In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, I sit down with Darin Stidd, a former pastor turned grassroots political activist with Young Americans for Liberty. Darin brings a rare combination of pastoral heart, sharp theology, and boots-on-the-ground political experience.

Together, we tackle some of the most pressing questions Christians are asking right now:

• Should Christians really care about politics if Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world”?

• What does Romans 13 actually teach about submission to government?

• How should we think about separation of church and state?

• Why “just preach the gospel” is a gnostic distortion of Christianity.

• What ordinary Christians can do to push back against tyranny without running for office.

• Why most politicians don’t care about right and wrong — and how Christians can still force them to do the right thing.

• How just 3% plus one of engaged citizens can change the course of politics in your state.

  
  

Derin is convinced that Christians must bring their theology into the public square and learn to wield power in ways that honor Christ. This conversation will challenge you to think biblically, act courageously, and refuse to sit on the Stiddelines.

If you’re in the Northern Kentucky / Greater Cincinnati area, join us Saturday, October 25, 2025 for a free seminar with Derin Stidd:

Obey God, Defy Tyrants: A Grassroots Theology of Politics

📍 Christ the King Church, Fort Thomas, KY

🕘 9 AM – 12 PM

💻 Register here

Subscribe to the podcast and share this episode if you believe Christians need to stop retreating and start standing boldly for truth in the public square.

00:00 The Reality of Political Motivations

00:49 Introduction to Derin Stidd

04:15 Christians and Political Involvement

14:10 The Misinterpretation of 'Separation of Church and State'

21:03 The Role of Christians in Government

31:51 Understanding Government and Citizen Power

32:56 Practical Steps for Political Engagement

34:49 Biblical Perspective on Government Authority

41:10 The Role of Christians in Politics

42:47 The Reality of Political Systems

49:33 Effective Political Strategies for Christians

56:23 Final Thoughts and Event Information