Against Christian Civilization by Paul Kingsnorth

In worldly terms, though, the devil’s argument is quite rational. Why not use your power for good? he seems to be asking. Why not govern these kingdoms as an earthly ruler, wisely and justly, instead of wandering around in the sticks preaching to exiles and nobodies? Wouldn’t you be better off engaging in politics for the greater good? You could build a Christian civilization. (View Highlight)

Civilizational Christianity puts civilization first and Christianity second. Its proponents are less interested in whether the faith is actually true or transformative than in what use it can be to them in their ongoing culture war. (View Highlight)

We are, I am sure now, living through the end of something. We are in what the Sufi philosopher René Guénon called “the darkness between worlds.” We should accept it; even, if we have the strength, embrace it. We should use it as an opportunity to sharpen the blade of our souls on the stone of the world. Christians, of all people, should know the drill by now. (View Highlight)