Ep 353: How Should Christians Respond to Critical Theory? with Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer

Summary – How Should Christians Respond to Critical Theory? with Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer

This is part two of a lengthy  conversation on Contemporary Critical guests Pat Sawyer and Neil Shenvi as they delve into the complexities of critical social theory and its impact on the church.

Throughout the episode, our guests stress the importance of asking questions and engaging in dialogue, particularly within our churches. They encourage us not to assume the worst when pastors use terms like oppression or justice, but rather to invite them for meaningful conversations to better understand their perspectives.

Furthermore, Sawyer and Shenvi draw attention to the racial divide in our country, discussing the ongoing effects of slavery and Jim Crow, and the need to acknowledge race without ignoring its existence. They emphasize the centrality of our identity in Christ over race or ethnicity, cautioning against colorblindness that dismisses other cultures or fails to address racism.

They also touch on the challenges of engaging with contemporary critical theory as Christians, highlighting the potential pitfalls of prioritizing ethnic pride and identity over our identity in Christ. Sawyer and Shenvi shed light on the ways in which critical social theory can impact the church, directing our attention towards earthly emancipation and oppressive conditions.

Additional Resources

• Buy Critical Dilemma
• Shenvi Apologetics