Martyrdom Porn and the Evangelical Persecution Complex Part 1
What do Nine Inch Nails, Communism, blood being poured into a chalice, and kids playing Ring Around the Rosie have in common? If you guessed they\u2019re all connected to the music video for one of the most popular Christian alternative songs of the 90s, you\u2019d be correct! Today we are starting a two-part arc on martyrdom porn and the myth of Christian persecution in the United States. In Part 1, we will explore this phenomenon specifically through the lens of DC Talk\u2019s Jesus Freak. The concept of the Jesus Freak is something that all Evangelicals are familiar with, especially if you lived through the 90s. It's nothing new, though\u2014the idea of Christians suffering for Christ has its basis in the Bible, but the way this idea has been morphed to mythological heights is truly fascinating. Jesus Freak didn't plant the seed but it definitely threw fuel on the fire, a fire that transcended religion and took over popular culture and politics and only continues to grow. It is truly amazing how a religious group, so enmeshed in politics in this country that they have become synonymous with one of our two political parties, believes they are the victim. Is this divinely inspired suffering, or simply a self-fulfilling prophecy?
\nIn order that they are referenced:
\n- \n
- Why I ditched the Evangelical persecution complex, by Kevin Singer \n
- The Evangelical persecution complex, by Alan Noble \n
- Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), by Catherine A. Paul \n
And of course, the Jesus Freak music video!
\nJoin the Runaway Eve community and share your own stories on Instagram at @runaway_eve! If you like what you hear, tell your friends.