Talkin‘ Politics & Religion Without Killin‘ Each Other

"If we lived in the poorest, most dangerous neighborhoods, we’d understand better how to love and serve." — Dr. Kurt Ver Beek

It was great to sit down with Dr. Kurt Ver Beek, co-founder of the Association for a More Just Society (ASJ), who has lived and worked in Honduras for nearly four decades. From battling systemic corruption to reducing the homicide rate in one of the world’s most dangerous communities, Kurt shares a riveting account of faith in action and public justice rooted in Christian conviction.

We explore the difference between traditional missionary work and systemic transformation, how theological frameworks can drive bold action, and why brave Christianity is needed now more than ever.

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⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics:

• [00:00:00] Introduction to Dr. Kurt Ver Beek and ASJ

• [00:01:00] Childhood influences: Christian values and political curiosity

• [00:04:00] Faith formation and a growing “allergy” to injustice

• [00:08:00] Moving beyond charity to systemic change

• [00:14:00] What it really means to "help the poor"

• [00:23:00] Corruption, extortion, and the story of a neighborhood pillow maker

• [00:29:00] How three hired staff helped significantly reduce local homicides

• [00:34:00] Raising funds for justice: why it’s not as hard as people think

• [00:40:00] Theology of safety vs. theology of love and proximity

• [00:47:00] Political influence without being politically compromised

• [00:53:00] From 113 to 218 school days: measurable education reform

• [01:00:00] What we can do: curiosity, courage, and conversation

• [01:02:00] Practicing politics and faith with gentleness and respect

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🧠 Key Takeaways:

• Systemic Change Is Possible: Justice doesn't always take decades. Hiring an ex-cop and a lawyer helped reduce homicides dramatically.

• Faith Isn’t Just About Sundays: Living out the Gospel means transforming systems that harm the vulnerable.

• Corruption and Violence Are Addressable: Real change can happen when Christians take bold, strategic action.

• Don’t Underestimate Funders: Donors care about results — and systemic justice produces them.

• Bravery Is Biblical: The call to be brave Christians isn’t optional — it’s essential.

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💬 Notable Quotes:

“Being a Christian doesn't have to look like what many young people see today.” — Kurt Ver Beek
“The lie is that systemic change is too hard — it’s not. It just takes brave Christians.” — Kurt Ver Beek
“No place in the Bible does it say to be safe. It says to love your neighbor.” — Kurt Ver Beek
“Be curious. Listen better. People aren't as crazy as you think.” — Kurt Ver Beek

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📚 Mentioned Books and Resources:

• 📖 Call for Justice by Kurt Ver Beek & Nicholas Wolterstorff

• 📘 Bear Witness by Ross Halpern – (Kurt says it’s “90% on the money!”)

• 🌐 Learn more about ASJ: asj-us.org

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Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. ✌️🙏