First Things Article Questions "The Church of Empathy" for Politicized Christian Ethics

Darrell B. Harrison, a prominent pastor and biblical commentator, recently drew attention to an article in First Things magazine titled "The Church of Empathy." Shared via his X account on August 16, 2025, Harrison's tweet highlighted the piece by R.R. Reno, which critically examines the evolving role of "empathy" as a guiding principle within contemporary Christian thought. The article suggests that while empathy is a Christian virtue, its modern interpretation, particularly when influenced by progressive politics, may lead to deviations from traditional biblical teachings.

The First Things article, published on January 24, 2025, delves into how "empathy" has become a central ethical guide, especially within segments of the church influenced by what it terms "the New Left." This perspective, according to the piece, prioritizes the marginalized and shapes ethical decisions based on popular understandings of empathy. However, the article raises concerns that such an approach risks politicizing fundamental Christian ethics. R.R. Reno states, > "Once everything is politicized, however, empathy too must take on a political character."

Reno's critique posits that this politicized empathy, when filtered through contemporary progressive values, can reflect weaknesses within this "ethical project." The article uses the example of a pastor, Jonny Rashid, whose personal struggles are presented as reflecting these broader issues. This suggests a potential disconnect between the theoretical application of empathy and its practical, real-world outcomes when detached from traditional theological grounding.

Darrell B. Harrison, known for his theological stance emphasizing biblical sufficiency and often critiquing social justice and progressive ideologies within evangelicalism, aligns with the article's cautionary tone. His podcast, "Just Thinking," frequently addresses how worldly philosophies can compromise the gospel. Harrison has previously asserted that "social justice is sinful by definition because it favors the poor," indicating a consistent skepticism towards movements that blend secular political agendas with Christian doctrine.

The discussion surrounding "The Church of Empathy" underscores a broader debate within Christianity regarding the integration of contemporary social and political frameworks with core theological principles. Critics argue that prioritizing a politically-inflected empathy risks diluting the gospel's transformative power, shifting focus from spiritual redemption to socio-political outcomes that may not align with biblical truth.