When Secularism Becomes the Church: Dr. John West on Stockholm Syndrome Christianity

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com What happens when the church adopts the worldview of its cultural critics? According to recent data, nearly 60% of American Christians now say it"s more important to be “kind” than to uphold biblical truth. But what if that kindness is shaped by a secularism that quietly undermines Christian convictions? In this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with Dr. John West—author of Stockholm Syndrome Christianity and VP of the Discovery Institute—to explore how secular assumptions have infiltrated the church from within. West, a longtime scholar of politics, religion, and science, argues that many church leaders have internalized a materialist worldview that strips faith of its power to transform. We talk homelessness, public policy, marriage, religious liberty, and why Christians need to recover a holistic view of human dignity—not just “throw money at problems.” It’s a thought-provoking dialogue on the tensions between compassion, conviction, and cultural conformity. 👤 Guest Bio Dr. John West is Vice President of the Discovery Institute and co-founder of its Center for Science and Culture. Formerly chair of political science at Seattle Pacific University, West holds a PhD in government from Claremont Graduate University. He is the author or editor of 13 books and has directed 12 documentaries on faith, politics, and culture. His latest book, Stockholm Syndrome Christianity, explores how secular worldviews have reshaped the American church. Support the show 🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest? 👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going: donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content: faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events: Chec...