Summary of "The Briefing with Albert Mohler" – June 3, 2025

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Briefing with Albert Mohler
• Host/Author: R. Albert Mohler, Jr.
• Description: Cultural Commentary from a Biblical Perspective
• Episode: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
• Release Date: June 3, 2025

Introduction

In the June 3, 2025 episode of The Briefing with Albert Mohler, host R. Albert Mohler, Jr. delves into the evolving dynamics between the United States and Europe. Drawing upon Mark Mazauer's insightful analysis from the Financial Times, Mohler explores the historical shifts in power, contemporary political tensions, and cultural divergences shaping transatlantic relations today.

The Shifting Power Balance: Europe and the United States

Mohler begins by discussing Mazauer's article titled "The End of the Affair," which posits that Europeans are re-evaluating their foundational relationship with the United States. He provides a historical overview, emphasizing the transition from European dominance to American preeminence.

"In the early American period, of course, it was Europe that held the big cards... But all that began to shift even in the 19th century." [02:45]

Mazauer highlights the 19th-century shift where the United States emerged as a powerhouse, both culturally and economically, challenging the longstanding European supremacy. Figures like Alexis de Tocqueville are cited as European observers who admired and sought to learn from American democratic experiments.

"De Tocqueville was an admirer and a friend of the United States. He wanted... other European nations to learn from the democratic constitutional experiment of the United States of America." [05:10]

The Monroe Doctrine and American Ascendancy

Mohler outlines the significance of the Monroe Doctrine (1823), proclaimed by President James Monroe, which asserted U.S. opposition to European colonialism in the New World. This policy marked a definitive stance of the U.S. positioning itself as a dominant force in the Western Hemisphere.

"By the time you get to the second half of the 20th century, you had this coalescence of American leadership in what became NATO..." [08:30]

He further traces the U.S.'s role in pivotal events like the World Wars, where America's involvement was crucial in shaping global outcomes and fostering closer alliances with European nations through institutions like NATO.

Contemporary Reevaluations: Mazauer's Concerns

Mazauer's central thesis is that the post-World War II "cemented" alliance between the U.S. and Europe is under strain. Factors contributing to this reassessment include:

1. Defense Spending Discrepancies: President Donald Trump's criticism of European nations for "free riding" on U.S. defense contributions has sparked tensions within NATO.

   "Trump has called out the fact that so many of these Western European nations have been free riding, so to speak, on the defense spending..." [15:20]

2. Political Fragmentation in Europe: The rise of nationalist and conservative movements across Europe, exemplified by Germany's Alliance for Germany (AfD) and Hungary's Viktor Orban, signifies a shift away from established liberal norms.

   "We are thus confronted with an irony of history... Europe cleaves closer to the Enlightenment values of secular reasons, mistrust of organized faith, and commitment to deliberation." [24:50]

3. Cultural and Value Conflicts: Europe's increasing secularism contrasts with the resurgence of conservative Christian influence in the U.S., leading to misunderstandings and cultural frictions.

   "The US is in the hands of social conservatives dreaming of a return to traditional values." [28:15]

Political Climate in Europe: The Struggle with Conservatism

Mohler provides an in-depth analysis of Europe's internal political struggles, focusing on Germany and France as case studies:

• Germany: The AfD's rise threatens the liberal consensus, with efforts by mainstream parties to delegitimize and ban conservative factions without a clear definition of what constitutes "extremism."

  "The big question right now is whether the German Chancellor... will simply declare the alliance for Germany to be an illegal party..." [35:40]

• France: Issues of immigration and assimilation have led to the formation of Islamic enclaves in cities like Paris, challenging Europe's cosmopolitan and secular ideals.

  "Entire neighborhoods... are basically now Islamic enclaves. ... theology does matter." [42:10]

Mohler argues that Europe's attempts to suppress conservative movements are backfiring, fostering resentment and undermining democratic norms.

"They're all for democracy, but they're not about a vote. That would be in violation of what they see as essential democratic and European values." [38:05]

Immigration and Cultural Assimilation

A significant portion of the discussion addresses the impact of immigration on European societies. Mohler contends that Europe's liberal immigration policies have led to failures in assimilation, resulting in cultural enclaves resistant to secular and traditional European values.

"You've got many who have come into these nations, especially from Islam, those outlooks are not secular at all, nor will they assimilate with the larger culture." [48:20]

He critiques both European leadership and voters for their handling of immigration, suggesting that policies have inadvertently cultivated divisions and eroded social cohesion.

The Notre Dame Cathedral: A Symbol of Secularism

Transitioning from geopolitical analysis, Mohler reflects on his personal experience visiting the renovated Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. He uses this iconic structure as a metaphor for Europe's secular trajectory.

"It's as if you have a symbol of the modern age where so many have left the faith, but they want to keep the building." [55:30]

Mohler provides a historical overview of Notre Dame, highlighting its significance during the French Revolution as a testament to secularism and its restoration under Napoleon. He laments that while the cathedral stands as an architectural marvel, it no longer embodies its original spiritual and transcendent purpose.

"The history of Notre Dame Cathedral... was built to reflect transcendence, and it was built as a statement of Christian truth." [58:45]

He contrasts this with contemporary Europe, where such religious symbols are appreciated more for cultural heritage than for their spiritual essence.

Conclusion: Reflections on Transatlantic Relations

In wrapping up the episode, Mohler emphasizes the need for understanding the complex and shifting relationships between the U.S. and Europe. He underscores the importance of recognizing the underlying cultural and political changes that are reshaping alliances and global power structures.

"Mark Mazauer's article sets out something of tremendous importance... moving away from Christian faith, moving away from Christian morality, moving away from national identity." [1:02:10]

Mohler anticipates further discussions on related topics, including immigration challenges and free speech issues in Europe, signaling continuity in his analytical approach to current events from a Christian worldview.

For More Information:

• Visit Albert Mohler's Website
• Follow on Twitter/X
• Southern Baptist Theological Seminary: spts.edu
• Boyce College: boycecollege.com

Recorded in Paris, France.