How Politics Poisoned the Evangelical Church + Today’s Digest

Our daily rundown of the articles from around the web that we feel our readers would enjoy and appreciate. We hope to highlight the best of what’s around. Public Square Bulletin recommends: Jesus’ Alternative to Self-Esteem H. Wallace Goddard—Meridian Magazine While the gospel has some similarities with the self-esteem movement, Goddard, a parenting expert, looks at the research, and suggests that there may be weaknesses to the self-esteem movement that the gospel can rectify. Religion and the American Constitutional Experiment John Witte Jr.—Canopy Forum An excerpt from the upcoming book of the same name, this fascinating take gives a whirlwind tour of religious freedom, the role the founders and courts have played in developing it, and what we might expect in the next decade. The Perils of Heterodoxy Adam M. Wakeling—Areo Increasingly the information we get is filtered through a smaller and smaller group of individuals, so being independent-minded is important. But this route also comes with dangers that, left unchecked, could prove problematic. Exercising the Virtues Allen Porter—Law & Liberty Physical fitness is an important expression of a virtuous life. The patterns we develop should be consciously chosen and acted on and should be done to shape our minds and bodies in accordance with a higher purpose. Six Theologians Every Thoughtful Person Should Read Bruce Riley Ashford—First Things Excuse the uncharacteristic click-bait headline. This article outlines some of the most influential thinkers in orthodox Christian thought. While none come from the Church of Jesus Christ, each makes thoughtful observations that can not only increase your inter-faith understanding but provide fresh insights into your own faith as well.