October 3Wisdom Conversations

“For our citizenship is in heaven.” — Paul of Tarsus

Dual citizenship. Christians are dual citizens responsible to God and responsible to their government. But just how should Christians understand and live out this dual citizenship? In our era of American democracy characterized by the demands for authenticity, tolerance, embrace of difference, polarization, and conformity, it has become increasingly difficult to discern how to live simultaneously as both an authentic heavenly citizen and an authentic democratic citizen. This difficulty is even more pronounced and perhaps even paralyzing amidst our national presidential elections. We may wonder whether it is at all possible for Christians to be faithful to the duties that both God and democracy place on them. Perhaps Christians are slated to live in a constant and burdensome tension between the pole of heaven and the pole of democracy. Maybe there is a different path or a better way. Regardless, the question that Francis Shaeffer asked over five decades ago is as relevant now as it was then, “How should we then live?”

Our distinguished national panel is uniquely qualified to explore how Christians could live out a faithful, authentic Christianity within an American democracy whose demands can periodically be at odds with the Christian faith. And vice versa, our distinguished panelists will help us consider a possible model for political engagement that is faithful to an authentic Christianity and advances an American democracy that is focused on the flourishing of all of its members. Other key questions that will be considered are:

• Can Christianity’s vital influence on American democracy gain relevance among citizens?
• How can Christians be faithful to God in a rapidly secularizing America?
• What can Christians do to be good citizens who boldly live, think and lead lives of influence for Christ?

Dr. Gerson Moreno-Riaño, president of Cornerstone University, will moderate this dynamic Christian thought leadership series where challenging issues are openly discussed; ideas are respectfully exchanged; and potential solutions are Biblical, practical, and Christ-centered.

Register for free now and join the conversation that has attended by over 3,000 in West Michigan since 2022! For more information and event recaps, explore previous Wisdom Conversations.

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Distinguished Guest Bios

Dr. Kristin Collier has worked as a practicing physician for over 20 years. She serves as a clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan Medical School and director of Michigan Medicine’s program on Health, Spirituality & Religion. Collier, a pro-life advocate who converted from atheism to Christianity, has continued to faithfully live out her convictions despite criticism and student protests as she trains tomorrow’s health care leaders.

Michael Wear is CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life and a senior fellow with the Trinity Forum. As an advisor to civic leaders and presidential campaign staffer, he became one of the youngest White House staffers, leading evangelical outreach and engagement on matters of faith and public life for the Obama administration. Wear’s latest book, “The Spirit of Our Politics,” argues that the kind of people we are has much to do with the kind of politics and public life we will have.

Marvin Olasky, edited World magazine for 29 years and developed the concept that became known as “compassionate conservatism.” After embracing and then rejecting communism, he became a Christian 48 years ago and has written 26 books including “The Tragedy of American Compassion,” “Reforming Journalism,” “Moral Vision,” and “Pivot Points: Adventures on the Road to Christian Contentment.” He has co-authored eight more, including “The Story of Abortion in America.”

Gabe Lyons, best-selling author and influential podcaster, is the founder of THINQ Media, an organization equipping thought leaders for impactful conversations that lead to wisdom. His work, including global events such as Q Commons, reaches over 10 million people, promoting the positive role of Christian faith in society. Lyons, who was mentored by Chuck Colson, co-authored “Good Faith: Being a Christian When Society Thinks You’re Irrelevant and Extreme” and “unChristian.”

Who Should Attend?

Everyone! Over 1,000 regional community guests attended in 2023. Events are free and open to all, including high school and college students and educators, churches, businesses, nonprofit organizations, community leaders, friends, and neighbors. High school and college students are especially encouraged to attend as future bold influencers for Jesus Christ.

About Wisdom Conversations

Hosted and moderated by Cornerstone University, Wisdom Conversations is West Michigan’s premier event for Christian thought leadership about urgent issues facing communities, the nation and the world. National guests are leaders, public intellectuals and experts. These distinguished men and women engage over today’s most challenging social, political, economic, cultural and moral conflicts. The exchange of various viewpoints and positive potential solutions for the greater good is vigorous and thought-provoking.

The Bible is the ultimate source of truth and knowledge, and its wisdom when applied leads the world to the good, the true and the beautiful through Jesus Christ. Together, we can create a beautiful community that honors God and influences the world for His purposes.

Register Today

The next Wisdom Conversations, Christianity and American Democracy: Living as a Faithful Christian and a Good Citizen, will take place on October 3 at 7 p.m. Advance registration is now open for the free event. Sign up today!