Why is there so much poverty in America?
With Matthew Desmond
How are Christians supposed to think, feel, and act as they walk by a homeless person? As they drive through an impoverished neighborhood and pass by its residents? Our reactions will be strongly influenced by how we answer the question, “Why? Why are these people poor?” To wrestle with this question, Curtis is joined by the leading scholar on American poverty today, Matthew Desmond, author of Poverty, by America. Together, they explore why most Americans are missing the full answer – and the special responsibility of Christians to live out the Biblical answer.
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Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond
Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City by Matthew Desmond
What does the Bible say about poverty? (from World Vision)
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This was amazing that you had Matthew Desmond on your podcast!! When I read his latest, I said. “he is preaching the gospel (without actually quoting the gospel).” Love and so convicted by his work. Having him on this podcast was amazing for another reason–it provided an opportunity to share the podcast with those who are fans of his, but not necessarily fans of Christian podcasts. Thank you for this!
I love this podcast and strongly believe Christians are obligated to love, support and care for the poor. But Mr Desmond’s book is so flawed I don’t think he makes the case for the progressive policies he advocates. With David French absent, I would point to some of the critiques in this review: https://www.cato.org/regulation/winter-2023-2024/book-review-poverty-america
Still a good topic for further podcasts.
Paul,
Thanks for your comment. We really appreciate your engagement. These are complicated economic issues about which not all Good Faith listeners will see eye-to-eye. Thanks for passing along this link with another perspective.
Best,
Josiah from the Redeeming Babel Team