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 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
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
Palestinian Christians: Untold Stories from the Ground with Daniel Bannoura
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
Get ready for an insightful and heart-wrenching journey as we chat with Daniel Benora, a Christian Palestinian, who gives us an inside look into the longstanding conflict between Israel and Palestine. With a direct line to the ground reality, Daniel candidly shares the pain and terror experienced by his friends and family in Gaza due to Israeli attacks. Hear the unfiltered narrative of Palestinians, both Christian and Muslim, who have been overshadowed in the Western world, as we delve into the complexities of this ongoing strife.
Daniel courageously unravels the obscured narrative of Palestinians, both Christian and Muslim, demonstrating the importance of understanding the dynamics of this ongoing strife. How do we stay informed when the Western media narrative leans heavily in favor of one side? The conversation deepens as we probe into the biased portrayal of the Middle East in the media, exposing its racist undertones. Together with Daniel, we dissect the colonial mentality and its aftermath, scrutinizing how it frames the Middle East as backward and violent. We also delve into the implications of Zionism, the British Empire's role in Jewish migration to Palestine, opening up the discussion to the way it's used to justify violence against Palestinians.
As we draw toward the end of our conversation, we venture into the stormy waters of violence, faith, and pacifism within the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Daniel reveals the inspiring ways Palestinian Christians channel faith into nonviolent resistance against injustice. We wrap up by challenging the misconceptions surrounding God and his people, urging Christians to seek truth, justice, and love over violence and ignorance.
Join us as we reveal how the media, the US government, and the Church perpetuate this idea, all the while emphasizing the importance of nuance in understanding this conflict. Here's a chance to challenge your perspectives and possibly transform your understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian plight.
Resources Shared:
Across the Divide Podcast
Google Docs Resource
Starting Points:
(00:02) The Israel-Palestine Conflict
(10:29) Understanding Gaza and Palestinian Identity
(14:26) Christian Palestinian Identity and Ignorance
(18:39) Western Media's Middle East Bias
(27:34) Influence on Israeli-Palestinian Conflict by Politics, Media, Religion
(39:59) Violence and Pacifism in Israeli-Palestinian
(53:13) The Palestinian Christian Perspective
(58:41) Misrepresentation of God and His People
(01:03:08) Jesus and the Old Testament
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-96
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 Nov 09, 2023
Palestinians, American-Christians, and Israeli Occupation with Jeffery Stevens
Thursday Nov 09, 2023
Thursday Nov 09, 2023
Tune in for an insightful conversation with Jeffrey Stevens, an independent journalist and director of the Azarius Project, as we take a hard look at the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory and the impact it's having on the Christian and other communities within these borders. Hear firsthand about the misinformation circulating among Christian Americans and learn about Jeffrey's own transformation from being pro-Israel to acknowledging the impossibility of supporting both Israel and the sanctity of life simultaneously.
If you’re one of us, or you’re new here, you should know that there has always been a personal journey at the heart of The Bad Roman Project. It’s been one that's demanded a complete overhaul of previous beliefs. A path paved with discomfort while challenging long-held perceptions and demanding an honest reassessment of Christian values. As always, there's so much more to the story than what's on the surface and what’s important is that we talk about it.
While mainstream media often skews the reality on the ground, our conversation challenges those narratives and scrutinizes the role of the US and Israeli governments in perpetuating the inhumane policies of the occupation. In this uncompromising discourse, we're asking the hard questions, discussing who gets to define terrorism, examining the treatment of Palestinians (both Muslim and Christian), and unlocking the transformative power of relationships to remedy bias in our perspectives.
But our journey doesn't stop there. In this episode, we're bringing the focus back home, because change starts on your doorstep. We discuss the importance of evangelizing in our own neighborhoods and fostering a personal relationship with Jesus. Be prepared for a lively debate on what Jesus' stance would be of his birthland today and the recognition that the world is indeed larger than just the United States. So, buckle up and come along for an enlightening, perhaps life-altering ride with us.
Connect with Jeffery:
Catholic Workers Project
Azarias Project
Arab American News
Catholic Wordsmith
Starting Points:
1:05 Correct framing as the illegal Occupation vs. the Israel-Palestine Conflict
4:52 Who is Jeffery Stevens?
8:08 Conviction of USA and Israel as the “good guys” against terrorism
15:16 Where the End of the Earth Begins article on The Catholic Wordsmith
28:10 Who is funding Israel?
33:44 Jenin [on] the Fourth from Arab American News
48:51 The World is Bigger than the USA
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-95
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 Oct 26, 2023
Jujitsu, God and Taking Health Seriously with Adam Braud
Thursday Oct 26, 2023
Thursday Oct 26, 2023
Imagine having a personal trainer, functional nutritionist, author, and pastor all rolled into one guest. Well, we certainly did! Join us as we get up close and personal with Adam Braud, a man who has dedicated over three decades to Christian ministry and uniquely combines it with his passion for health and fitness.
Using Adam’s book Faith and Fitness: Integrating Physical Health and Spiritual Growth As we navigate through the discussion, we dissect the pivotal role of lifestyle choices in shaping our holistic health. We unwrap how taking care of our bodies can lead to a more fulfilling life and deeper self-perception and what that has to do with Jesus. Adam broadens our understanding of stewardship, shedding light on its significance beyond mere physicality. Adam provides insight into the significance of disciplined health goals, good sleep, and self-care that goes beyond surface-level or guru-style health advice.
We wrap up this enlightening episode by debunking health myths and discussing diets and weight loss strategies. Are you curious about the cold plunges or intermittent fasting? Adam's insightful advice on tailoring health strategies and tools to individual needs will clear your doubts. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or a health journey newbie, this conversation is an excellent guide to caring for your physical body as part of your spiritual growth. So tune in and be inspired to better steward your health!
Connect with Adam Braud:
E-Book
Adam's Website
Instagram
Facebook
Starting Points and Key Moments:
1:41 Who is Adam?
3:15 Health Awakening of Covid
7:10 Faith and Fitness
24:40 Diseases of Lifestyle and Affluence
30:50 Three Major Reasons Christians Nelgect Caring for Their Physical Body
39:29 Living like an unsupervised kid with diet and sleep
53:48 One-size-fits-all plan for diet? Practical Advice to guide your life
1:00:27 Intermittent Fasting & Cold Plunging
1:11:05 Where to connect with Adam
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-94
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 Oct 12, 2023
Off-Grid Living: American Dreams without Social Security Numbers Keturah Lamb
Thursday Oct 12, 2023
Thursday Oct 12, 2023
Ever thought about life without a social security number? Keturah Lamb is a fourth-generation member of a family choosing to exist outside of the traditional system, Keturah's stories reveal how she and her siblings have cultivated creativity, resourcefulness, and resilience to build the lives they want. She sheds light on how to live a good American dream life without being part of the system, and how it has shaped their worldview and relationships.
We explore Keturah's unique life journey, from her grandpa's stories to her own travels, to her work as a seamstress, writer, public speaker, and more. Listen as she opens up about her projects that bring people together, her stint teaching hand-sewing and embroidery at an off-grid nature preserve, Turtle Island, and how she uses her experiences to connect with people on a deeper level.
Keturah's faith and philosophy form the foundation of her lifestyle, and she talks about her Living Room Academy, which aims to empower women with essential life skills, guiding them towards empowerment.
She shares her nuanced and wise-beyond-her-years thoughts on anarchism, mob mentality, the monopoly on violence, and an active pacifism she sees at the root of true anarchy. From real-life issues to facilitating meaningful shifts in perspectives over meals in her home, Keturah’s experiences are a testament to the vigor of an unconventional way of living. So, if you've been longing for a refreshing view on life, prepare to see the world through a different lens with Keturah Lamb.
Keturah Lamb:
@KeturahAbigal Twitterr (X)
@KeturahAbigal Instgram
Social Porcupine Blog
The Girl Who Doesn’t Exist
Livingroom Academy
Instagram Living Romm Academy
Episode Starting Points:
01:35 Who is Keturah?
03:30 Working in America without a Social Security Number
08:43 The Social Porcupine
18:14 The Girl Who Doesn’t Exist
30:23 Reality of Humans vs. Hate-filled Social Media
33:10 Living Room Academy
38:42 We should free mobs instead of cults
46:04 Does anyone in Keturah’s family think they are crazy?
51:22 Has she always been No King but Christ?
1:01:24 Twitter (x) rules of engagement in debates for sanity
1:11:30 Connect with Keturah Lamb
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-93
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 Sep 28, 2023
Political Corruption, Police, War & Digital Activism with Jason Bassler
Thursday Sep 28, 2023
Thursday Sep 28, 2023
Get ready, as we are joined by Jason Bassler founder of The Free Thought Project and Police the Police for a candid conversation about political corruption, digital activism, and the profound impacts and reach of war. Listen in as Jason shares his transition from libertarian to anarchist, spurred by his experiences during the Occupy Wall Street which also helped catalyze his subsequent dedication to police accountability. He offers an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the Free Thought Project, its evolution, and its unexpected shutdown on major social media platforms in 2012, and its uphill rebuild.
We don't shy away from the hard truths in this episode. We scrutinize the alarming effects of war, corruption, and propaganda on our society. This includes a frank discussion on the startling death toll from the post-9/11 war on terror and the profits made by US contractors. We take a deep look at the Ukrainian War as a potential proxy war, the implications of the military-industrial complex, and the ripple effects of these conflicts across different generations. The power of the internet in how different generations are countering these narratives is a key focus.
Lastly, we expose the uncomfortable realities about the US' militarism, its lack of accountability for war crimes, and the fleeting anti-war stance when candidates ascend to power (and their subsequent escalation of conflicts once they have that power). From Lockheed Martin's sponsorship of a pride parade to the $2300 expat exit fee from a free country, we lay bare the government’s blatant hypocrisy. Jason's reflections on the strength of the internet and the value of criticism as a sign of tough love conclude our conversation on a hopeful note. This episode promises to be a thought-provoking, no-holds-barred exploration into our political landscape and the power of digital activism. Don't miss it!
Connect with Jason:
Jason’s Personal Links
Police the Police Links
Free Thought Project Links
Starting Points:
02:04 Who is Jason Bassler?
11:00 Power of a Platform
20:30 Would society fall into chaos without the police?
26:29 War as an Export
34:37 Exhaustion of Perpetual Wars on the Public Psyche
41:36 Realities of War and Its Perpetrators
01:01:00 Connect with Jason
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-92
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 Sep 14, 2023
Larken Rose Decodes the Potent Themes of the Jones Plantation Film
Thursday Sep 14, 2023
Thursday Sep 14, 2023
What would it look like if we peeled back the curtains of societal discourse and examined the bitter truths often swept under the rug? How would our perspectives shift if we truly understood the power dynamics that govern our world? In a dynamic and insightful discussion, the Bad Roman Project welcomes back Larken Rose to the podcast, as we delve into the thought-provoking themes presented in the Jones Plantation film. Our discussion centers around the film's potent representation of debt, enslavement, and the manipulative nature of political language.
In the latter part of our conversation, we admire the production brilliance behind the Jones Plantation film. From its low-budget brilliance to the unique concept of breaking the fourth wall, we explore how the movie engages its audience in a critical examination of the sociopolitical landscape. Echoing the ethos of the Bad Roman Podcast, we also discuss how the film encourages viewers to think independently, drawing their own conclusions and interpretations.
Finally, we reflect on the reactions to the Jones Plantation film and its potential long-term impact. We examine the significance of the film's symbolism and the truths it presents, prompting viewers to examine their beliefs and biases. As we dissect the captivating symbolism and raw truths embedded in the film, we invite you to join us in this compelling discourse. Prepare to be intrigued by Larken's insightful reflections and ready to engage in a conversation that promises to stir thought and stimulate dialogue.
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-91
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
Larken Rose:
The Most Dangerous Superstition
YouTube
Candles in the Dark
Facebook
The Jones Plantation Film
The Book: https://www.thejonesplantation.com/
Starting Points:
01:04 Larken Rose
4:45 Feedback from Nonanarchists on The Jones Plantation (2023)
9:19 Church Imagery in Movie
13:39 Casting
14:59 Larken’s Role(s) in the film
20:49 Murder of the Child in the Movie (spoiler alert)
28:46 Dissecting the Political Capmgim Scenes in the Film
35:52 Examing the Beating of Samuel in the Film
40:20 Bad Roman Discussion Group Questions
1:00:00 Where to find the film and connect with Larken Rose
Thursday Aug 31, 2023
Thursday Aug 31, 2023
Join Mat, an Aussie pastor, and Phil, a coal miner turned video enthusiast, as they dive deep into global ideological shifts impacting the U.S. and Australia. This episode explores the evolving concept of harm within progressive movements, potential pitfalls of democracy, and the influence of platforms like TikTok on our perceptions. Delve into the nuances of the US-Australia military alliance, the possibilities of U.S. government collapse, and the implications of boundless freedom. Discover contrasts in church-state relations across the U.S. and Australia. Learn about Mat and Phil's podcast The Way of Life and their mission to equip listeners to think critically in an age of herd mentality. Dive in for an enlightening perspective on the Bad Roman podcast, at the intersection of Christianity and politics.
Connect with Mat and Phil:
Facebook Way of Life Podcast
Youtube Way of Life Podcast
Spotify Way of Life Podcast
Apple Way of Life Podcast
Starting Points:
01:39 Mat’s Background
05:33 Phil’s Background
09:25 Leaving Mainstream Media for Alternative Sources
15:14 Shifting Definition of Harm among generations
25:19 Australian and US Government Alliance
45:37 How Australian churches Interact with Government
50:51 Way of Life Podcast
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-90
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 Aug 10, 2023
Navigating Revivals in Christianity with Cody Cook
Thursday Aug 10, 2023
Thursday Aug 10, 2023
Why is it that religious revivals often spark controversy within the very community they aim to uplift? And how can we bridge the chasm between differing interpretations of faith within Christianity? Join host Craig Harguess, as he sits down with theology major and Christian anarchist, Cody Cook, for a thought-provoking conversation on the Asbury revival and the stir it caused among fellow Christians. We delve into the fervor of the event, its resistance among some Christians, and its relation to the Great Awaking and other revivals, examining why Cody and I found ourselves more than okay with this revival.
In our discussion, we draw parallels between the Asbury revival and the Great Awakening from the 1740s. We ponder on the nature of revival and what it could mean when God moves amongst a group of people. As we sift through the criticisms and controversies surrounding these revivals, we grapple with the reactions of different Christian sects, questioning the rigid definitions of revival. We unlock insights into why the Asbury revival resonated with so many, and the potential implications it holds for us today.
Finally, Cody and Craig put the spotlight on the importance of inclusivity and respect within the Christian community. We challenge our understanding of the Christian faith and the ways to reconcile our differences. We reflect on how we can extend an open invitation to newcomers to the faith without stymieing their spiritual journey. This episode of the Bad Roman Podcast invites you to contemplate faith, revivals, and Christian controversies in a new light. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us as we navigate these intriguing topics with Cody Cook.
Starting Points:
01:06 Who is Cody?
03:05 Asbury Methodist University
08:32 What’s a real revival?
13:29 Cody’s Facebook Post on the Asbury Skepticism Among Christians
24:03 Great Awaking Compared to Asbury
32:12 Jesus Revolution movie pushback at the same time
41:34 Healthy Skeptisim
53:03 Cody’s Plugs
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-89
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 Jul 27, 2023
Journeys of Faith: Unpacking Eschatology with Micah and John of City Square Podcast
Thursday Jul 27, 2023
Thursday Jul 27, 2023
Have you ever questioned your beliefs about the end times? Have you ever wondered about the different strands of eschatological thought and how they emerged? Strap in for a fascinating discussion with John and Micah, hosts of the City Square Podcast on eschatology. Listen in as we get into the heart of eschatology, a topic we've not extensively covered on the Bad Roman Podcast. It's an enlightening conversation filled with personal experiences, exciting insights, and a friendly rivalry over football.
Ready to expand your horizons? We explore different eschatological views, how popular culture influences these perspectives(The Left Behind Series), and the history of alternative beliefs and teachings. Hear about the three main views of eschatology (Amill, Pre-Mill, and Post-Mill), the interpretations of Christ's return, and the role of critical thinking and discernment in religious belief. We deconstruct the emergence of dispensationalism, where it came from, and its wide acceptance today.
But that’s not all! We’re pulling back the curtain on the City Square Podcast, revealing its conception, production, and mission. Hear how everyday people share stories of their faith and labor, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of human experience. We'll also discuss the bearing of eschatology on one's life and the potential it holds to shape our view of the world. With John and Micah as our guides, we journey through a landscape of belief, religion, and personal perspectives in this enlightening and entertaining episode.
Connect with our guests Micah and John:
Facebook
Instagram
Youtube
Spotify
For more on this episode and The Bad Roman Project:
For Full Show Notes: https://www.thebadroman.com/show-notes/episode-88
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