This week, Granger and AntMan continue their discussion following the reaction to last week's episode on the "Islamic invasion," sparked partly by the election of a Muslim mayor in New York City. Granger shares the intense negative feedback he received, which accused him of being "weak, passive, compromising, and soft" for his stance. He emphasizes the need for constant correction and accountability through Scripture, questioning the call for Christians to "mount up arms and fight against this as they did in the Crusades".

 

The conversation delves into the concept of meekness, which is often misunderstood as weakness in America. Granger explains its ancient Near East context as "power under control" , comparing it to a fiercely strong, tamed mustang that trusts its warrior master enough to charge fearlessly into enemy lines. This idea of controlled strength is contrasted with simply "bucking" or instinctively fighting. AntMan contributes to this by linking it to self-control and the strength required to filter reactions through God's Word rather than reacting instantly in the flesh.

 

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the core Christian command to love your neighbor and love your enemy. Granger argues that this command has no stipulations, even if the enemy "wants you dead". He challenges listeners to see the presence of foreign cultures, like a Muslim family moving down the street, not as an invasion but as a mission field. They discuss how the fear-based reaction often stems from protecting "suburban life" and comfort, which can become an idol. Granger draws a historical parallel between modern "feel-good Christians" and 19th-century slaveholders who practiced a cheap form of Christianity while maintaining a cruel and comfortable lifestyle.

 

Finally, they tackle the notion of "fighting evil". AntMan stresses that the true fight is a spiritual one, using the "sword of the Bible" and prayer for God's will to open the hearts of non-believers. Granger dismisses the common call to be like Nehemiah, building with a tool in one hand and a sword (or "Glock") in the other, arguing this misapplies Old Testament Israel's context to modern-day America. They conclude by urging listeners to embrace the uncomfortable and ask the ultimate question: "What happens if I love them?".

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.