A New Kind of Conservative
by Joel C. Hunter
Published by Regal Book
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Reviewed by Leslie Frederick
Joel Hunter is a man with a mission. He is ready to see Americans once again embrace the Founding Fathers’ passion for politics with reason and maturity as hallmarks of our political character, setting aside name calling and extremism. He would like to see the definition of Christian conservative encompass more than confrontational sound bytes by opinionated individuals determined to paint all evangelical Americans with a very black and white brush.
Stating that there is more to Christian politics then the hot topics of abortion and gay-marriage, Hunter speaks to a balanced tone of conservatism that encourages looking at the political venue as a way to “render to Caesar the which is Caesar’s” in keeping with Jesus’ admonition to all disciples. He defines that as more than just the customary rendering of money; saying we are to be measured by our preparation and participation in the process, especially being informed voters. In addition, Hunter would like to see the political conservative landscape broaden to include work in the areas of poverty, injustice, pollution and disease where Christians can have both a positive political influence and a strong social impact.
Hunter’s broader view of politics makes for an encouraging landscape for those who have previously viewed the Christian’s political view as one of narrow mindsets and hard line rhetoric. Scriptural support for the approach makes this a valuable tool for churches to use in adult Sunday school classes or in a workshop setting that helps Christians define their roles as citizens and people of faith.
Noting that this is not an impossible dichotomy, Hunter is as his best when he shows how we are called to be a voice for both our faith and a reasoned citizenship. In Christ, we find both compassion and concern and it is these traits that we, as Christians, can best use in the political arena for the benefit of all Americans, no matter what their religious philosophy.
Armchair Interviews says: Important read in this election year.