Between Two Gileads with Rev. Dr. Henry Walter Spauling III

What happens when the Bible is used to justify power, certainty, and exclusion? And what might it look like to read scripture in a way that draws us toward grace, humility, and a deeper love of our neighbours?

In this episode of Rector’s Cupboard, we’re joined by the Reverend Dr. Henry Walter Spaulding III—who kindly gives us permission to call him Hank—to discuss his book Between Two Gileads: Christian Nationalism, Fundamentalism, Romans 13:1–7, and the Future of Political Theology.

Drawing on the contrasting visions of Gilead imagined by Margaret Atwood and Marilynne Robinson, Hank explores how Christian faith can be used to justify authoritarianism and exclusion, or open us to the grace and humanity of others. He invites us to read difficult biblical texts with care, resisting the temptation to assume that any single interpretation has the final word on what God is saying. What happens when we approach scripture with humility rather than certainty, especially when faith and political power intersect?

The conversation also offers a hopeful alternative. Drawing on Robinson, Jacques Ellul, and other thinkers, Hank describes the paradox of non-power: choosing not to dominate, even when we can. What if faithfulness has less to do with winning or gaining influence, and more to do with trusting God’s work and practising the slow, relational work of presence, humility, and love?

We hope you enjoy the conversation.