The Intersection of Faith and Politics: A Journalist’s Journey

Tim Alberta’s personal and professional exploration of the complex relationship between evangelical Christianity and politics in America.

Goodwill Church, located in New York’s Hudson Valley, holds a special place in the heart of journalist Tim Alberta. It was here that his family’s faith journey began, with his father, Richard Alberta, becoming a born-again Christian nearly 50 years ago. However, as Tim pursued a career in journalism and delved into the world of politics, he found himself grappling with the intersection of faith and politics in a way he never anticipated. This journey of self-discovery and reflection forms the basis of Alberta’s new book, “The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory,” which explores the “age of extremism” within the white evangelical church.

The Crisis in the American Church

Alberta’s book sheds light on the crisis within the white evangelical church, which he believes has been influenced by an “age of extremism.” According to Pew Research Center, approximately 24% of American adults identify as evangelical, and 68% of white evangelicals supported former President Donald Trump during his presidency. Alberta argues that this shift reflects a departure from traditional norms, both within the Republican Party and the church itself. He suggests that when certain groups gain enough power and influence, the fringe elements can overtake the mainstream, leading to a polarization within the church.

The Shadow of Politics

At Goodwill Church, Senior Pastor John Torres, who once worked with Tim’s father, expresses unease about the intrusion of politics into the church. While some evangelicals embrace politics as a means of affirming their hard-won power, Torres believes that the church should focus on its primary mission of spreading the teachings of Jesus rather than engaging in political discussions. He emphasizes the need to separate politics from the church, as it can often lead to division and detract from the core message of faith.

The Temptation of Power

Alberta explores the reasons behind the fervent support of many evangelicals for Donald Trump, despite his controversial rhetoric and behavior. He attributes this support to the promise of power that Trump offered during his 2016 campaign. Alberta argues that when individuals gain power, they can easily lose sight of their principles and values, leading to a disconnect between their faith and their actions. He highlights the danger of prioritizing political power over the teachings of Scripture and the potential consequences for the church and society at large.

Conclusion: Tim Alberta’s personal journey of grappling with the intersection of faith and politics offers a poignant reflection on the state of the white evangelical church in America. His book serves as a call for introspection and a reminder of the importance of maintaining the core principles of faith in the face of political influence. As the debate over the role of politics in the church continues, Alberta’s insights provide a thought-provoking examination of the challenges and complexities inherent in this relationship. Ultimately, his story serves as a reminder that faith should guide our actions, even in the midst of a politically charged world.