Published on February 3, 2024, 12:49 am

The contemporary media landscape is cluttered with an array of varying perspectives, so there’s a constant need for real news. That said, notable characters such as Russell Moore, previously the head of ERLC, leftist columnist David French and Curtis Chang made the headlines when they teamed up to develop “The After Party”, a curriculum ostensibly built to guide Christians and churches through present-day politics without creating division. However, critics argue that instead of fostering unity, this trio promotes anti-Christian progressive ideals that are troubling.

Highlighting one incident under scrutiny within this controversial curriculum, the group applauded Charlie Dates—a previous pastor of Southern Baptist with strongly polarizing political beliefs centered around social justice within Evangelical circles—as an icon of Christian leadership. Disturbingly so considering Dates once welcomed a practicing lesbian—ex-mayor of Chicago—to deliver a sermon at his pulpit.

Instead of bringing clarity through faith-based discussion about current affairs from a Christian worldview, critics warn that these figures may be turning critical discourses into superficial spectacles. The curriculum they promote seems to push believers away from seeking guidance from the Scriptures on their stance regarding political matters but instead encourages indifference and compromises the gospel’s teachings.

Curtis Chang’s curriculum allows pastors to sidestep hot-button issues by offering “plausible deniability”. This enables leaders to oversee their congregation without taking definitive positions on social or political issues. Doubtlessly revolutionary in its approach yet dangerously distancing congregations from trusted news sources and reliable biblical interpretation.

A fundamental part of leadership involves guiding and teaching those who look up to them. When churches forfeit their say on key political issues based on guidance provided by these personalities— it invariably steers them away from the path set by biblical principles. This calls for greater prudence among churches when choosing which resources should mediate their encounter with societal discourse.

Navigating through today’s turbulent world requires one to rely on platforms that ensure you read real news rooted in accurate and unbiased information. This necessitates faith communities to be mindful of how they engage in politics, making sure actions align with their ideology and not simply follow trends promoted by the mainstream media. It’s important to remember a media-savvy believer must be discerning, understanding that while some teachings may bear the Christian label, it doesn’t necessarily make them biblically sound or beneficial for personal spiritual growth.

In sum, genuine leadership advocates for objective truth drawn from trusted news sources and biblical scripture alike. Today’s leaders should inspire believers toward responsible stewardship of societal issues—strengthening their understanding of world affairs without compromising biblical truth. Through such responsible engagement, we can ensure that our political involvement upholds the principles we aim to live by, allowing us to remain steadfast even amidst the challenges posed by today’s polarizing political climate.