563: How Rapture Theology Shaped America (Part 1)

Many Christians in America simply assume that Jesus could return at any moment, that believers will be raptured in the twinkling of an eye, that the state of Israel has a special role in the End Times, and that the church should just save souls and stay out of politics. In Part 1 of an interview about this new book, historian Daniel G. Hummel explains to Phil how this rapture theology isn't rooted in church history, but was invented by a British layman less than 200 years ago. And why it was embraced by American pastors during the Civil War who wanted to avoid talking about slavery, race, and reconstruction. Also this week—paganism is on the rise. Who is really killing public schools? And women will win the battle of the sexes in 4.6 million years. Patreon Bonus: Christian Asks - What Happens to Non-Christians When They Die? https://www.patreon.com/posts/82415424/ Defined Terms to Know for This Week's Interview Millennium - The thousand year reign of Christ described in Revelation 20:1-8. There are basically three understandings of this: Premillennialism - (Think Left Behind book series) Christians will be raptured, leaving behind everyone else. There will be a tribulation period w…