In the aftermath of Election 2016, evangelicals are experiencing an identity crisis. Voting tallies show Donald Trump’s win was greatly swayed by white evangelicals. Some Christians are rejoicing over the outcome, but many are disillusioned. Frustration stems from the vast discrepancies many see between the gospel and the stances and policies that Trump has been so vocal about during the campaign. But if a large portion of Trump’s support flows from self-proclaimed evangelicals, those who do not support Trump are left wondering if the evangelical label is one worth claiming or clarifying. In this episode of Persuasion, Erin Straza and Hannah Anderson raise two taboo topics in polite conversation: politics and religion. But such discussions are necessary to sort out the evangelical identity crisis many Christians are dealing with after the election. What options do #NeverTrump Christians have? Some have quickly distanced themselves from the evangelical label. Others are debating its true definition and seeking to redefine it in more palatable terms. As much as we may desire to disown the evangelical identity, it represents a part of the Christian body, one in great need of discipleship and understanding. Although it would be easier to walk away, Christians cannot simply deny their roots. A better way forward is to help the U.S. Church through its identity crisis and mature as Christ’s Bride.
Listen to Persuasion Episode 76:
More from Persuasion Episode 76:
How the faithful voted: A preliminary 2016 analysis, Pew Research by Gregory A. Smith & Jessica Martínez
4 Problems Associated with White Evangelical Support of Donald Trump, The Gospel Coalition by Thabiti Anyabwile
After Trump, Should Evangelical Christians Part Ways?, Christianity Today by Mark Galli
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