempts at damage control rather than genuine attempts at accountability.The conversation turns to the concept of rehabilitation within the Church and whether it is even possible or appropriate, given the severity of the offenses committed.Panelists express outrage at the idea of allowing known abusers to return to positions of authority within the Church, arguing that such actions only perpetuate the cycle of abuse and undermine the trust of parishioners. They call for a fundamental change in the Church's approach to handling abuse allegations, advocating for greater transparency, accountability, and involvement of law enforcement authorities.In conclusion, the panelists emphasize the need for both grassroots and top-down efforts to address the systemic issues of abuse within the Catholic Church. They stress the importance of holding the Church accountable for its actions and ensuring that survivors of abuse receive justice and support. Despite their skepticism about the Church's willingness to change, they remain hopeful that continued pressure and advocacy may eventually lead to meaningful reform within the institution.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.15.2 featuring Jimmy Jr, Eli Slack, Infidel64 and Scott DickieBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

MAGA Pastor Says ‘200 Bibles’ Set Ablaze Outside His Church on Easter MorningThe Daily Beast, By AJ McDougall, on March 31, 2024https://www.thedailybeast.com/maga-pastor-greg-locke-says-200-bibles-set-ablaze-outside-his-tennessee-church-on-easter-morning The discourse gravitated around an unsettling incident that unfolded, implicating Pastor Locke in a contentious episode where approximately 200 Bibles were purportedly set ablaze outside his church premises, intriguingly transpiring on Easter morning, a day of profound significance in Christian tradition.Pastor Greg Locke is a figure of considerable notoriety, recognized for his propensity to court controversy through a series of provocative actions, including but not limited to highly publicized book burnings and his vocal political endorsements often interwoven within the fabric of his sermons. His approach has sparked a maelstrom of both adulation and condemnation, polarizing public opinion along ideological fault lines.The panelists engaged in a multifaceted exploration, endeavoring to untangle the intricate strands of this perplexing narrative. Central to their discourse was the question of intent: did the conflagration of the Bibles represent a calculated publicity stunt orchestrated by Pastor Locke himself, a brazen bid to galvanize attention and stoke the embers of controversy? Alternatively, was it perhaps an act of retaliation launched against him, a manifestation of simmering dissent fueled by the reverberations of his divisive rhetoric?This discussion extended beyond the realm of mere conjecture, delving into the nuanced legal and ethical dimensions inherent in such a contentious scenario. The panelists grappled with the thorny issue of whether the burning of the Bibles could be construed as constituting an act of violence or potentially categorized as a hate crime, thereby prompting reflection on the broader societal implications of such actions.Within the discourse, divergent perspectives emerged, each offering a unique lens through which to interpret the events at hand. Some contended that Pastor Locke's penchant for controversy and his unyielding commitment to his beliefs rendered him a lightning rod for attention, suggesting that the conflagration of the Bibles might indeed be viewed as a calculated ploy to thrust himself into the spotlight once more. Others, however, adopted a more critical stance, highlighting the deleterious ramifications of Pastor Locke's rhetoric and its potential to inflame tensions and provoke hostility.Yet amidst this cacophony of voices, a common thread emerged: an acknowledgment of the imperative to address conflicts and disparities through constructive dialogue and peaceful means, rather than succumbing to the seductive allure of destructive measures. In the final analysis, the discussion underscored the profound complexity of the situation, emphasizing the need for nuanced reflection and empathetic engagement as we navigate the turbulent waters of contemporary discourse.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.15.1 featuring Jimmy Jr, Eli Slack, Infidel64 and Scott DickieBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Serial bigamist who posed as pastor had at least 10 wives he met in black churchesTexas Man Poses as Pastor, Sentenced for BigamyThe Christian Post, By By Leonardo Blair, on March 22, 2024https://www.christianpost.com/news/serial-bigamist-had-at-least-10-wives.html?utm_source=Daily&utm_campaign=Daily&utm_medium=newsletterThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.4 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Prayer, Bible lessons and a big red bus: How an Ohio group is bringing God to public schoolLifeWise Academy's Bible Classes in SchoolsNBC News, By By Mike Hixenbaugh, on March 25, 2024https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/lifewise-academy-public-school-christian-church-rcna142172The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli Slack and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

A Michigan commissioner wants to prevent Satanists from giving an invocationFriendly Atheist , By Hemant Mehta, on March 25, 2024Battle for the Pulpit: Satanists vs. Christianshttps://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/a-michigan-commissioner-wants-to?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=trueThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Erin Hawley: The Woman Arguing Against the Abortion PillHawley: Ranches to Roe BattleNew York Times/Yahoo News, By Elizabeth Dias and Abbie VanSickle, on March 26, 2024https://ca.news.yahoo.com/erin-hawley-woman-arguing-against-121736503.htmlThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen GreeneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Researchers say Christian leaders will embezzle an estimated $86 billion in 2024The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Mar 20, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/researchers-say-christian-leadersThe discussion delved into the issue of financial transparency and accountability within Christian organizations, particularly regarding the embezzlement of funds.Kelley Laughlin shed light on the alarming statistic that Christian leaders may embezzle over $80 billion annually by 2024, as reported by the Center for the Study of Global Christianity and the Trinity Foundation. This embezzlement includes practices like skimming from offering plates and diverting mission donations to personal expenses.The panelists highlighted the lack of financial oversight and transparency within religious institutions, emphasizing the need for routine audits, transparency measures, and consequences for illegal activities. They also discussed the pervasive influence of Christianity in American society, particularly in politics, and the challenges of holding religious organizations accountable due to societal norms and biases.Suggestions for addressing the issue included implementing stricter financial regulations, promoting transparency, and demanding accountability from religious institutions. Additionally, there were calls for reparations to congregations affected by financial mismanagement, including refunds or evidence of funds being used for their intended purposes.In a lighter tone, the panelists humorously proposed reparations in the form of amusement park trips and tangible improvements to church facilities, highlighting the long-standing issue of unfulfilled promises made to congregations for various projects.Overall, the conversation underscored the importance of financial integrity and accountability within religious institutions and called for greater scrutiny and regulation to prevent financial misconduct and protect congregational assets.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.13.4 featuring Jimmy Jr., Blatant Blatheist , Cynthia McDonald and Kelley LaughlinBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Former Hays County GOP leader sentenced to 410 years in prison for sexual abuse of children, child pornographyKVUE News, By Lauren Petterson, Jeff Bell , on March 11, 2024https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/bo-michael-dresner-sentencing/269-17fad9be-ddb4-4304-b956-fb3ba7bb7344In this segment, the hosts discuss a recent case involving a former GOP leader in Hayes County, Austin, who was sentenced to 410 years in prison for sexual assault of children and child pornography.They criticize the justice system for allowing the perpetrator to go unpunished for similar crimes in the early 2000s and failing to adequately investigate allegations made against him in 2012. The hosts express outrage at the leniency shown to the perpetrator, highlighting the systemic failures in protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly children, from offenders like him.They discuss the betrayal felt by the victims and the impact of the perpetrator's status as an elected official. They emphasize the need for holding politicians and religious leaders to higher standards and call for greater scrutiny and accountability in vetting individuals for positions of trust. The hosts also condemn the culture of tribalism in American politics, likening it to sports fandom, and stress the importance of addressing systemic issues to bring about real change.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.13.3 featuring Jimmy Jr., Blatant Blatheist , Cynthia McDonald and Kelley LaughlinBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

White Pastor Defends Slavery And Calls Martin Luther King Jr. A 'Non-Believer Who Misrepresented Christ'News One, By Zack Linly, on March 1, 2024https://newsone.com/5047878/john-macarthur-white-pastor-martin-luther-king-jr/In this segment, the discussion revolves around John MacArthur, a Christian pastor at Grace Community Church in California, who has garnered attention for his controversial views on race, slavery, and religious freedom. MacArthur criticized a group of Evangelical pastors for honoring Martin Luther King Jr. during Black History Month, labeling MLK as an unbeliever and accusing the pastors of succumbing to the "woke movement" and racial baiting. MacArthur's comments reflect a supremacist interpretation of Christianity, justifying racial disparities and advocating for slavery as part of Christianity's history. This narrative contrasts with attempts to whitewash MLK's legacy, portraying him as a colorblind figure, while MacArthur depicts him as a threat to white supremacy.MacArthur's interpretation of Christianity rationalizes bigotry by misusing biblical passages, such as citing the curse of Ham to justify racial disparities. His stance aligns with a history of controversial statements on race and slavery, reflecting a supremacist view emphasizing the subjugation of Black people. The discussion delves into the effectiveness of MLK's nonviolent approach compared to Malcolm X's more militant stance, highlighting how MLK's pacifism made him more acceptable to the American public at the time.The panelists discuss the deep-rooted segregation within Christianity, tracing it back to historical divisions enforced by white supremacy. They reference figures like Absalom Jones, who founded the AME Church due to racial exclusion within white-dominated churches. The conversation extends to systemic racism's pervasive influence in society and the responsibility to challenge such narratives through education and advocacy.Throughout the discussion, panelists express a commitment to challenging bigotry and promoting inclusivity within religious spaces. They emphasize the importance of education, compassion, and self-reflection in combating racism and dismantling unjust systems. Despite acknowledging the challenges and exhaustion in confronting systemic racism, they encourage continued efforts to push back against unfairness and inequality.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.13.2 featuring Jimmy Jr., Blatant Blatheist , Cynthia McDonald and Kelley LaughlinBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Jack Hibbs Says Critics Of Christian Nationalism Are 'Literal Cancers'Right Wing Watch, By Kyle Mantyla, on March 11, 2024https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/jack-hibbs-says-critics-of-christian-nationalism-are-literal-cancers/The panel addresses Jack Hibbs, a pastor who has made controversial remarks comparing critics of Christian nationalism to Nazis and socialists. Hibbs, known for his anti-LGBTQ+ stance and conspiracy theories, lacks understanding of politics and history, yet he was invited to deliver a prayer on the House floor by Secretary of State Mike Johnson. The panel questions the constitutionality and appropriateness of this invitation.Kelley highlights Hibbs' troubled relationship with history, citing his inaccurate claims about God's removal from American history in 1925 and other historical distortions. Despite Hibbs' lack of credibility, some followers believe his rhetoric, revealing a concerning trend of indoctrination and a disregard for truth.Cynthia underscores Hibbs' misuse of scripture to advance his narrative, exploiting religious indoctrination to garner followers. She points out the danger of blind allegiance to religious leaders like Hibbs, who twist scripture to fit their agenda.Blatant Blatheist discusses the broader societal factors contributing to Hibbs' influence, including indoctrination into religion, shortcomings in education, and the exploitation of fear. He emphasizes the need for critical thinking to challenge indoctrination and combat misinformation.In conclusion, the panel warns against unquestioningly accepting figures like Hibbs and underscores the importance of critical thinking, education, and challenging misinformation to resist harmful ideologies.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.13.1 featuring Jimmy Jr., Blatant Blatheist , Cynthia McDonald and Kelley LaughlinBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Iowa Republicans send 'religious freedom restoration' bill to governor's deskIowa Public Radio, By Katarina Sostaric, on March 1, 2024https://www.iowapublicradio.org/state-government-news/2024-03-01/iowa-republicans-send-religious-freedom-restoration-bill-to-governors-deskThe discussion revolves around the contentious issue of whether religions should be banned in light of recent events highlighting discriminatory practices under the guise of religious freedom. The proposed Religious Freedom Restoration Act in Iowa has sparked concerns that it could legalize discrimination against LGBTQ individuals under the pretext of protecting religious beliefs. Critics argue that such legislation distorts the concept of religious freedom, potentially infringing on civil rights and equality.Participants in the conversation express strong opinions regarding the perceived erosion of human rights in favor of religious beliefs. They decry the trend of prioritizing religious freedoms over individual rights, citing examples of discrimination in various sectors such as healthcare, employment, and education. There's a shared sentiment that these legislative efforts represent a dangerous trend towards theocracy and undermine the separation of church and state.The dialogue delves into the complexities of bigotry, acknowledging its existence but also highlighting its societal roots. Participants suggest that bigotry is often a learned behavior fueled by fear and scarcity, perpetuated by societal structures such as capitalism. They emphasize the importance of fostering critical thinking and empathy to combat bigotry rather than resorting to bans or prohibitions.While some express frustration with the persistence of discriminatory practices, others advocate for a more nuanced approach focused on education and dialogue. They argue that banning religion would be counterproductive and antithetical to principles of freedom and tolerance. Instead, they advocate for promoting secular values and encouraging rational discourse to address harmful beliefs and practices.Overall, the conversation reflects a deep concern for the protection of individual rights and the need to confront bigotry and discrimination in all its forms. While participants express frustration with the current state of affairs, they remain hopeful that through education, dialogue, and advocacy, progress can be made towards a more inclusive and equitable society.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.12.4 featuring Scott Dickie, Infidel64, Richard Allen and Jason FriedmanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

The owners of a Christian boarding school in Missouri are jailed and charged with kidnapping crimesAP News, By JIM SALTER, on March 4, 2024https://apnews.com/article/christian-boarding-school-missouri-owners-arrested-3ec27c8fc26d37108f4afe1199351084A heartfelt conversation centering on the disturbing events surrounding the arrest and charges brought against Larry and Carmen Musgraves, proprietors of ABM Ministries, a Christian boarding school in Missouri. The arrests were prompted by allegations of abuse and reports of children fleeing from the school. The participants express a range of emotions, from outrage and disgust to sadness and frustration, as they discuss the broader implications of trust placed in religious institutions and the lack of oversight that allowed such abuse to occur.Throughout the discussion, there is a palpable sense of indignation at the exploitation of vulnerable children under the guise of religious education. The participants lament the systemic failure that enabled these atrocities to persist, pointing to the need for stringent regulations and accountability measures to prevent future occurrences. They highlight the dangers of blind trust in religious authorities and advocate for transparent scrutiny and accountability in all educational institutions, regardless of religious affiliation.The conversation delves into the complexities of addressing abuse within religious contexts, acknowledging the challenges posed by entrenched power structures and cultural norms. Despite the distressing nature of the topic, there is a shared determination among the participants to confront the issue head-on and demand justice for the victims. Ultimately, the transcript serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to prioritize the safety and well-being of children in all educational settings, irrespective of religious beliefs.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.12.3 featuring Scott Dickie, Infidel64, Richard Allen and Jason FriedmanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Matt Schaefer Provides A Case Study In Christian NationalismRight Wing Watch, By Kyle Mantyla, on March 8, 2024https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/texas-state-rep-matt-schaefer-provides-a-case-study-in-christian-nationalism/In this discussion, the panel acknowledges that individuals have the right to their beliefs and the freedom to express them, but when those beliefs infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others, it becomes a problem. The concern is not just about the sincerity of the beliefs but the actions they inspire.There's a consensus among the panelists that the merging of religion and government, particularly in the form of Christian nationalism, poses a threat to individual liberties, democratic principles, and scientific progress. This merging creates a system where authoritarianism is reinforced by religious doctrine, leading to a society where dissent is suppressed and conformity to a specific belief system is enforced.The panel expresses concern about the normalization of Christian nationalism, suggesting that it has already gained significant traction in American society, particularly through the political landscape. The language and rhetoric used by politicians and media figures contribute to this normalization, making it seem more acceptable and mainstream.Overall, the panel emphasizes the importance of challenging and resisting extremist ideologies, regardless of the sincerity behind them. While individuals have the right to their beliefs, they also have a responsibility to ensure that those beliefs do not infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others or impede social progress.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.12.2 featuring Scott Dickie, Infidel64, Richard Allen and Jason FriedmanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.