Howerton Accuses McLaughlin of Undermining Christian Faith
On his Live Free podcast, Lakepointe Church pastor Josh Howerton harshly criticized YouTuber Rhett McLaughlin, accusing him of “gaslighting Christians” and promoting unbelief. According to Howerton, McLaughlin represents a growing threat: a deconverted ex-Christian who now works to pull others away from faith. He labels McLaughlin a “wolf” who manipulates scripture to sway believers, despite allegedly rejecting the Bible entirely. Howerton’s message is clear—Christians must show compassion to doubters but be “forceful” with those spreading doubt.
However, McLaughlin has never said he hates Christianity. Instead, he has openly affirmed his admiration for Jesus’ teachings, even calling himself a “Christian” in a certain sense. He distances himself from the label only because of its modern associations with harmful ideologies and unverifiable claims. McLaughlin’s critiques focus on the politicization of faith, not a rejection of Jesus himself.
Misrepresentation and Political Power
Howerton’s attack stems from a short video in which McLaughlin reflects on Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. Reading from Luke 4, McLaughlin highlights how Satan offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world—a temptation Jesus rejects. McLaughlin interprets this as a warning against pursuing political power, contrasting Jesus’ humility with modern evangelical efforts to dominate government.
Howerton disagrees, insisting Jesus simply refused a gift from Satan, not political power in principle. For Howerton, political power is acceptable—even holy—if it’s used to establish Jesus’ lordship. He frames this as a righteous mission: “All the nations belong to us,” he proclaims.
Masculine Dominion and Nationalism
Howerton supports his vision of Christian dominance through institutions: family, church, and state. He emphasizes male authority in all three spheres. According to Howerton, Adam’s failure to lead justifies male headship today. This includes men ruling households, leading churches, and shaping government.
Critics argue this reinforces a patriarchal, authoritarian theology where power is sacralized. They note that Howerton praises Doug Wilson, a controversial figure who openly calls for the government to impose Christian morality. Howerton echoes Wilson’s worldview: “The question is not whether morality will be imposed, but whose.”
Howerton’s Defense of Political Alliances
To justify evangelical support for political figures like Donald Trump, Howerton introduces three types of leaders: Josiah (godly), Jezebel (evil), and Jehu (flawed but useful). He says Christians should back Jehu-style leaders—like Trump—if they advance Christian causes. Abortion bans, anti-LGBTQ+ policies, and Christian education are prioritized, even if the leader is personally immoral.
This raises concerns about hypocrisy. How can evangelicals preach righteousness while excusing a convicted sexual predator? Howerton sidesteps this by claiming secular leaders “worship the government” in place of God.
Critics Say It’s All Projection
McLaughlin never calls for worshiping government or candidates. He argues Christians shouldn’t mirror the devil’s tactics to claim power. Still, Howerton accuses him of making politics a religion.
Ironically, critics say it’s Howerton and his allies who do exactly that. From revival rallies funded by the government to calls for Christian rule over every sphere, critics argue white evangelicals are transforming theology into a political machine. Even worship becomes campaign fodder.
By portraying Jesus as a king demanding political conquest through male-led structures, Howerton overlooks Jesus’ concern for the poor, oppressed, and imprisoned. His vision of Christianity, detractors say, replaces good news with a gospel of dominance.
Source:
Josh Howerton redefines following Jesus as becoming empire
Photo by KirstenMarie on Unsplash
About Post Author
