The False White Gospel

Rejecting Christian Nationalism, Reclaiming True Faith, and Refounding Democracy

By: Jim Wallis, Eddie Glaude

Narrated by: Jim Wallis, Leon Nixon - foreword

Length: 11 hrs and 32 mins

Publisher's summary

This program is read by the author.

"Everyone who claims to be 'Christian' or else claims to be upset by 'Christianity' needs to read this book, especially politicians using people's supposed faith for their own ends." (Margaret E. Atwood)

"Jim Wallis calls the nation to grow up and he calls us all to fight the love battle to save the soul of America."—From the Foreword by Eddie S. Glaude, Jr.

A major new work by the New York Times bestselling author, arguing that the answer to bad religion is true faith that will help refound democracy

It is time says Jim Wallis, to call out genuine faith—specifically the “Christian” in White Christian Nationalism—inviting all who can be persuaded to reject and help dismantle a false gospel that propagates white supremacy and autocracy. We need–to raise up the faith of all of us, and help those who are oblivious, stuck, and captive to the ideology and idolatry of White Christian Nationalism that is leading us to such great danger. Wallis turns our attention to six iconic texts at the heart of what genuine biblical faith means and what Jesus, in the gospels, has called us to do. It is time to ask anew: do we believe these teachings or not?

This book isn’t only for Christians but for all faith traditions, and even those with no faith at all. When we see a civic promotion of fear, hate, and violence for the trajectory of our politics, we need a civic faith of love, healing, and hope to defeat it. And that must involve all of us–religious or not. Learning to practice a politics of neighbor love will be central to the future of democracy in America. And more than ever, the words of Jesus ring, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin’s Press Essentials.

©2024 Jim Wallis (P)2024 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

"[An] ardent manifesto...Wallis’s passion for justice and creative interpretation of the Bible generate more than enough energy to keep readers’ attention....a conversation starter."—Publishers Weekly

"A balm and an irritant, a peace AND a trouble-maker, Jim Wallis wants to understand the divine truths AND how to live them, not just in private, but in our daily lives. His faith isn’t the happy-clappy kind—it’s a deeper dive, sometimes in murky waters."—Bono

“Jim Wallis once again demonstrates why he is America’s prophet and moral philosopher. His latest book speaks to the idolatry of a Christian faith baptized in whiteness and false notions of supremacy. A must read for anyone concerned about the future of this republic called America.”—Otis Moss III, senior pastor, Trinity United Church of Christ, Chicago, Illinois

A must-read as we enter into election season

This book so excellently ties together the complex history of slavery, racism, inequality, and American Christianity… and how the latter has played a formative role in maintaining a White power structure for generations.

Biblical References

I’ve never really read the Bible much but now I want to because his careful and well defined references make his message clear, Really a great book. And I love Eddie Glaude too.

Jesus & his disciples knew that time & again we would need to return to his/ their loving words

This books gets to the importance of really following Jesus's teachings. Through his words we can save our democracy & maybe a few souls along the way. Jim Wallis,thank you for writing this book. You show your love & concern for every person

Powerful In Depth Of Crafting Understanding

I found this reading to be educational, uplifting, clarifying, and direct. My true understanding has become a wider view that surrounds me. I’m deeply saddened by its pages. I am uplifted and wiser from the messenger. Truth is Given and sometimes misunderstood and misdirected by others and here I found it very easy and loving to know the answers unquestioned by many people who claim to know the lessons of the lord. Chapter One reveals a lot that I am grateful for in my own life experiences.

The importance of love and kindness to build people and relationships up, instead of using hate to divide and tear down.

I liked the way Jim Wallis used God’s word to love our neighbor, including those different from us, to explain the path for social justice.

A View of Hope

This is one of the best books I have had the pleasure of experiencing.

Speak the truth then to the truth!

Convicting and inspiring! You cannot be a white nationalist and a true follower of Christ. White Nationalism is a false gospel. It does not draw men to Christ; it makes men flee the church! True believers have to live the love of Christ by embracing Justice for all.

Must Read

if one regards oneself as an American Patriot then Jim Wallis' Book is a MUST READ!!

Insightful

I appreciated the thoughtful presentation of this issue. The analysis was fair and balanced with supporting biblical references and principles.

False Gospel to False Gospel

The writer correctly identifies that the current Christian nationalism is a false gospel. Al Christians should be on the side of social justice and fairness and equality.

But The Gospel is not about that, it's about the great commission. There should never be a christian sermon or teaching that advocates or sides with racism or inequality. And it is commendable to join those fights. But it is not the gospel. Christians are to be about the great commission and in that process, our kindness and gentleness to all should be brightly evident.

Democracy isn't the Gospel, neither is multi racial democracy. But it's the best we've got on this earth. Christians however, should not make the mistake of equating democracy with the christian message. We are citizens of another kingdom and whatever political system we live in, we should exhibit the principles of the eternal kingdom. Hopefully, this causes change for good, but more often than not, we are the ones who get trampled for our kindness. This world is ruled by violence and the sooner we all get that through our heads the better. Othewise, we are led to expect more than is possible.

So I'm afraid the author has gone from one false gospel to another.