There Is No Evangelical Church, LDS, And BYU Political Relationship With Jonathan Rauch

Key Concepts

• Jonathan Roush's book Cross Purposes
• Christianity's role in a constitutional government
• Compromise vs. Truth in politics and religion
• Marxism as a rival religion to Christianity
• The lack of a unified "Evangelical Church"
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' hierarchical structure and ability to mobilize

Political Commentary and Religious Discussion

Introduction

The discussion centers around Jonathan Roush's book, Cross Purposes, and his perspective on Christianity's role in American society and politics. Roush, a secular atheist Jew in a same-sex marriage, argues that Christianity is essential for a moral society that can sustain a constitutional government. The conversation explores the nuances of Roush's arguments, particularly his call for compromise, and contrasts them with the challenges posed by ideologies like Marxism.

Jonathan Roush's Perspective on Christianity

• Roush's Argument: Roush believes that a moral people are necessary for a constitutional government to function, echoing the views of the founding fathers. He sees Christianity as the source of this morality.
• BYU and President Oaks: Roush admires President Oaks' talk at the University of Virginia, where Oaks discussed how Americans should approach politics. Roush believes Oaks' approach is "exactly what is needed."
• Watered-Down Christianity: Roush argues that Christianity has been diluted by politics and secular culture, diminishing its authority.
• Definition of Christianity: When asked about the essence of Christianity, Roush quotes a Catholic theologian who defines it as "be not afraid," "be like Jesus Christ," and "forgive."
• Critique of Roush's Definition: The speakers argue that these principles, while important, are insufficient to define Christianity. They emphasize the core Christian narrative of Christ's atonement, death, and resurrection.

The Issue of Compromise

• Roush's Emphasis on Compromise: Roush's speech at BYU emphasized compromise, which the speakers find problematic.
• Limits of Compromise: The speakers argue that while political compromise is necessary, religious convictions, such as the family proclamation, are non-negotiable.
• Truth as a Higher Value: The speakers assert that truth is a higher value than compromise, especially in matters of religious conviction.

The Rise of Marxism

• Marxism as a Totalizing Worldview: The speakers note the rise of Marxist ideology in politics, which they describe as a totalizing worldview that does not compromise.
• Marxism and Power: They argue that Marxism, fused with postmodernism, is primarily concerned with acquiring power.
• Rival Religion: The speakers suggest that Marxism has become a rival religion to Christianity, seeking to supplant it.
• Roush's Blind Spot: They criticize Roush for not addressing the challenge posed by Marxism in his book. They argue that Marxism threatens not only Christianity but also the principles of the founding fathers, which Roush admires.

The Lack of a Unified Evangelical Church

• Roush's Project: Roush aims to persuade American Christians to return to the basics of their faith and avoid political dilution.
• Challenges in Mobilizing Evangelicals: The speakers argue that it is difficult to mobilize evangelicals due to the lack of a unified structure.
• Latter-day Saints' Advantage: They contrast this with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has a hierarchical structure that allows for effective mobilization.
• General Conference and Handbook of Instructions: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' general conference and handbook of instructions provide a cohesive framework for members.
• Hierarchical Structure: The speakers acknowledge that while the hierarchical structure of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can be frustrating at times, it enables unparalleled mobilization during crises.

Conclusion

The discussion highlights the complexities of Christianity's role in contemporary American society. While Jonathan Roush's insights on the importance of Christianity for a moral society are valuable, his emphasis on compromise and his failure to address the challenge posed by Marxism are significant shortcomings. The speakers also emphasize the unique ability of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to mobilize its members due to its hierarchical structure, contrasting it with the challenges faced by evangelicals. The speakers suggest that a deeper understanding of the current political landscape, including the rise of rival ideologies like Marxism, is necessary for a more comprehensive analysis of Christianity's role in America.