Podcast Summary: In Totality with Megan Ashley Episode 52: Faith and Politics (Ft. Justin E. Giboney) Release Date: October 29, 2024
Introduction
In Episode 52 of In Totality with Megan Ashley, host Megan Ashley engages in a profound conversation with Justin E. Giboney, co-founder of the AND Campaign. The episode delves into the intricate relationship between faith and politics, particularly from the perspective of a Christian navigating the often tumultuous political landscape.
Guest Background: Justin E. Giboney
Justin E. Giboney introduces himself as an ordained minister, attorney, and political strategist with over a decade of experience running campaigns in Atlanta. Raised in Denver and educated at Vanderbilt University, Justin's journey into politics was fueled by a deep-seated desire for competition, stemming from his athletic background. However, his path took a transformative turn as he reconciled his political involvement with his Christian faith.
Notable Quote:
"I'm just enjoying the times, right? I'm going to all the places I shouldn't be going, all that stuff."
— Justin E. Giboney [03:38]
The Intersection of Faith and Politics
Justin discusses the challenges of integrating faith into political participation, emphasizing that separation between church and state does not equate to isolation of personal values from political decisions. He argues that Christians can and should use their values to inform their political choices without forcing their beliefs upon others.
Notable Quote:
"We live in a pluralistic society... But I don't want to force nobody to be a Christian. In fact, that's not even how the religion works."
— Justin E. Giboney [01:44]
The False Gospel and Personal Transformation
Justin recounts his departure from a shallow expression of faith during his college years, influenced by an "alternative gospel" that permitted complacency. His transformative experience in Atlanta, marked by personal struggles and divine intervention, led him to a more authentic and sacrificial understanding of the gospel.
Notable Quote:
"God just worked on my heart, gave me a second... and that's why we're married now."
— Justin E. Giboney [12:13]
Founding the AND Campaign: Merging Love and Truth
The AND Campaign was established to bridge the perceived divide between love and truth in politics. Justin criticizes the tendency of political parties to prioritize one over the other, arguing for a balanced approach that embodies both compassion and integrity, as exemplified by the teachings of Ephesians 4:14-15.
Notable Quote:
"We're bringing those two together. And as much as our political parties... we're gonna push those together."
— Justin E. Giboney [08:57]
Historical Context: Black Voters and Party Shifts
Justin provides a historical overview of African American political alignment, highlighting the shift from the Democratic to the Republican Party and back. He explains how historical events, such as the civil rights movement and the emergence of the Moral Majority, have shaped current voting patterns and perceptions within the black community.
Notable Quote:
"Jim Crow ends in '65, '68... less than 20 years before I was born."
— Justin E. Giboney [25:40]
Engaging Faith in the Political Process
Justin emphasizes the importance of Christians actively participating in politics to uphold moral values and advocate for social justice. He discourages blind allegiance to political parties, advocating instead for informed voting based on personal convictions and the genuine desire to serve the community.
Notable Quote:
"Prayer, line up the issue, you know, line up which issues are important to you. Make a decision and let it go."
— Justin E. Giboney [28:36]
Navigating Racial and Political Tensions
The conversation addresses the emotional and psychological toll of political polarization, especially for black Christians. Justin advocates for honesty about historical injustices, accountability without hatred, and building relationships beyond political affiliations to foster understanding and healing.
Notable Quote:
"There's redemption for that. There's grace for that."
— Justin E. Giboney [49:44]
Strategies for Informed and Faithful Voting
Justin advises listeners to diversify their information sources to avoid confirmation bias and encourages critical engagement with media. He recommends podcasts and newsletters that offer balanced perspectives, such as Breaking Point, Counterpoints, and Unheard Free Press, to cultivate a well-rounded understanding of political issues.
Notable Quote:
"If you want to get closest to the truth, we need to hear both sides of the story."
— Justin E. Giboney [54:34]
Encouraging Bold Christian Witness in Politics
Highlighting the example of Stephen from the Book of Acts, Justin calls for Christians to exhibit boldness and courage in defending their faith within the public sphere. He underscores the importance of transforming personal convictions into constructive political action without compromising integrity or fostering division.
Notable Quote:
"The goal is transformation. But we don't want to listen to anybody that tells us we have to transform, because I'm already good."
— Justin E. Giboney [18:32]
Conclusion and Journal Prompts
Megan and Justin wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to integrate prayer into their political decision-making, engage actively in their communities, and approach elections with humility and discernment. Justin offers reflective journal prompts to help listeners process their beliefs and actions in light of their faith.
Notable Quote:
"Realize Jesus isn't on the ballot. And that's not to say that both sides are equal..."
— Justin E. Giboney [63:13]
Journal Prompt:
- Reflect on how your faith influences your political decisions. In what ways can you better integrate prayer and biblical principles into your voting process?
Key Takeaways
- Integration of Faith and Politics: Christians can and should allow their values to inform their political choices without enforcing their beliefs on others.
- Authentic Gospel Practice: A genuine relationship with God requires sacrifice and holiness, beyond superficial expressions of faith.
- Historical Awareness: Understanding the historical shifts in political party alignments is crucial for informed voting and advocacy.
- Balanced Information Consumption: Diversifying media sources helps in overcoming confirmation bias and fosters a more comprehensive understanding of political issues.
- Constructive Political Engagement: Boldness in faith should translate into thoughtful and compassionate political action, promoting both love and truth.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Justin E. Giboney [03:38]: "I'm just enjoying the times, right? I'm going to all the places I shouldn't be going, all that stuff."
- Justin E. Giboney [01:44]: "We live in a pluralistic society... But I don't want to force nobody to be a Christian. In fact, that's not even how the religion works."
- Justin E. Giboney [12:13]: "God just worked on my heart, gave me a second... and that's why we're married now."
- Justin E. Giboney [08:57]: "We're bringing those two together. And as much as our political parties... we're gonna push those together."
- Justin E. Giboney [25:40]: "Jim Crow ends in '65, '68... less than 20 years before I was born."
- Justin E. Giboney [28:36]: "Prayer, line up the issue, you know, line up which issues are important to you. Make a decision and let it go."
- Justin E. Giboney [49:44]: "There's redemption for that. There's grace for that."
- Justin E. Giboney [54:34]: "If you want to get closest to the truth, we need to hear both sides of the story."
- Justin E. Giboney [18:32]: "The goal is transformation. But we don't want to listen to anybody that tells us we have to transform, because I'm already good."
- Justin E. Giboney [63:13]: "Realize Jesus isn't on the ballot. And that's not to say that both sides are equal..."
This episode offers a thoughtful exploration of how Christians can navigate the complexities of political engagement while maintaining their faith and moral integrity. Justin E. Giboney provides valuable insights and practical advice for listeners seeking to reconcile their spiritual beliefs with their civic responsibilities.