Jesus and John Wayne: The Transformation of White Evangelicalism
Unveiling the Reinvention of Faith, Masculinity, and Nationalism
In "Jesus and John Wayne," acclaimed scholar Kristin Du Mez takes readers on a thought-provoking journey through the last seventy-five years of white evangelicalism. Exploring the profound impact of popular culture on contemporary American evangelicalism, Du Mez reveals how evangelical subculture has replaced the compassionate Jesus of the Gospels with a rugged idol of masculinity and Christian nationalism. From VeggieTales to bestselling books like "Wild at Heart," the beliefs of millions have been shaped by evangelical media and merchandise. This sweeping and revisionist history delves into the rise of muscular heroes, such as John Wayne, Oliver North, Ronald Reagan, Mel Gibson, and the Duck Dynasty clan, who have become icons of white masculine power defending a vision of "Christian America."
In "Jesus and John Wayne," Kristin Du Mez explores the intricate relationship between white evangelicalism and popular culture over the past seventy-five years. By immersing readers in the world of contemporary American evangelicalism, Du Mez unravels a profound transformation that has taken place, redefining the faith's core principles and impacting the wider American society.
Du Mez begins by shining a light on the central role of popular culture in shaping the beliefs of modern evangelicals. Drawing examples from influential media like VeggieTales and John Eldredge's bestselling book "Wild at Heart," she reveals how seemingly innocuous elements have contributed to the creation of a distinctly evangelical subculture. From an early age, evangelicals have been immersed in a culture that prioritizes notions of purity, rugged masculinity, and an aggressive defense of Christian values.
Throughout the book, Du Mez introduces readers to a pantheon of muscular heroes who have become legends within the evangelical subculture. These figures, including Oliver North, Ronald Reagan, Mel Gibson, and the Duck Dynasty clan, embody the ideal of white masculine power, advocating for a vision of America grounded in Christian principles. Chief among these icons is the legendary John Wayne, symbolizing a bygone era when men were unapologetically candid, politically incorrect, and willing to take action.
Contrary to popular belief, Du Mez challenges the assumption that white evangelicals supported Donald Trump in 2016 and 2020 solely for pragmatic reasons. Instead, she argues that Trump's rise to power aligned with and fulfilled the deepest values held by white evangelicals. These values encompass patriarchy, authoritarian rule, aggressive foreign policy, fear of Islam, ambivalence toward movements like #MeToo, and opposition to the Black Lives Matter movement and the LGBTQ community. By examining these underlying motivations, "Jesus and John Wayne" offers a timely reexamination of one of the most influential subcultures in America.
Through her meticulous research and analysis, Du Mez exposes the stark divergence between the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels and the constructed faith of modern white evangelicals. This transformation, deeply rooted in popular culture, carries enduring consequences for all Americans. "Jesus and John Wayne" challenges readers to confront the remaking of faith and its impact on society, inviting critical reflection on the direction of contemporary American evangelicalism ,Emma, a curious and adventurous young woman, stumbled upon this hidden gem one gloomy afternoon. Drawn to the enigmatic aura that emanated from the bookstore, she stepped inside, unaware of the life-altering journey that awaited her.
Behind the counter stood an elderly man named Mr. Whitaker, the guardian of this extraordinary collection. With twinkling eyes and a knowing smile, he greeted Emma warmly, sensing her yearning for something greater. Mr. Whitaker explained that each book in the store held a story unlike any other, with the potential to alter the course of destiny for those who dared to read them.
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