An upcoming Promise Keepers event is featuring right-wing political provocateur Charlie Kirk and celebrity TV host Phil McGraw, prompting concerns among some pastors and Christian leaders.
Billed as a return to arena rallies for the venerable men’s ministry, Promise Keepers’ (PK) two-day event called “Daring Faith” will take place Aug. 9 and 10, at the Mabee Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The event seeks to challenge attendees to be true followers of Christ through insightful truths and unforgettable stories, according to its website.
Organizers plan for at least ten thousand men to attend and hear speakers including McGraw, Kirk, charismatic Bible teacher John Bevere, author and pastor Samuel Rodriguez, Turning Point USA contributor John Amanchukwu, and Brooklyn pastor A.R. Bernard.
Ken Harrison, chairman of the board of PK, told The Roys Report (TRR) that, “Promise Keepers isn’t taking any political stances, but we’re not shying away from controversial people either.”
However, Caleb Campbell, pastor of Desert Springs Bible Church in Phoenix, Arizona, is concerned about Kirk’s influence after observing the political activist speak in area churches. “Platforming him gives the impression of endorsement,” said Campbell.
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“(Kirk) engages in a partisanship that winks at or blatantly endorses one candidate,” said Campbell. “When you do that, you become a tool of one party and an enemy of the other. As a pastor, I’ve seen that alienate much of the mission field in one’s community.”
Similarly, Matthew Boedy, professor of rhetoric at the University of North Georgia, told TRR that he is “concerned” PK would invite Kirk. “He and his organization spread a dangerous brand of manhood that Kirk links to his continuing talk of civil war,” said Boedy.
One of the slated speakers, Bernard, famously resigned from former president Donald Trump’s faith leaders council on principle. Harrison says that diversity of views is intentional.
“There’s a guy that’s very pro-Trump in Charlie Kirk and a guy that’s very not pro-Trump in A.R. Bernard,” said Harrison. “Theologically, they would be very similar, but politically they certainly wouldn’t agree on a lot of things—and we’re not going to make sure everyone agrees.”
TRR reached out to Bernard for comment but did not hear back.
Last year, Harrison and Nashville pastor Steve Berger, long associated with Turning Point USA, generated headlines over a controversy related to a PK social post about Pride Month.
Now the PK leader is hoping Kirk’s influence and a celebrity like McGraw can draw men in.
“We need to have some speakers who are going to be able to speak to young men where they’re at,” said Harrison. ”Charlie speaks to the people of his generation in a way that I can’t.”
He also referenced the new president of PK, Shane Winnings, a 33-year-old itinerant preacher and social influencer. “In the 90s, the average age at PK events was 38 years old,” said Harrison. “Look at our audience now and the people haven’t changed, they just got older.”
Campbell stated that such reasoning seems like seeking attendance regardless of the message.
“That’s Machiavelli, not the Messiah,” he said. “Will they platform anyone with malformed character, as long as they get people to show up? The ends do not justify the means according to the teachings of Jesus.”
Kirk goes to church
Kirk has been a conservative commentator and popular speaker through his political advocacy group, Turning Point USA, founded in 2012.
Five years ago, Kirk began to bring that advocacy into a church context, initially through the Falkirk Center for Faith and Liberty. The name “Falkirk” was meant in part as a portmanteau of the center’s co-founders, former Liberty University president Jerry Falwell, Jr., and Kirk.
In the wake of Falwell’s sex scandal and exit from Liberty University, Kirk left the partnership. The center, which remains controversial with some Liberty alumni, was renamed the Standing for Freedom Center. That same day, Kirk announced Turning Point Faith, aimed at preaching conservative politics in Christian megachurches.
Along with larger bi-annual events in various cities, TPUSA co-hosts “Faith Night in America” once a month at Dream City Church in Phoenix, where Kirk has presented conservative politics as a church-growth strategy.
“The pastors that I know that have taken the boldest stands over the last two years have actually seen their attendance grow,” said Kirk at an event last year. “They need bigger buildings. Their tithes and offerings have increased.”
Campbell has often attended those events to observe and understand the phenomenon of what he terms “American Christian nationalism.” He readily defines the ideology: “It’s a blatant form of syncretism,” he said. “It combines aspects of Protestant Christianity with American civil religion and a theological distortion of how Christians should treat power.”
Boedy, who is writing a book on Christian nationalism that is set to release next year, noted that Kirk is “praised by pastors who promote him” but said Kirk mocks his critics and isn’t truthful.
“His radio show—especially the evening segments, with his friends—not only spread lies and mislead voters,” said Boedy. “They are brash, arrogant, and show little fruit of the spirit.”
In a social post, Christian businessman Ed Draves objected to how PK has seemed to endorse former President Trump.
“The politician that many of your speakers back just referred to immigrants as ‘animals’ rather than humans,” said Draves in a post on X. “That’s where Shane Winnings led PK. Can PK call itself Christian after this debacle? How can PK be brought back to Christ?”
And Napp Nazworth, executive director of American Values Coalition, told TRR he is “dumbfounded” by the number of Christian leaders “willing to work and associate with Charlie Kirk.”
The former journalist explains: “Kirk promotes Great Replacement Theory, a white supremacist ideology, on his podcast. Either these leaders are unaware of Kirk’s extreme views, they don’t care about his extreme views, or, most concerning of all, they support his extreme views.”
In other recent controversies, Kirk partnered with a company headed by a registered sex offender for a TPUSA Pastors Summit. He also welcomed disgraced pastor Mark Driscoll on his national radio show. And, Kirk disparaged Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the landmark Civil Rights Act enacted following King’s death.
Harrison said the PK board is aware of Kirk’s controversial nature but affirmed their decision to invite him.
“I don’t agree with Charlie on everything politically, but I think he is a godly man who has a great wisdom to say to people his age,” said Harrison. “If it makes some people offended that he takes strong political stances, so be it.”
‘Dr. Phil’ and the power of celebrity
Promise Keepers’ Tulsa event gives top billing to TV host “Dr. Phil” McGraw, who has developed a large following for his folksy advice delivered on his daytime TV program.
His self-titled show ended its 21-season run on CBS last May. However, “Dr. Phil” is slated to relaunch on April 2, on a new network. Recently, in granting interviews for his new book, We’ve Got Issues, McGraw has spoken explicitly of his Christian faith.
In an interview on TBN, McGraw shared how, during his teen years, his father’s hard drinking created issues for his family. The adolescent McGraw came to faith in God during this period.
“I didn’t do it just because that’s what you do at that age,” said McGraw. “I had to really think this through. I spent a lot of time with the minister and youth pastor.”
But McGraw has also had his shares of controversies. In 2012, he invited two psychics on his TV program to give a reading. Some Christian followers cried foul.
In 2008, when the family of Britney Spears allegedly asked McGraw to visit her in a private capacity, McGraw brought a TV crew to the hospital. Controversy erupted and the segment never aired.
During the aftermath of that incident, it was revealed that McGraw allowed his psychology license in the State of Texas to expire as of 2006 and does not have a current license. The California Board of Psychology stated that McGraw does not need a license because he is “doing more entertainment than psychology.”
Harrison shrugs off criticism of McGraw. “Lots of people have made lots of mistakes, including me, over the years,” he said. “Christ looks at us and says, who are you today and where do you stand? Having read Phil’s new book, I think he’s reengaged with his faith.”
Campbell noted that Promise Keepers, founded by Coach Bill McCartney, has a history of platforming Christian athletes and other celebrities who are actively living out their faith.
But the pastor, who founded nonprofit group Disarming Leviathan two years ago to address the influence of culture seeping into the church, questions mixing celebrity and the Gospel.
“Sure, celebrities can be a draw,” he said. “But what happens when that celebrity that we’ve platformed and called people to follow lives in ways that contradict the teachings of Jesus?”
This story was updated to add comments from Napp Nazworth.
Freelance journalist Josh Shepherd writes on faith, culture, and public policy for several media outlets. He and his family live in the Washington, D.C. area.
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35 Responses
Thank The Lord for Charles Kirk. He, like all of us, may not be perfect but he is courageous, talented and out on the front line. I am disappointed in this TRR article.
How disappointing! Promise Keepers has really changed – this isn’t about promoting the gospel, but about promoting politics.
Dr. Phil is questionable, only because he seems to be more about self-help than Jesus-help. However, at times he’s said a few things that indicate he is a believer. I’d be interested in hearing more of history.
BUT. Charlie Kirk promotes white supremacist ideologies, often positioning them as conservative ideologies. When this is downplayed with mere “he’s not perfect, but…” responses, PLEASE stop asking why Black people overwhelmingly stay away from the GOP.
If you’d bluntly disparage and kick the Charlie Kirks out, you’d be surprised at the number of Black voters who’d change their tune. Many are quite conservative (especially Boomers), but can’t stomach voting for a party that is ok with the Charlie Kirks.
You say Charlie is “courageous”? The REAL courageous conservatives would stand up to his white replacement theories and other nonsense.
Wow that’s not the promise keepers I went to in the past. It sounds like a political rally. Very sad very embarrassing
Nor is it the PK that I volunteered at in the past. Emphasis then was on salvation, worship, racial harmony, father/son reconciliation, and obedience.
We are called to be the keeper of earth. Politics IS part of our job. In fact, we are derelicting our duty if we skip it over and hand it to the devil.
Um no. What did Christ say about His Kingdom being not of this world? What did Peter say about Christians’ attitude in his 1st Epistle Chapter 2?
I’m thinking about not following this website any more because its so critical and opinionated and negative.
Looking at Christianity’s dirty laundry isn’t pleasant, but until the darkness is exposed to the light, it will just fester and end up befouling the whole faith. I commend Julie for staying on task with her calling, despite the naysayers.
Lorainne, is this article critical or just honest? Opinionated or expressing an opinion you are not used to, or perhaps find difficult to hear?
American Christians are in a dangerous place because politics has been strongly mixed with faith. Jesus said nothing about Caesar nor did he preach against the rulers of his day. No fiery messages about Romans replacing Israelites. No sermons about overthrowing the Roman government. He said to pay taxes to Caesar as required, that was it. Christian can and should vote our conscience in elections, but we must not equate a political point of view with being Christian. It compromises the message of salvation and new life for all.
Furthermore, we can change all the laws we like, appoint all the “conservative judges” we like and put certain political leaders into power but all this changes NOTHING in society because not a single human heart is changed by these things. Remember what the Bible teaches- law doesn’t change a person’s heart, only the Spirit.
The problem isn’t Julie Roys website. The problem is Christians who look to worldly solutions (politics) to change spiritual problems (hearts far from God). Which I think is what this article is trying to say- men like Charlie Kirk are focused on the wrong goal and that won’t lead to changed human hearts.
As you point out, Jesus did not go up against the pagan ruler Caesar, but did directly confront those who claimed to speak for God (Pharisees, Sadducees) yet were hypocritical.
While Jesus did call political leader Herod Antipas “that fox,” Herod tried to use his part-Jewish ancestry to legitimate his being appointed tetrarch over Galilee, all the while being cozy with Caligula. He curried favor with the Jews to keep them happy enough to have him in office (as opposed to a full Roman governor like Pilate in Judea), while still living a lifestyle that went against Jewish morality.
Very well said! This profound teaching should be ringing from every Christian pulpit in the land. But I know a lot of itching ears wouldn’t want to hear it…
The Roys Report is only reporting on what happening. Promise Keepers are the ones who have chosen to platform political people and a self help dude.
PK, down the tubes. I’m passing the word to all. STAY AWAY.
Looks like PK has gone MAGA.
PK is one more “evangelical” ministry on a very long list to avoid.
All through this article, I am thinking Dietrich Bonhoeffer. He was considered dangerous by the ruling party. What we have now is as anti God as you can get. Our fathers and men need hope and courage, isn’t this what Promise Keepers is about? This white supremacy narrative is a lie, saying it is promoted by Trump and his followers. The mainstream media lie and twist every word. Those who promote it have fueled the great divide. Our men need a few Patrick Henry’s to face another day. Get a grip folks!
are you comparing Charlie Kirk to Dietrich Bonhoeffer?
No. Question: Where are the Dietrich Bonhoeffers and the Patrick Henrys to warn the church and inspire our men?
Dr. Phil is making the rounds at the Dallas Ft. Worth mega churches. I am guessing it is to help promote the new network and massive studio.
Or to promote a new book?
What was PK thinking when they invited Charlie Kirk? It looks like their leadership might be trying to smuggle far right wing politics into their meetings.
Charlie Kirk is right that many churches who have wholeheartedly embraced the heresy that the kingdom of God has anything to do with politically taking over countries “have actually seen their attendance grow,” and “need bigger buildings. Their tithes and offerings have increased.”
Christians on all sides of the political spectrum should read Tim Alberta’s ‘The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory.’ One of the most heartbreaking themes is Alberta’s interviews with pastors who–having taken this road and realized its stark opposition to the gospel of Jesus Christ–admit they can’t turn back because they won’t be able to pay for those new buildings.
I am not despising these brothers and sisters; many of them are my close friends. I am pleading in the name of our fellowship in Christ that we test the spirits in this hour.
Storm,
Like the 1st Century AD Jews, they chose Barabbas. And we all know what happened to them in 70 AD.
Maybe it will take the wholesale destruction of American Evangelical Christianity by Godless forces for them to realize that (since God uses Godless forces and entities to do so – think OT Israel). Consider me a Roman Soldier and pass the popcorn. But of course the Charlie Kirks and “Christian” nationalists will play the persecution card and most will fall for it.
John Bevere is also alarming when considering the man is aligns himself with the collection NAR heretics and hirelings.
Promise Keepers is finally saying the quiet part out – privileged dominant white male organization platforms the MAGA worldview freely and fully. How is that not spot on? Charlie Kirk and Dr. Phil are simply the two of the thought leader faces of today’s Christian Nationalist Evangelicals and their sycophants–people who will now say exactly what the movement wants to hear.
Keep moving farther and farther to the right, fulfilling what tentatively began decades ago with the resurgance of the KKK in the 1920’s, the America First movement in the 1930’s, the John Birch Society (which, my father, a pastor quietly attended in 1960), the Moral Majority (etc, etc) and eventually landing in today’s alarming iteration of full-on Trump-ism.
There is no better way to demonstrate on a grand stage what those of us who have fully left our indoctrination discovered in 2016.
Our children have left it all as well.
In fact, they led the way out.
Decency and serenity are highly under-rated.
Congratulations Lee, and thank you. And, for those reading here, this is where I’d like to recommend a book by Kristin Kobes Du Mez’s titled “Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation”. In the book, there’s a specific chapter highlighting the influence of Promise Keepers.
The church/church organizations today have been significantly damaged by two things (1) marriage to politics (you can see how offended several people in comments are when their favorite political figures are criticized—an idolatrous love for politics/greater alignment with politics than the gospel) (2) a celebrity culture. Phil McGraw? He chose entertainment TV over helping people get whole. PK looks like it has bought into both trends, desiring a large draw and $$$ over forming men into true disciples. It seems like many churches/church orgs may be violating the Johnson Amendment by platforming political tours -the Courage Tour etc., TurningPoint USA, etc.
The bottom line with these two men is have they received the forgiveness of sins through Faith in the Work of Christ on the Cross. If they have then they are brothers in the Lord. If they haven’t then they should not be involved with a Christian organization and influencing others in the name of PK. It is time for the Church to boldly proclaim the Gospel because only the Gospel believed upon can help society because society is lost in their sin and delusion.
Partly true… maybe, but the Real bottom line… their fruit. I don’t know as much about Dr Phil, but I’ve seen and heard enough of Charlie Kirk’s ‘fruit’ to know I don’t want any of it and will avoid him like a plague, because his teaching – is a plague upon the Church. Someday Charlie will have to give up his idols; I hope he does so without too much hemming and hawing…
I was quoted in the article and I want to be very clear that I take issue with anyone using the church to put a politician above Christ. Had Winnings created a “woke speaker” list in support of the other candidate, my quote would not be materially changed. Enough dirty politics – “love God and Love your neighbor”
In my opinion, we should never focus our attention on men. It’s a set up for failure and creates false idols. We are to live quite and peaceful lives, living Christ out in our own communities. Don’t follow these groups, organizations and the like. Focus on Jesus Christ and trust that he will sanctify our lives to be a “local testimony” that glorifies Christ by His redemptive work. Thank you, Jesus for your transforming power that saves, sanctifies and redeems! I am so grateful!
What is interesting is that Kirk was close with Jerry Falwell, Jr. (his center was a joint venture with Liberty University). What is interesting is that Junior was not really much of a MAGA-Trump fan initially. But then he did a 180 and went all in for Trump. This was right about the time Trump’s fixer informed Junior of he and his wife’s recreation with the pool boy. Makes me wonder if Trump has something on anti-LGBT Charlie Kirk (projecting there Charlie?)…
I wonder if Promise Keepers brought in David French, Kyle Howard, Phil Vischer or Zach Lambert? How many might show up? What would the message be??
Caleb Campbell promotes engaging in government and politics- but remain untethered to any political party.. Is he ignorant of how government or politics work? Positions are debated and enacted (or not). Our tax dollars are spent (or not?). Laws are enforced (or not). What is Campbell’s movement called?
The voter examines which position benefits them and their family and votes. Today there is a clear distinction between parties- unlike anytime in history. It only takes a few minutes to see the differences in party positions.
As usual, this is a continuation of theme that Christian Nationalism is the threat.
Don’t pay attention to the changes occurring at the Presbyterian(USA)- forcing LGBTQ affirmation.
The problem is that one has a better chance of playing ice hockey in Hades before PK and the Christian Nationalists invite David French (or the others for that matter). They completely dismiss David French’s bona fides as a Christian, a conservative, and one who actually defended Christians in court against secular institutions because he dared to criticize their true lord and savior Cheeto Jesus Trump.
I know next to nothing about any of the famous characters mentioned. It’s troubling to platform speakers who don’t primarily share the gospel. There’s Muslims and Hindus who share many of our moral laws. We don’t want to equate morals with faith in Jesus. Great morals can’t save a single soul. It’s preferable to platform a country preacher with a passion for Jesus, rather than nonbelievers who share our politics.
I thought Dr Phil is virulently pro-choice?