‘There is a social and theological problem within white U.S. evangelicalism, in which churches have either tied the faith too closely to national identity and political power, or treated politics as something best avoided, says Huckins. He continues: ‘Both approaches have contributed to paving the way for Trumpist evangelicalism.’
An alternative to political polarisation
‘I wanted to understand how these two patterns have developed, what effects they have had on American public life, and what a healthier alternative might be. My research aims not only to analyse, but also to offer direction for change.’
Personal motivation and academic background
The motivation for Huckins’ research is both personal and academic. ‘As someone formed within white evangelicalism, I have come to see the limits of this political theology. This has come through my relationships with people most affected by injustice. These include communities in Palestine/Israel, along the US–Mexico border, and immigrants in the United States. This research is my attempt to understand that history honestly and to articulate a more just and faithful political ethic for a growing community of post-evangelicals.'
The Brown Church tradition and dissenting evangelicals offer an alternative
Huckins’ research shows that the crisis within white U.S. evangelical politics is not only a story of failure, but also one of neglected alternatives. ‘Latin American and other Brown Church traditions, together with dissident evangelicals within the broader movement, have long offered another way of being Christian in public life. This is less shaped by power and nationalism, and more by justice, community and responsibility towards one’s neighbour.’
Post-evangelical political ethic as an alternative
A healthier public faith practice is, according to Huckins, possible. ‘I propose a post-evangelical political ethic that encourages Christians to face the truth about history, to listen to those most affected by injustice, to resist a politics of fear, and to practise a more humble, faithful and justice-oriented public witness.’ According to Huckins, this provides churches, leaders and faith communities with a clearer framework for rethinking how Christians engage in public life.
Relevant and directly applicable in practice
Huckins: ‘This is directly relevant to contemporary issues such as Christian nationalism, polarisation, immigration, racial inequality and the fragility of democracy.’ According to Huckins concrete application lies in leadership formation: seminaries, churches and Christian organisations can use this framework to equip leaders for more faithful public engagement. ‘A church responding to immigration debates, for example, can go beyond slogans and choose listening, solidarity and advocacy alongside affected communities. These applications can begin immediately.”
Research method: analysis and ethics
Huckins’ research consisted of historical analysis, close study of literature and constructive theological ethics. ‘First, I examined how two key political patterns within white U.S. evangelicalism have developed over time by studying key texts, leaders, movements and public events. I then analysed voices that offer alternative models of Christian engagement in public life, particularly from Brown Church traditions and dissident evangelicals. Finally, I brought these findings together to propose a constructive alternative for the present.’