In this conversation, Heather Cronk, founder of Project 2112, discusses her journey from evangelicalism to organizing ex-vangelicals against rising Christian nationalism. She shares insights on the importance of community building, the impact of cognitive dissonance, and the need for curiosity in conversations about faith and politics. The discussion also delves into the authoritarian tendencies within evangelicalism, the significance of Israel in evangelical theology, and the Seven Mountains mandate, which outlines a strategy for Christian dominion over various societal sectors. Heather emphasizes the importance of creating alternative spaces for ex-vangelicals and the need for empathy and understanding in bridging divides.
Takeaways
Heather Cronk founded Project 2112 to support ex-vangelicals.
15 million people in the US identify as ex-vangelicals.
Cognitive dissonance is a significant barrier to change.
Curiosity can drive more productive conversations.
Christian nationalism is linked to authoritarianism.
Empathy is crucial for engaging with those still in evangelicalism.
The Seven Mountains mandate outlines a strategy for Christian dominion.
Evangelicals often have a complex relationship with Israel.
Creating alternative communities is essential for ex-vangelicals.
Understanding coded language in evangelicalism is important.
Titles
Breaking Free from Evangelicalism: A Journey of Transformation
Project 2112: Building Community for Ex-Vangelicals
Sound bites
“Curiosity is the driver.”
“Everything is about power.”
“We are not part of this project.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Project 2112 and Its Mission
01:41 Heather Cronk’s Journey from Evangelicalism
04:49 The Impact of Community on Deconstruction
07:39 Generational Perspectives on Ex-Vangelicalism
09:51 The Link Between Evangelicalism and Authoritarianism
11:38 Current Events and the Rise of Christian Nationalism
14:03 The Role of Violence in Radicalization
15:04 Cognitive Dissonance and Media Influence
17:46 The Importance of Personal Relationships in Change
21:32 Curiosity as a Tool for Understanding
22:59 Deconstructing Fundamentalism Beyond Theology
24:46 The War on Empathy in Evangelical Circles
27:00 Decoding Evangelical Language and Culture
30:23 Understanding Eschatology and Its Implications
35:16 The Complexities of Christian Zionism
37:58 The Seven Mountains Mandate Explained
41:22 Power Dynamics in Christian Nationalism
44:37 Engaging Exvangelicals in Political Discourse
