The Bad Roman
Are you a Christian who feels politically homeless? Like all the politicians are on the same side and you’re left to choose between two bad options called ”the right” or ”the left”? As Christians, we are supposed to follow Christ—not a political party. On this show, we explore what it means to put down a flag (be it a nation or party) and to live life choosing to pick up the Cross. In conversation with theologians, Christians, and non-Christians, host Craig Harguess, self-proclaimed former neoconservative Southern Baptist Republican from West Texas turned pacifist and Christian Voluntaryist explores the entanglement of Christians with the State (political power). New episodes are released bi-weekly. Subscribe to our newsletter and learn more at thebadroman.com.
Episodes
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Jesus Has No Flag with Against All Flags Podcast Team
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
The Against All Flags podcast team underscore the groundbreaking proclamation of 'No King but Christ' and join us on an exploration of the intriguing intersection of faith and state.
Tune in for a captivating conversation that not only reveals the early church's commitment to nonviolence, but also delves into personal experiences of life beyond politics, and reaffirms Jesus' supreme reign over all earthly powers. Prepare to be engrossed in a thought-provoking narrative that dares to challenge traditional loyalties and sparks a deeper, more peaceful understanding of faith.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST AND PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with our guests:
Follow their Podcast: Against All Flags
Nathan
Instagram: @against_all_flags_pod
Anthony
Instagrams: @against_all_flags_boomer
@beltfed_bandit
Wyatt
@wyatt_j_d_
Starting Points & Key Moments:
01:02 Christian Anarchy Explained (11 Minutes)
11:29 Christian Anarchy and Faith in Christ (5 Minutes)
16:04 King Jesus and AntiState Christianity (12 Minutes)
28:27 Corruption and Inequality in Government (4 Minutes)
32:33 Early Christian Anarchy and Theology (6 Minutes)
38:52 Early Church Influence on Modern Christianity (6 Minutes)
44:37 Standing vs. Sitting for National Anthem (9 Minutes)
53:38 Christian Podcast Promoting AntiFlag Message (14 Minutes)
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-106
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Bible Translations: Is the Greek Right? with Duncan Palmer
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Join Craig and theologian Duncan Kerry Palmer in a riveting exploration of how ancient Greek nuances reshape our understanding of biblical texts. This episode delves into the significant impact of translations, particularly words like 'exousia' and 'hupotaso', which challenge traditional interpretations of authority and compliance within Christianity.
Through Palmer's insightful anecdotes from theological debates, we uncover the profound implications of these linguistic subtleties on interpretations of key scriptures such as Romans 13 and Acts 5:29. This discussion not only illuminates the complex relationship between Christianity and state authority but also invites listeners to reevaluate their perspectives on governance and societal roles in light of scripture.
As we unravel the intriguing concept of translation conspiracies, the episode encourages a critical examination of how language influences our understanding of divine mandates, urging a thoughtful reconsideration of passages like "render unto Caesar."
Tune in to this enlightening episode for a transformative journey through faith, language, and politics, challenging you to rethink your views on biblical authority and alignment.
Key Moments:
(01:02) Christian-State Relationships
(04:04) Scripture Through Translation
(05:02) Modern-Day Pharisees and Wisdom
(07:07) Connotation in Translation
(15:30) Greek Words in Scripture
(28:43) Biblical Terminology
(42:56) God's Government Through His Assembly
(54:16) Translation Conspiracies in Christianity
(10:02) Lost in Translation
(21:24) Romans 13 and Governing Authorities
(24:14) Christianity and Politics
(36:43) Untranslated Greek Words in the Bible
(42:56) Government, Church, and Satan's Kingdom
(47:06) Power and Authority of Christ
(53:03) Frustration With Christian Statism
(01:00:59) Explore Duncan’s Work
SUPPORT THE PODCAST AND PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Duncan Cary Palmer:
Social Community: Peakd.com
Twitter/X: @NewEarthHeaven
Blog: Hive Blog
Duncan’s email: duncan@sharefreely.com
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-105
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Christian Rap: Beats of Belief & Gospel for the Streets with Brother Devan
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Join us in this powerful episode as we dive into the inspirational journey of Brother Devan, CEO of Gospel for the Streets. His unique blend of Gospel and hip-hop is reshaping the spiritual scene in Memphis, Tennessee. We discuss his personal journey, his role at Innovation Church, and his unique music that challenges norms and unites communities.
We tackle tough topics such as religious dogma, church hypocrisy, and faith's entanglement with government. Brother Devan provides insightful perspectives on these issues, showcasing the essence of spiritual maturity and conviction.
We also delve into the vibrant city of Memphis, highlighting the significant role Brother Devan's ministry plays in societal transformation through his grassroots activism, dialogue, and music.
The episode wraps up with a light-hearted discussion on viral moments and how they can ignite a deeper calling. Tune in for an episode that will inspire, challenge, and reaffirm the power of faith in action. This dialogue with Brother Devan offers a fresh look at living out the gospel, powered by the rhythm of hip-hop.
Key Moments:
01:02 Exploring Christian Faith and Ministry
11:44 Modern Day Pharisees and Spiritual Warfare
18:47 Church Hypocrisy and Government Influence
31:19 The Narrative of Memphis
40:48 Gospel for the Streets
45:51 Banana Pudding and Gospel Ministry
57:37 Strategic Collaboration for Gospel Outreach
SUPPORT THE PODCAST AND PROJECT: thebadroman.com/donate
Connect with Brother Devan:
Gospel For the Streets Instagram, Facebook & YouTube
Listen and Follow Brother Devan’s Music on Spotify, Apple Music, iHeart Radio, Deezer, or Youtube
Devan’s Personal Facebook
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-104
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Christian Fiction: Voluntary Society & Faith Insights with Joseph Macolino
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Joseph Macolino is a masterful storyteller whose love for fantasy began in childhood. Joseph shares the evolution of his fictional universe, Evorath, and the tales that populate its thousand-year timeline. Drawing inspiration from literary giants like Tolkien and Orwell, Joseph crafts narratives that resonate deeply with themes of governmental skepticism and the pursuit of a society aligned with the teachings of Christ. His trilogy stands as a testament to the power of fiction in challenging our beliefs and illuminating the path to Christ's kingdom.
Throughout our conversation, we thread the needle between fiction and reality, exploring how the characters in Joseph’s fantasy series confront the winds of change, transitioning from a structured monarchy to a society where Christian anarchist principles reign supreme. This isn't just about creating another world; it's about challenging the status quo, questioning the reader's long-held beliefs, and presenting a tapestry of upheaval that resonates with both historical and contemporary political movements. The tales shared offer more than escapism - they invite introspection and boldly propose a life governed by faith rather than fear
Wrapping up our expedition into Evorath, we delve into the lives of characters who are as multidimensional as the world they inhabit. Villains reveal vulnerabilities and heroes grapple with the unforeseen repercussions of their deeds. Through them, we glimpse a society in flux—a monarchy giving way to a republic, and ultimately an anarchist community living out these principles. It's more than just a fantasy series; it's a reflection of libertarian turned anarchist ideology and the perennial quest for a harmonious existence. Join us for this imaginative and thought-provoking episode that's sure to provoke discussion and maybe even inspire a reevaluation of the way we view our world and the powers that govern it.
Connect with Joseph Macolino:
Evorath.com
Follow Joesph on Amazon
Advanced Reader Copy (Arc Reader)
Timestamps:
01:08 Exploring Anarchy Through Fiction
12:35 Spreading Christian Anarchy Through Fiction
19:59 Discussing Writing, Influence, and Christianity**
28:22 God Is Strategic
31:46 Expanding on Book Two Characters
39:46 Fantasy Series and Libertarian Ideology
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-103
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
In this special episode of The Bad Roman, we take an atypical yet gripping detour into the sinister world of true crime, religious beliefs, and their troubling convergence. Cristy Ramos, the voice behind the budding podcast Cristy's Chronicles, where she discusses the finer details of real-life crime stories. Having worked in law and health insurance, she has deep knowledge of how the system functions. Cristy offers a fresh perspective on understanding the motivations of criminals and how the government deals with them.
In this conversation, we explore both infamous and lesser-known cases like those of Casey Anthony and Israel Keyes. With a past rooted in Christianity, Cristy offers an enlightening perspective on how religious upbringings and interpretations of scripture can intersect with and potentially influence criminal behavior.
Even though we're talking about True Crime, this topic helps us, as Bad Romans, understand how the government catches and punishes criminals, and if our justice system is doing a good job. It challenges us to think about what ‘No King But Christ’ means when faced with horrendous acts, how do we punish people in a voluntary society?
Conversation Highlights:
The role religion can have infamous crimes.
The trial of Casey Anthony and the unanswered questions.
How serial killer Israel Keyes planned his crimes and whether his religious upbringing had any role.
The impact of crime on society and how the government responds, like in the case of Memphis.
How common people and technology can help solve old mysteries.
Fun topics like ghosts, UFOs, and conspiracy theories in our real-life crime chat.
Whether we're studying about criminals or pondering over statism, The Bad Roman is always here to help you learn and think differently. Join us for this episode and others as we continue to explore what it means to live as a follower of Jesus in the 21st century, Christians’ entanglement with political forces around the world, and the mystery of being alive that intrigues us all.
Connect with Cristy:
Cristy’s Chronicles Podcast – website, Apple Podcasts
Facebook Page
Discord
Instagram @cristys_chroniclez
Email: cristyschronicles@gmail.com
Starting Points:
00:00:02 Exploring True Crime and Religion
00:03:45 Understanding the Causes of Disturbing Behavior
00:09:59 Mother's Emotion in Crime Case Perceptions
00:09:59 The Casey Anthony Murder Trial
00:15:12 Casey Anthony
00:22:20 Israel Keyes and Serial Killers
00:23:33 Israel Keyes' Different Christian Church
00:29:45 Serial Killer's Moral Code and Restrictions
00:35:08 Serial Killers and Gang Violence
00:36:27 Questioning Cobain's Death and Investigative Biases
00:38:37 Cults and the Death Penalty
00:44:15 Serial Killer's Revelations and Suicide
00:48:29 Crime Impact, Role of Government
00:53:50 True Crime and Victim's Families
00:56:17 Conspiracies, Crime, and Paranormal Exploration
00:59:62 True Crime Podcast Halloween Plans
01:06:25 Impressive Crime Podcast With Learning Opportunities.
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-101
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
SUPPORT THE SHOW: thebadroman.com/donate
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
Mormon Anarchy: Lessons from the Book of Mormon with Casey Beres
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
When Casey Perez walked away from the Mormon Church, he didn't just leave behind a congregation; he discovered a tapestry of anarchy and voluntaryism hidden within its teachings. In this profound discussion, we find unexpected solidarity with anarchist thought, as Casey unveils how the Book of Mormon's scriptures and doctrines mirror the principles of societal autonomy and individual freedom. Our exchange traverses religious and ideological frontiers, inviting both Mormons and non-Mormons to embrace the underlying values that bind us together as a global family.
The conversation shifts as we contemplate the personal changes spurred by political disillusionment and debates over the constitution, intensified by the pandemic. As we consider the emotional impact of mandates on both individuals and communities, we delve into the debris of societal pressures. In doing so, we discover a widespread desire for a support network and a community that values individual choice, and we explore the role of authority and governance from a perspective of spiritual enlightenment, not political will.
Wrapping up, we look beyond the horizon of today's interpretations of LDS texts, questioning traditional views on government, war, and America's place in divine providence. We explore the notion of modern slavery within our own societal structures and discuss the frustrations of many modern Christians with the current state of affairs.
We question divine providence in the American founding and probe the implications of the government's hand in modern slavery. Our quest for understanding takes us from the battlefield of American history to the heart of Christian anarchy, culminating in a call to action for the Mormon community to consider the anarchy threaded within their beliefs. Whether your interest lies in faith, freedom, or the crossroads where they meet, join us for a stimulating conversation that promises to challenge and enlighten.
Connect with Casey:
Substack: mackenziesspleen.substack.com
Bandcamp: Potbelly MacKraken
Episode Starting Points:
(00:02) - Anarchy and the Book of Mormon
(08:04) - Churches and Conversion to Anarchy
(18:27) - COVID Horror Stories and Vaccine Mandates
(25:12) - Understanding the LDS Scriptural Canon
(32:13) - Anarchy in the Book of Mormon
(39:28) - Government and Anarchy in LDS Scriptures
(49:43) - Beliefs on God, Constitution, and Slavery
(59:30) - Frustration of Modern Christians and Anarchism
(01:09:07) - Promoting Anarchy in the Mormon Community
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-101
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
SUPPORT THE SHOW: thebadroman.com/donate
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
Christian Ethics and Stateless Societies: The Anarchist Approach of the Perry Family
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
Delve into the concept of Christian Anarchism and Voluntarism, examining the journey that leads individuals away from traditional politics towards a voluntary stateless life rooted in faith. In the 100th episode, host Craig Harguess is joined by Sarah and Jeff Perry from Voluntaryism in Action to discuss the intersection of Christian values and anarchy. The Perrys discuss the challenges in finding a like-minded community, communicating complex ideas, and their transformative ideological journey. The episode also explores homesteading, self-reliance, and the contentious interpretation of Romans 13 from an anarchist perspective.
The work of Voluntaryism in Action is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of human connection in voluntary charity. This episode offers a unique blend of humor, social commentary, and personal stories, encapsulating the fusion of Christian values and voluntaryism principles.
Connect with the Perrys:
Website
Podcast: Voluntary View Spotify, iTunes
Youtube
Key Moments:
00:02 Exploring Christian Anarchism and Voluntaryism
01:11 The Reach of the Bad Roman
09:08 Duck Eggs and Freshly Laid Eggs
15:22 Military Transition to Anarchism & Non-Judgmental Dialogue
23:13 Christian Anarchism and the Bad Project
26:41 Facebook Thread Drama and Miscommunication
30:05 Understanding Anarchy and Romans 13 (11 Minutes)
33:57 Not Voting and Complaining About Government
38:41 Voluntarism and Anarchy
41:22 - Religion, Government, and Accountability
49:57 Christian Anarchism and Voluntaryism Action
55:42 Voluntaryism (14 Minutes)
57:07 Obtaining & Maintaining 501(c)3 Status
01:04:18 Voluntaryism in Action
01:09:36 Discussion on Voluntaryism in Action (08 Minutes)
01:11:39 Twitter Campaigns and Content Restrictions
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-100
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
SUPPORT THE SHOW: thebadroman.com/donate
Thursday Jan 04, 2024
Thursday Jan 04, 2024
Could the intertwining of faith and state authority be warping the very soul of Christianity? Unlock the complexities of Christian nationalism as we sit down for a round table to dissect the idolatrous juxtaposition of faith and governance. This episode dissects the potential hazards of conflating faith with state authority and how this can distort genuine religious practice and the core tenets of Christianity itself.
Join your host, Craig Harguess, along with friends of the show Chris Polk, Cody Cook, Paul Parayil, and Darren Freidinger, who help us peel back the layers of entanglement to reveal the true call of Faith. Witness a bold examination of Christian nationalism's historical claims and current implications in the realm of politics and social justice.
As echoes of January 6th reverberate through the national consciousness, we scrutinize its portrayal as a Christian nationalist insurrection and the subsequent impact on political landscapes. The breach, the media's narrative, and the political fallout are dissected with a critical lens, contrasting the motives behind these actions with the broader implications for American society. We confront the seductive pull of cultural identity and the struggle to prioritize important global issues over trivial cultural squabbles.
Through this dialogue, we strive to foster a deeper understanding of how a desire for a 'Christian nation' impacts both the spiritual body of Christ and our broader societal fabric. With a laid-back yet critical approach, we discuss the importance of curiosity and questioning in religious communities, advocating for meaningful action against social injustices rather than getting lost in cultural distractions. The panel lays out a thought-provoking journey through the contradictions of Christian nationalism, inviting you to reflect, question, and expand your understanding of faith in the public square.
The digital age has transformed the battleground of ideas, and we explore the challenges of engaging in meaningful discourse on social media amid generational technology. As we draw to a close, we advocate for deeper awareness and action, urging listeners not to be sidetracked by fleeting controversies but to remain steadfast in the pursuit of no king but Christ. Tune in for a thought-provoking journey through the contradictions and complexities of Christian nationalism.
00:02 Christian Nationalism and Its Contradictions05:11 Christian Nationalism and the New Covenant15:20 Christian Nationalism and State Role27:52 The Impact of Christian Nationalism33:13 January 6th and Christian Nationalism Discussion43:54 Exploring Christian Nationalism in Politics58:49 Challenges of Social Media Discourse01:08:32 Christian Nationalism and Cultural Identity
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-99
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
SUPPORT THE SHOW: thebadroman.com/donate
Thursday Dec 21, 2023
Weed and Jesus a Christian Roundtable
Thursday Dec 21, 2023
Thursday Dec 21, 2023
Prepare to transcend the common clichés, examining the plant's societal, legal, and religious implications. In this insightful episode of the Bad Roman Podcast, host CraigHarguess, alongside guests Scott, Aaron, Jim, and William, delves into the multifaceted world of marijuana.
The team critically assesses the war on drugs, the impact of government propaganda, and the potential medical uses of marijuana, contrasting it with widely accepted substances like pharmaceuticals and alcohol. From a Christian viewpoint, they explore marijuana's role within God's creation, interpreting scriptures and theological perspectives to challenge traditional beliefs.
This episode aims to dismantle prevailing stigmas, encouraging listeners to reconsider the complexities of state power, legality, and morality in relation to cannabis use. Join this explorative journey for an enlightening conversation that promises to shift perceptions and deepen understanding of marijuana's place in society and religion.
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-98
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
SUPPORT THE SHOW: thebadroman.com/donate
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Christianity Unpacked in ”Good Neighbor, Bad Citizen” with Domenic Scarcella
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Are we forgetting the rebellious, defiant nature of Jesus? Have we overlooked his active resistance to the political and religious hierarchies of his time, and his challenging calls for us to be good neighbors rather than good citizens? That's what we'll be unpacking in our fascinating conversation with our guest, Domenic Scarcella, author of the book "Good Neighbor, Bad Citizen".
Domenic provides an intriguing reading of Jesus' teachings, bringing to light the elements that often get overlooked in contemporary Christianity. We dissect the Stations of the Cross, Jesus's nonviolent resistance, and how to use his book as a tool for contemplation.
As we journey through these narratives, we confront the controversial topic of police violence and its relationship to the Christian faith. This episode holds some challenging viewpoints that question the traditional support of law enforcement and military by modern Christians. The non-violent teachings of Jesus and his brutal treatment by the 'good cops' of his day serve as the crux of this discussion. We highlight that violence, be it personal or outsourced, remains a contradiction to the teachings of Jesus, and is thus a sin.
We also carve out time to talk about the unfathomable nature of God, and the significance of the Holy Spirit, offering some new food for thought on the intersection of faith and politics. Domenic gives us a glimpse into his new sub-stack, extending an invitation to join the ongoing conversation about Christian ethics. As we round off, we reflect on the essence of community, shared faith, and why being both a good neighbor and a bad citizen, as Jesus was, might just be the unconventional perspective we need today. This is one episode that is sure to challenge your perspectives and spark spirited discussions. Tune in, and let's question together!
Connect with Domenic:
Get the book!
Follow his Substack - Good Neighbor, Bad Citizen
Twitter (X) @GoodNeighBadCit
Starting Points:
(00:00) Jesus' Way of the Cross(12:07) Stations of the Cross in Christianity(26:02) Contemporary Christianity and the Nature of Christ(34:28) Cross and Nonviolence(45:05) Reflections on the Cross Stations(53:35) Correcting Bad Theology, Bible Importance(56:59) Good Cops and Violence in Christianity(01:07:22) Holy Spirit and Book Promotion(01:11:28) Faith and Community Conversation
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-97
Blog submissions: thebadroman.com/contribute-to-the-blog
Connect with us on social: thebadroman.com/social-links
Want to get more involved? Request to join the private discussion group on Facebook (Bad Romans Only!!)
No King but Christ Network: nokingbutchristnetwork.com
SUPPORT THE SHOW: thebadroman.com/donate