Episode Details

What shapes your identity more — your faith or your politics? In this episode, sociologist George Yancey explores how Americansengage in public life today and why that engagement often feels louder, sharper and more polarized than in previous decades. 

George Yancey, professor of sociology at Baylor University, distinguishes public engagement from political engagement, noting that evangelicals have long contributed to the common good through volunteering, giving, mentoring and building institutions, even if those efforts receive less attention than politics.

Together, NAE President Walter Kim and George Yancey examine how recent cultural and political dynamics have amplified partisan voices and intensified the pressures shaping Christian public witness.They also point toward a better way forward: a kingdom-centered identity marked by humility, curiosityand a deeper sense of belonging in Christ. 

You‘ll hear: 

• How today’s tensions are less about “Christian nationalism” and more about identity politics on both the right and left;
• Why political tribalism is so powerful in this moment; and 
• How the Church can offer deeper belonging and a more faithful witness. 

As polarization grows, this episode invites Christians to re-center their identity — and engage public life with truth, love and concern for every neighbor. 

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Resources 

• Full conversation with George Yancey on YouTube
• For further study see Jeremiah 17:9, Luke 10, John 4, Galatians 3 
• “It’s Not ‘Christian Nationalism.’ It’s Conservative Identity Politics.” by George Yancey in Christianity Today 
• Books written by George Yancey 
• What Is Christian Nationalism Anyway?, episode of NAE Difficult Conversations podcast
• Nationalism vs. Patriotism: What’s the Difference?, NAE podcast with Paul Miller
• “How to Live Well With Enemies,” by Luke Bretherton in Evangelicals magazine
• “A Christian’s Place in Political Parties,” Q&A with Cherie Harder in Evangelicals magazine

Today’s Conversation is brought to you by Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company.