New Persuasive Words

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, we trace the dramatic rise and fall of the liberal democratic order that shaped the world after the Cold War. Between 1988 and 2003, liberal democracy flourished, free trade expanded, and a rules-based international order took root. But by 2014, that world was coming apart.

We explore how the 2008 financial crisis, endless wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the meteoric rise of authoritarian China shattered the pillars of the old consensus. And we follow the thread through the global convulsions of 2014—Putin’s annexation of Crimea, Modi’s election, ISIS’s rise, and the wave of right-wing populism that would soon sweep across Europe and America.

Now, in the era of Trump’s second act, we consider what it means to live in a “shadow world”—where liberal democracy shades into authoritarianism, free trade gives way to protectionism, and power, not principle, shapes international relations.

It’s a story of transformation, disillusionment, and the uncertain road ahead.

Much of the insights from this podcast come from Rory Stewart's recent conversation with Jon Stewart. You can watch the conversation here.

In this episode of the New Persuasive Words podcast, we reflect on the life, legacy, and passing of Pope Francis. From his unexpected election as the first Jesuit pope and first from the Global South, to his efforts to shift the tone of the Catholic Church toward mercy, justice, and care for the marginalized—Pope Francis was a singular figure in a time of deep cultural and religious change. We discuss what his papacy meant for both Catholics and non-Catholics alike, how he navigated the complexities of modernity with humility and courage, and what his death might mean for the future of the Church and the world.

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, we reflect on the meaning of Holy Saturday—the in-between day of waiting, silence, and uncertainty. We explore its theological significance, its emotional resonance in times of personal and collective loss, and what it can teach us about living faithfully in the tension between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Join us as we consider how Holy Saturday might speak to our contemporary moment, inviting us to sit with mystery, grief, and hope.

In this episode of the podcast, recorded on Holy Wednesday—also known as Spy Wednesday—we turn our attention to one of the most enigmatic and troubling figures in the story of Jesus: Judas Iscariot. Traditionally remembered as the day Judas conspired to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, Spy Wednesday invites us to reflect not only on the act of betrayal, but on the deeper questions it raises about loyalty, fate, forgiveness, and the role of evil in a redemptive story. What do we make of Judas? Was he a necessary part of the divine plan, or simply a tragic figure lost to greed and disillusionment? Join us as we explore the complexity of Judas’s role and what it means for how we understand the Passion narrative today.

In this episode of the podcast, we talk a little bit about Holy Monday—the often-overlooked day in Holy Week that nonetheless carries rich theological and spiritual significance. We reflect on the stories and symbols associated with the day, and what they might have to say to us in our own moment. Join us as we explore how the drama of Holy Week continues to speak to faith, justice, and the human condition.

In this episode of the podcast, we explore the political implications of Palm Sunday. Far from being a quaint prelude to Easter, Palm Sunday is a dramatic act of public protest—Jesus' entry into Jerusalem is a deliberate, provocative counter-procession to the powers of this world. We unpack how this story speaks to the tension between religious hope and political realism, between divine kingship and human authority. What does it mean to follow a king who rides a donkey? And how might Palm Sunday reframe our understanding of power, resistance, and public witness in a time of political uncertainty? Join us as we reflect on the subversive message at the heart of Holy Week.

In this episode of the podcast, recorded as Trump delivered his "liberation day" address, we wrestle with a fundamental question at the heart of American political life: what happens when a society loses its sense of meaning? Inspired by a striking passage from Robert Jenson’s Story and Promise, we explore the creeping influence of nihilism in our political culture—how it erodes trust, hollows out institutions, and leaves us grasping for narratives that can hold us together.

Is there a way forward? Can we recover a sense of shared purpose in an era of cynicism and fracture? Join us as we take a thoughtful, clear-eyed look at the challenge ahead and consider what it will take to rebuild faith—not just in politics, but in the very idea of a common good.

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, hosts Bill and Scott examine a provocative argument by conservative commentator Charlie Sykes, who contends that former President Donald Trump is engaged in a war with Christianity. Through a discussion of Sykes’ assertions, they explore the broader implications for the Republican Party, the religious right, and the shifting landscape of faith in American politics. With thoughtful commentary and historical context, this discussion sheds light on the tensions between political allegiance and theological integrity in the Trump era.

You can find the link to the Sykes piece here.

In this episode we delve into theologian Graham Tomlin’s thought-provoking article, “Blaise Pascal is Haunting Our Unbelieving Age.” With the modern world increasingly defined by skepticism and a crisis of meaning, we explore how Pascal’s insights—his Pensées, his famous wager, and his reflections on faith and reason—speak powerfully to our contemporary moment. How does a 17th-century polymath continue to shape our understanding of belief and doubt? And why does his voice seem more urgent than ever? Join us as we unpack Pascal’s enduring influence in a world searching for certainty.

In this episode, we examine a provocative question: Is Donald Trump a modern-day Constantine, ushering in a new era of promise for the Christian church in America? For his supporters, Trump has championed religious freedom, strengthened the political influence of Christian institutions, and waged a culture war against what they see as rising secular hostility. His administration’s faith-based initiatives and efforts to combat perceived anti-Christian bias have fueled comparisons to the Roman emperor who legitimized Christianity.

Yet, critics argue that Trump’s policies have had unintended consequences, from cuts to faith-based social services to renewed debates over church-state separation. Some analysts even suggest that his polarizing rhetoric has contributed to a decline in church attendance. As the nation navigates the intersection of politics and faith, we explore whether Trump’s legacy aligns with Constantine’s—or if the comparison reveals deeper tensions within the American religious landscape.

Join us as we unravel this complex and controversial debate.

Our conversation was inspired by this piece by Graham Tomlin, which we reference throughout the episode.