PODCAST:Today, Explained
TITLE:The Joshua Generation grows up
DATE:2023-12-27 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
In this episode of "Today Explained," titled "The Joshua Generation Grows Up," the focus is on the evangelical Christian family, the Duggars, who were the stars of TLC's "19 Kids and Counting." The episode delves into the concept of the "Joshua Generation," a movement within evangelical Christianity aiming to raise children to become influential in society, particularly in roles like U.S. senators, presidents, and Supreme Court justices.
The episode features Kristen Kobes Du Mez, a historian and author of "Jesus and John Wayne," who explains the origins and ideologies behind the Joshua Generation. This movement, rooted in the teachings of figures like R.J. Rushdoony and Bill Gothard, emphasized strict adherence to a conservative interpretation of the Bible, patriarchal authority, and the homeschooling of children to shield them from secular influences.
Du Mez discusses the impact of these teachings on children, particularly focusing on gender roles, discipline, and the rejection of mainstream education and science. The movement aimed to strategically place its graduates in powerful positions to influence American society and law.
The episode also includes an interview with Christina and Aaron Biel, former members of the Joshua Generation. They share their personal experiences growing up in this movement, the emphasis on homeschooling, and the teachings they received. The Biels discuss their eventual departure from the movement, prompted by their experiences as parents and their exposure to different perspectives. Christina no longer identifies as an evangelical Christian, while Aaron still maintains his faith but questions the evangelical label.
The episode highlights the complexities and challenges faced by individuals raised within the Joshua Generation, and their journey towards reevaluating their beliefs and the teachings they received in their upbringing.
