Independent SCITTS are ones we consider not clearly affiliated with any other particular institution (such as a Christian school or law society), but they seem to “stand-alone” in their own right. We have collated this Set into 3 main Subsets:
Subset (1) is for SCITTS contributing mostly to a General (Foundational) Christian Worldview on issues of Law, Justice and Government (as we view these latter items as General and Foundational in themselves);
Subset (2) is for SCITTS covering more Single, or Specific Issues, i.e., specifically aligning with any of Isaiah Justice Institute’s 10 Advocacy-Justice Service Areas (aka our 10 Interest Areas, or simply our 10 Specific Issues), and this is typically seen most clearly in a SCITT’s own name (e.g., “Focus on the Family” clearly deals with Marriage & Family issues); and
Subset (3) is reserved for Secondary Sources among Independent SCITTS (additional, archived ones), whose informational resources may be valuable in their own right, but which we have chosen to place in this last Subset for a variety of reasons (see Subset (3) to know more).
In some cases, SCITTS seem to fit appropriately in more than one Subset. In those situations, we may short-cite the SCITT in one Subset, giving it a cross-reference there to another Subset where it most appropriately fits, and there it is then given a fuller description.
Some important information and reminders to help you navigate SCITTS in this Subset: SCITTS listed here of course lay a more General Foundation in biblical Christian worldview In our interest areas. This means they tend to address bigger questions like: “What’s the purpose of law and of government?”; “How should we define justice?”; “How does God work with human agents in these areas?”; and so on. However this General emphasis does not mean these SCITTS don’t also get into worldview in some of our 10 Specific Interest areas. Many do, and when that happens we try to show their influence through use of our 10 specific subject icons (see Explanation above). And recall again, a few of these SCITTS may also get into various kinds of advocacy. In all instances where we see this, we seek to note that as well (that holds true for SCITTS in the next Subset (2), also). Similarly, some SCITTS in the next Subset (2), for Specific and Single Issues, may cross-over into some General worldview themes. If so, we cross-reference them in short form, in this Subset (1) as well.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Economics, Government
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“The Acton Institute is a think tank whose mission is to promote a free and virtuous society characterized by individual liberty and sustained by religious principles.” “Acton is an ecumenical research organization connecting religious thought to the moral foundations of free market economics.” (quotes from its website). Acton also covers various social, political and cultural issues, in the US and internationally.
This is a strong think tank, with resources in almost every kind of publishing media. It focuses a lot on economic, cultural, social and political issues. We recommend this group for its solid scholarship, sound theological foundations, and its several news services/podcasts on contemporary social issues.
News Journal Articles / Blogs (2):
i) Religion & Liberty Online (Connecting Good Intentions With Sound Economics) (formerly, it seems, the old Acton PowerBlog (renamed); it’s still the starting point to get to know them, and covers lots of key topics, including, it seems, some international issues)
ii) Religion & Liberty Transatlantic (News and Analysis from the US, Canada, and the EU) (this used to be the international counterpunch to i) above, but it regrettably seems out of print (last issue in Oct. 2021; it covered key subjects like religious liberty, rising secularism, and having healthy civil societies among these nations; older issues are still accessible in this archive, and are worth seeing)
Scholarly Journals (2):
i) Journal of Markets and Morality (peer reviewed, and “promoting its distinct vision of the free and virtuous society, and the benefits of individual liberty guided by religious principles;” subscription is required)
ii) Religion & Liberty (A Quarterly Journal Of Religion, Economics & Culture): “A quarterly journal of religion, economics & culture,” that contains “essays, book reviews, and interviews with those working for a free and virtuous society.” (quotes from its website). This journal is similar to a scholarly periodical in its style. Available by subscription, but recent issues are available for free, online.
Newsletter: Acton Notes: “This bi-monthly bulletin keeps you up to date on Acton’s accomplishments, activities, publications, upcoming events, and more.” (from its website); past issues are available in pdf, recent ones require a free subscription
Podcasts (3):
i) Acton Line (the Official Podcast of the Acton Institute) (“dedicated to the promotion of a free and virtuous society”)
ii) Acton Unwind (“a weekly roundtable discussion . . . connecting good intentions with sound economics”)
iii) Acton Vault (from Acton Institute’s Archives, covering over 30 years of topics, including many lectures)
Books: See “Acton Books” (several available, including monographs)
Seminars & Conferences: (several available (e.g., 19 in 2021); you can also arrange with them)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Economics, Education, Government, Justice
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“CPJ is a nonpartisan Christian organization engaged in public policy development and civic education. Our mission is to serve God, advance justice, and transform public life.” Its aim is: “Serving God by equipping citizens, developing leaders and shaping policy, advancing justice for the transformation of public life.” (from its website). CPJ has a specific Institute focusing on educational policies, and an International Religious Freedom Association (IRFA), catering to and engaging in some soft advocacy for religious and similar liberties (featuring articles and actions).
CPJ is also known for “Shared Justice,” a “program for Christian college students and young adults, [which] inspires and equips the next generation of leaders with the framework and tools needed for a sustained commitment to civic engagement and advocacy in their communities.” This program provides resources and tools (see these below); it serves scholars and academics, and offers internships.
CPJ has also established a set of “Guidelines and Principles: Guidelines for Government & Citizenship,” showing its stances on issues (it’s worth seeing).
This is a key organization on Christian thinking on public policy. Lots of topics are covered not only on key US legislation, impacting society and the Church, but the global impact of that as well. Shared Justice, while vibrant, tends to cater to the political and theological leanings of a younger generation, one that is not always Scripturally informed. Editor’s Caveat: It seems as of Nov. 30, 2022, CPJ is supporting the vile and deceptively-named “Respect for Marriage Act,” in the U.S., which many Christian scholars claim will open lawsuits against Bible-believing Christians who correctly express disagreement with so-called “same-sex marriage.” CPJ claims the legislation contains sufficient liberty protections for Christians; others strongly disagree.
Scholarly, News Articles (Blogs): See in “Articles.” This is somewhat a cross and mix between some shorter Scholarly Articles (researched, well-informed pieces, yet without separate citations to authorities (internal references only)), and regular News Articles, cast in an informational Blog style. CPJ categorizes its Articles section and other resources into several (somewhat useful) demographic and other categories (sorts of filters, with separate but overlapping webpages), including: (1) “Students and Scholars;” (2) “Faith-Based Organizations” (ministries, etc.), and (3) “Advocates and Policymakers,” to name some. Current events and policy-analysis are plentiful in its Articles. International subjects are also covered, sometimes.
[nb: It seems as of 2022, CPJ’s premium journals, Public Justice Review, and Shared Justice (for youth) have ceased and been folded into its Articles section (Shared Justice is now a scholars program and a filter in “Articles”)]
Scholarly Journals, Articles: Public Justice Review: This is no longer being published (archived as of late ‘22, it seems), and is now also a filter in CPJ’s Articles section (see above). It was a strong, online justice journal covering a wide range of topics in law and politics, including international issues; its past volumes are available and worth seeing, by contacting CPJ); for independent Scholarly Articles, see in “Articles,” above
General Christian Worldview Themes: Morality, Theology, Law, Government, Education
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
The Christian Institute exists for “the furtherance and promotion of the Christian religion in the United Kingdom” and “the advancement of education.” CI is committed to upholding the truths of the Bible in society, as Scripture (the Bible) is seen as the supreme and inerrant authority for all of life. CI focuses on Research, Reporting, and Campaigns (actual case advocacy). Through its Legal Defense Fund, CI takes on actual cases, mostly on religious liberty, gender identity, education, and similar corresponding issues (see its Annual Review: All for the Glory of God, and similar Reports).
CI is a very strong informational source with a wide variety of excellent resources, on most of the interesting issues of the day. CI offers an enjoyable, varied collection of media and print resources, including lots of Videos. Although concentrating on the UK, CI’s strong coverage on issues makes it a must for international issues, and it also has some specific international coverage. CI’s actual case advocacy makes it unique among information/resourcing groups. CI has been working at this for over 30 years; highly recommended to study the important issues.
The Christian Institute Resources
Scholarly Articles (Essays): See in “Publications.” This is a solid compilation of short and long articles or essays on important issues (in an online magazine-style, with pdf downloads, and including citations to authority); it’s combined with booklets, briefings, guides, studies, and other interesting items; this page goes the extra mile, as it very conveniently connects you to CI’s latest Newsletter, its Annual Review: All for the Glory of God, and its short Audio + Books collections – it’s a great “one-stop-shop” for almost all their resources.
News Articles: See in its “News” page; see also Scholarly Articles (Essays), above, as many articles there also periodically cover contemporary news issues (thus fitting also in News Articles); [nb: here, the caption ‘News Articles’ simply refers to CI’s shortest news items, covering events not only in the UK, but globally, from a Christian worldview]; coverage includes: gender issues, abortion, the Church, parental rights, suicide, and many more subjects; see also Videos (covering similar issues in the news).
Lectures: See Videos
Videos: Several sets and series are available; some are more teaching and lecture-oriented, while others are more news-oriented (see News Articles above); check out their “Autumn Lectures” (an annual, fall series of lectures on just about anything relevant)
Podcasts & Audio: A series in topics, ranging from Theology to Government and so much more in between,
Other: They have curated a special section of Theology resources, specifically theological issues on policy, government, and contemporary issues
Books: See “Publications”
General Christian Worldview Themes: Some Theology
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
Started by Chuck Colson of Prison Fellowship, the Colson Center is famous for its BreakPoint Podcasts and Articles/Blogs (almost the same content in each), covering a variety of today’s hot social issues, including those with international dimensions.
Highly recommended to keep you up to date on a variety of big social-legal issues impacting Christians and all of society. Check out BreakPoint, and also the Video Series, What Would You Say?, and visit their Training programs (see below)
Podcasts (3):
BreakPoint (CC’s famous daily treasure on important issues);
Upstream (discussing “hard questions,” for all-age audiences);
Videos: What Would You Say? (a set of short biblical videos, to the point, with subjects on just about everything for everyone interested in seeking a biblical worldview; we highly recommend these for sharing with skeptics; they’re likely underutilized, and shouldn’t be)
News Journals Articles (Blogs): In “Articles,” BreakPoint: These are usually transcriptions of the Podcasts, but these short, pithy, blogish posts cover everything from historical Christian thought on politics (Constantine, Augustine, etc.) to current events in US and International news.
Curriculum (Classes & Training): Yes, they have both. Training is through the unique Colson Fellows program (offering small training cohorts in person and online, in the US and Internationally, including in Singapore, South Korea, Australia, Canada, India, EU, and for pastors and leaders of all stripes); special collaborative courses are also offered in the Colson Educators program
[Listing a whole host of Study Centers & Institutes you may want to get acquainted with, largely in North America, yet internationally connected. See Universities/Students SCITTs, Subset (3), Inter-Univ. SCITTs]
[See SCITTs on Apologetics]
General Christian Worldview Themes: Culture, Justice, Nation-Kingdom Building
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
DNA’s agenda is to follow Jesus’ call: “to advance the kingdom of God by discipling all nations.” DNA notes in its strategy: “Biblical truth and love has the power to change the world from the inside-out. It transforms lives, builds flourishing communities, and disciples nations.” (from its website).
DNA’s traditional training focus is on pastors and church leaders, supporting the idea that the church should lead in kingdom building and true national transformation in each sphere of society; that said, DNA’s resources and training courses are clearly impactful and valuable for Christians serving specifically in law and government. DNA also has an “Affiliates” program, connecting them to many useful international organizations, sharing our similar ideals.
DNA Key Resources Curriculum (Christian Worldview Course): In Coram Deo (their key asset, it’s an essential basic training program, superb for any student or advocate wanting to understand how biblical Christian worldview impacts their own nation’s transformation; available as an Online Course, with Videos, and homework assignments; we use this as Isaiah Justice Institute’s first class on Christian worldview) Books: Several classics, and a new item: Why Social Justice is Not Biblical Justice, by Scott Allen (this is a great resource for understanding a Christian response to today’s modern, secular-humanistIc Social Justice movements); also recommended: Discipling Nations, by Darrow Miller (a classic must read); and, If Jesus Were Mayor, by Bob Moffett; DNA has a good library, with its own book recommendations of other authors as well. Videos: Yes, on many topics, including the Coram Deo lectures, and going beyond that Other: Podcasts; Articles; Blog {by Darrow Miller, others} Seminars: Contact some of their leading scholars, Darrow Miller, Bob Moffett, Scott Allen
General Christian Worldview Themes: Apologetics, Intelligent Design, Artificial Intelligence, Science, Economics Theology, Media, Education
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
Soft, Hard Advocacy (especially for Educational Freedom in schools, teaching ID and Creation Science; and solving the Homeless Crisis) [See SCITTs on Apologetics (although DI is so much more than that)]
General Christian Worldview Themes: Government, Constitution, Courts, Economics, Education
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
This is a well-acclaimed think tank. “Founded in 1976, the Ethics and Public Policy Center is Washington, D.C.’s premier institute dedicated to applying the Judeo-Christian moral tradition to critical issues of public policy. EPPC and its scholars have consistently sought to defend the great Western ethical imperatives — respect for the inherent dignity of the human person, individual freedom and responsibility, justice, the rule of law, and limited government. Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish perspectives are all represented here.” (from its website). EPPC has an impressive system of packaging its resources (i.e., its Articles, Videos, Audio-podcasts) into easy-to-search, subject-themed “Programs” (covering the subjects above).
The long and deep bench of EPPC’s Scholars, and their articles, are what make EPPC so good. Scholarship, however, often tends to concentrate largely on Catholic political thought or on American domestic issues (although there are occasionally some international selections). Several of EPPC’s contributing scholars and writers are famous in their fields, and their articles are often published in other periodicals or journals, but are gathered here into an easy reference system, by EPPC. The combination of Articles with Interviews, Videos, Audios, and other Media into EPPC’s own system of subject-themed Programs is somewhat unique, and very helpful for researchers seeking good materials on a number of important social issues.
See “Programs” and “Publications” sections (click separately for each); “Programs” includes an assortment of media and journal resources, such as Articles, Videos, Audios, Interviews on each theme (using Programs is the best way to search information) Scholarly Journals, Articles; and News Journal Articles (Blogish): It’s a real mix of curated materials, set in “Publications” (items range from short, scholarly articles [often 1st published in external journals, yet rarely with citations to authorities], to opinion blogs and current events (news)). All such Articles and other materials are also categorized in EPPC’s “Programs.”
General Christian Worldview Themes: All, Government, Law
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“The Ezra Institute was founded in 2009 . . . as an evangelical think-tank and worldview training organization . . . .” Its motto is: “Informing Faith, Reforming Culture,” and it aims at, “[a]rticulating and advancing a Christian philosophy for every sphere of life and thought.” (from its website). The Ezra Institute takes seriously its charge to teach a biblical Christian worldview impacting every sphere of life, as seen in its training programs, and resources. An Informational Video says it best.
A great deal on political philosophy, on natural law and other systems, and current social issues (for Canada and anywhere), shared in a wide variety of media. You can probably find material on any topics of current Christian interest touched upon here, to some degree (it’s very complete).
In General: See its “Podcast” for Cultural Reformation; EI also has Debates and Interviews (several recorded on various issues). Scholarly Articles (Essays), News Journal Articles, and Blog(s): In “Articles by Topic” (this has several sections/topics including “Theology,” “Apologetics,” “Law,” “Politics,” “Education,” and many more; some articles have citations to authority, although mostly bloggish in style; authors are Joseph Boot, the founder, and several others); these Articles formerly appeared in EI’s publication, Jubilee (see older posts); see also its “Blog Entries” (separate, short pieces by Joseph Boot) Books: EI’s and various other authors in a solid selection Curriculum (Classes & Training) (3):
i) Worldview Youth Academy (ages 15-18; 1 week; applying biblical faith to issues today)
ii) Christianity and Culture Colloquium (covering all social spheres; 4 days in residence)
iii) H. Evan Runner International Academy (10 days, for youth in all spheres)
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
GTN is active in 50 countries and is part of the Statesmen Project. It does training and networking of local teams “to develop long-term, 7-sphere strategic plans to transform their nations,” for Christ, including in the government sphere. GTN is “[a]n Alliance of local Community Action Councils to disciple nations.” (quotes from the website). GTN is “apostolic” and “prophetic” in its orientation, as they say.
Most of its work involves intensive on-site Training and Seminars. It’s a small but influential team, giving lots of hands-on strategies. Some Books and other resources are available. Its impact is growing in several continents. It partners with other SCITTs featured on our site (like DNA, and Transform World) so it has some global reach.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Calling, Creation, Economics, Government Systems,Theology
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
IFWE “educates Christians to live out a biblical theology that integrates faith, work and economics . . . [it advances] a free and flourishing society by revolutionizing the way people view their work.”
It’s a good first stop for anyone serving in law or government, or called to, and in any field, actually. IFWE has a wealth of informational resources on economic systems and in some general topics, going beyond one’s vocational issues.
Scholarly Articles (Essays): In “Articles and Research.” Here is a well-organized index of very important Articles and Essays (e.g., Moral Law and the Ten Commandments; on biblical foundations of free markets, and so on); really, this has some of the best reads on the basics we’ve seen (it’s hard to find this collection at first, so we inserted its link above) Other: Books; Bible Studies; Sermons; Curriculum {available on its “Learn” tab, where you’ll find writings such as Theology 101, and “Collections” on the subjects above; it’s fun to browse}
General Christian Worldview Themes: Theology, Government, Society
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
IRD is a “faith-based alliance of Christians, who monitor, comment, and report on issues affecting the church.” Its mission: “We are Christians working to reaffirm the church’s biblical and historical teachings, strengthen and reform its role in public life, protect religious freedom, and renew democracy at home and abroad.” Vision: “To lead the fight rallying Christians to champion biblical historic Christianity and its role in democratic society . . . ” (all quotes from its website). IRD seeks to address issues at an international level through its main journal’s International Religious Liberty section. It also has an International Religious Liberty Program. Several good publications capture its valiant struggle to restore biblically orthodox thinking on social issues among Christianity’s mainline churches, including internationally (see below).
IRD is striving to stop the incessant straying away from biblical truth, sadly so common among mainline Christian denominations today. It proposes and shares more biblically-centered Anglican, Methodist, Evangelical and Presbyterian perspectives on the church’s role in a variety of social-legal issues (but the strongest emphasis is on classically orthodox Methodist ideology). Its main Journal, Providence, makes this site worth it.
Scholarly Journals (2): (i) Providence (a journal of Christianity and American foreign policy): It’s a great resource, somewhat a mix between a Scholarly Journal, and a Blog on current events and issues. One can find articles here in subjects as varied as, the ills of communism, American nationalism, and some recent Egyptian church burnings. It’s also a lot more than a journal with such varieties in it. Providence is a full online library and resource center in itself, with Podcasts, Interviews, and Videos built into this journal/periodical. It’s easy for anyone to get up to speed on almost any current political topic here, while in the same space diving into big theological issues surrounding society and government. See also: (ii) Faith & Freedom (Faith based commentary on the intersection between faith and freedom in the contemporary world) (similar to an online, periodical-styled magazine, with lots of good topics, and issued four times a year; it has some scholarly aspects but is largely also News Commentary item) [separate citations to authorities in both publications are absent or rare]. News Journal Articles: See Faith & Freedom (above); see also Providence (above) Blog: Juicy Ecumenism (a catchy name with a lot of content, and with a clear emphasis on United Methodist issues, specifically saving itself from “woke” ideology) Other: International Religious Liberty Program (much of this is coming from its Juicy Ecumenism, a collection of articles involving Christians experiencing hardships in Islamic lands and in similar situations); see also, its Mount Nebo Papers (archived research papers covering some important topics on religious influence in public policy)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Culture, Entertainment, Science, Politics
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“The International Organization for the Family (IOF) unites and equips leaders worldwide to promote the natural family.” (from its website). It achieves its mission through 4 main activities: i) The World Congress of Families (WCF) convening major international events defending “the natural family as the only fundamental and sustainable unit of society;” ii) The Natural Family: An International Journal of Research and Policy (TNF), “a quarterly academic publication [promoting the natural family] and . . . protecting the sanctity and dignity of all human life;” iii) The Article 16 Initiative (A16), a more advocacy oriented program (referring to Art. 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights); iv) The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP), which “equips and empowers young professionals, scholars, and activists to promote marriage, and the natural family as the fundamental group unit of society.” (quotes from its website)
It’s a conservative, biblical-worldview-based organization (although it isn’t always directly mentioned, it’s clear from its publications). While IOF seems to focus on the natural family, clearly it has a wide range of materials on very connected issues, such as Life, and Religious, Similar Liberties for those victimized by LGBTQ+ activists. Its wealth of news articles on all these topics is IOF’s strength. IOF seeks to extend its international coverage. It was formed out of the leadership, in the past, of the National Organization for Marriage (NOM).
News Articles: International Family News (a strong and wide range of topics (above) on current events, focused on pro-family and pro-life issues) Scholarly Journals: The Natural Family: An International Journal of Research and Policy (TNF) (subscription only, but one can see portions of Articles without a subscription; it provides expanded Articles on previous topics, book reviews and family-related Research Articles) Video: The Brian Brown Show (president’s interviews)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Biblical-“relational thinking,” on Economic, Social, and Political issues, Nation Building
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“The Jubilee Centre seeks to apply biblical thinking to develop a vision for a just and thriving economic, social and political order. The Jubilee Centre exists to help Christians connect their faith to public life, and over the last 35 years two themes have emerged which summarise its approach: seeing biblical law as providing a roadmap for society and using the principle of right relationships as a compass to find our way.” (by TOL, below)
JC is undergoing some organizational restructuring (trustee issues) since 2023, impacting its website content. Its focus is theological, and on changing society in several areas (similar to spheres). It accordingly employs a theological structure of “relational thinking” in contrast to staunch Western “individualism.” Its focus goes well beyond law and politics, to economics and other spheres. Some concerns emerged of slightly left-of-center moves in a few specific issues, such as in climate change, immigration, capitalism. Several good reading resources still exist:
Scholarly Articles, Essays: In “Short Papers:” There are about 30 such Short Papers (and some are clearly not short); coverage is on a variety of topics, including Economics, Church, State, and Family; dates vary with many older (and longer) ones, to much more recent; all downloadable in pdf. [Ed. note: it’s often hard to distinguish these items from “Research Reports” (next); separate citations to authority may exist, but vary among issues and Articles.] Scholarly Research Studies, Reports, and Scholarly Articles: In “Research Reports:” 15+ in areas above, including subjects of poverty & families, business ethics, and environmental stewardship; these range widely in length and dates; several top ones are captioned as “Short Guides” in JC’s “Thinking Biblically About“ series for some of its specific topics; also downloadable in pdf. [Ed. note: in actuality, many (in not most) of these so-called “Research Reports,” are much more similar to Scholarly Articles, Essays (see above). Scholarly Journals, Articles: In “Cambridge Papers” (a sister website), and its own “Selected Cambridge Papers:” JC is associated with this collection of Papers, and gives links to them in these two sets. Both sets cover Christian worldview thinking on a variety of social-legal issues (e.g., Critical Race Theory, church life, etc.) Books: Several here. A famous one, worth reading is, God, Justice and Society; aspects of law and legality in the Bible (2010), by Dr. Jonathan Burnside; it has some other noteworthy ones. Other: Bible Studies (several, in about 10 arranged categories)
[See Subset (3), Secondary, Additional Sources]
[See SCITTs on Apologetics, and see Universities/Students SCITTs, Subset (3), Inter-Univ. SCITTs, Student Ministries]
General Christian Worldview Themes: Theology, Law, Justice
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
Featuring the works of scholar and activist Vishal Mangalwadi, the Revelation Movement seeks to restore biblical truth in culture and public life, in India and around the world, through education and other programs. Dr. Vishal has published numerous written works, and speaks at seminars and conferences around the globe.
Revelation Movement Key Resources In General: Scholarly Articles (Essays, Blog, Lectures); Books; Radio; Video; Film/Documentary Initiatives; Seminars & Speaking {all available on this site; Articles and Blogs are sometimes sporadic}.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Apologetics, Society, Culture, Theology
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“Stand to Reason trains Christians to think more clearly about their faith and to make an even-handed, incisive, yet gracious defense for classical Christianity and classical Christian values in the public square.” (from its website).
A variety of well organized resources (see kinds below) are clearly laid out on its site, with other helpful content on a variety of hot button social issues. Issues can be searched in “Topics” (several), with all the kinds of relevant resources already incorporated into a particular Topic. Overall, very good site content and easy for studying and learning.
Scholarly Articles: In “Articles” (a bloggish series on important issues of faith and society, including hot button social issues like bioethics, marriage, transgenderism, and law) In General: Blog {see Scholarly Articles}; Videos {covering same issues}; Podcasts {live, weekly, some specialized} Seminars, Training: Several opportunities exist, including a “Reality,” Student Apologetics Conference and community Outposts (sorts of discussion groups)
[See SCITTs on Apologetics (Youth)]
General Christian Worldview Themes: Christian Thinking on Law and Justice; Integrating Faith into a Law Practice
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“We help, encourage and inspire Christian lawyers, and anyone else interested in law, to deeply and authentically integrate their faith and work. At Theology of Law we curate and produce relevant and rigorous resources that explore God’s heart for justice, his purposes for law, and what it means to follow Jesus in modern day legal thought and practice.” (from website)
David McIlroy is part of the Lawyers Christian Fellowship, UK, a practicing lawyer, scholar and leader in the integration of the Christian faith in Law. He writes prolifically on the subject and we recommend his work. Prof. McIlroy also serves as an Advisor for Isaiah Justice Institute. TOL anchors his work and those of like minded scholars. If you teach law, as a Christian, or want to see how Scripture connects to a lawyer’s calling, check out TOL’s articles and other resources.
Scholarly Articles, Essays: see over 50 journal-published articles by David McIlroy on the topics above (in external journals) Books: 3 chief ones by David McIlroy are included and available for purchase (see also other books TOL recommends): The End of Law (How Law’s Claims Relate to Law’s Aims); A Biblical View of Law and Justice (Christian Perspectives on Law); A Trinitarian Theology of Law Blogs: In “TOL Blog:” Soul Care for Lawyers (a 15+ part series to help lawyers in their calling and craft) Videos: In “Presentations and Lecures,” Video Presentations, with over 30 lectures on nine topics such as: “Theology of Law” (a 5 part series), Christian “Worldview,” “Justice,” “Human Rights,” “Law and Morality,” Economics, and “Church and State” Audio/Podcast: In “Presentations and Lectures,” Audio Presentations, another series of about 15 podcasts, similar to videos Newsletter: Subscription available, to catch up on TOL’s latest resources Curriculum: Masters level educational units are available in some contexts
General Christian Worldview Themes: Culture, Politics, Some Law
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
Theos conducts research, publishes reports, and holds debates, seminars and lectures on the relationship between religion, politics and society in the contemporary world. We are a Christian think tank based in the UK.
Much of its fine work on biblical worldview is culturally oriented, and not so specifically focused on issues of law, justice, and government; also it closely caters to the UK audience. Still, some good pieces are worth searching out in its wide variety of resources.
Scholarly Research Studies, Reports (including some Books): Multiple topics are indexed, including such subjects of interest as “Law,” “Immigration,” “Global Politics,” “Identity Politics,” “Church,” “International Development,” and many others (all searchable categories). TTT’s Reports (50+ have been issued so far), come in two sizes: lengthy (which most are), and are of rigorous academic quality, including appropriate citations to authority; and shorter (10-ish pages), aka “Briefing Papers.” Books are included among TTT’s “Research-Reports” section. Books: About 10 Books are in its “Research-Books” section (announcing also upcoming works); items can be downloaded for free or purchased. News Articles: In Comment, In Brief, TTT offers several short articles and commentaries in this section (Comment is actually a varied, mixed media resource category, including 2 kinds of Articles, 2 kinds of Podcasts (The Sacred, and Reading Our Times), Book Reviews, and other information) Scholarly Articles: In Comment, ln Depth,TTT offers occasional, full-length articles, including the same subjects in its Research Reports Index (above), and supplementing those (in some rare instances, Scholarly Articles have separate citations to authority) News Media (Press Releases): TTT uses Press Releases and other media, when it seeks to be “In the News” (in television, newspapers, etc.) Consulting: In the “Research-Consultancy” section. TTT consults organizations, including faith-based ones, for their own research and similar needs; contact TTT here for consultation services.
General Christian Worldview Themes: State, Politics, Law, Education, Economics
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“The Witherspoon Institute is an independent center that renews culture by fostering the intellectual and moral formation of students, families, and tomorrow’s leaders.” (from its website). It engages in three main programming activities: “Academic Programs” (serving students and educators at all levels from high school to postgraduate studies); “Canavox” (an international marriage strengthening ministry – including select readings and videos); and Public Discourse (PD) (WI’s primary journal). This high caliber journal covers subjects in what it calls the five pillars of society, which are its resource sections: the “Human Person,” “Sexuality & Family,” “Politics & Law,” “Education & Culture,” and “Business & Economics.” PD’s articles and related resources are organized into these five sections, so it’s easy to hone in on what you are looking for. WI also has 3 special collections of its studies (see below).
Although WI does not publicize a distinct Christian Worldview in its resources, it has one, as exemplified by its commitment to truth, and in honoring the thinking of John Witherspoon, a Calvinist and founding father in the US. International scope is available in some covered topics, even if indirectly. WI has close ties to Christian scholars at Princeton University.
Scholarly Journals: Public Discourse (see above: more than a written online journal, PD has several other multimedia features built into its pages, such as Videos and Webinars on its topics) Scholarly Articles: See compilations of these in 3 Scholarly Research Studies (topics below) Books (Publications): A good selection of authors and topics, available for online purchase; several books are collections of essays or papers from WI. Seminars, Curriculum (Academic Programs): Seasonal seminars, and academic programs designed for high school through graduate level academics Scholarly Research Studies (Articles): Special Libraries & Collections: 3 Special Collections of Research Studies and Articles assembled by WI on these topics (some studies are a bit older):
i) Natural Law, Natural Rights and American Constitutionalism (a separate website with several Essays/Articles in an updated collection, covering the history, theology and philosophy on this subject over eons; very useful internationally, despite the American title reference;
ii) Family Structure Studies (another site, including data Studies (up to 2012) and subsequent Articles supporting the traditional family, with responses from others, and rejoinders, in this recently updated, collated articles series);
iii) The Social Costs of Pornography (this site holds key Studies showing harms, in a collection of Papers (288 pp.), at Princeton University in 2008 (still useful in some ways))
News: Announcements of WI resources (new books, publications, events, etc.)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Theology, Justice, Government
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
The WEA is an extensive global organization, started in 1846 and representing the Church and millions of Christians around the world. Its work is organized into several Commissions (such as a Theological Commission, and a Religious Liberty Commission); or, in issue-specific Institutes/Networks, such as the International Institute for Religious Freedom (IIRF); or by several issue-specific Task Forces, and sometimes by Campaigns/Initiatives (collectively, and for convenience, we shall call all these WEA’s Sub-organizations) These Sub-organizations usually exemplify fine scholarship and offer a wealth of good resources in their respective areas. Some Networks and Task Forces engage in varying degrees of Advocacy in their fields also (see below). Since several of these efforts intersect with our interests, we highlight a few in a separate section below. Visit especially the Global Advocacy and Public Engagement squares on their Homepage for more about WEA’s advocacy. As a global Evangelical Alliance, WEA meets infrequently, roughly once per decade (but meets more often nationally and regionally, and it has directories for those assemblies). On some issues, it works closely with other International Organizations (IOs), including the United Nations (UN).; e.g., WEA has earned Special Consultative Status with the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
WEA has a wide range of resources intersecting with many, or most, of our 10 Specific interest areas. Its greatest research treasure is the Books & Booklets in its “Global Issues Series” (see below). In some ways, WEA seems too spread out. It can take significant effort just to find some good resources in key interests. WEA’s available directories of its national and regional sections alleviates some of its “too large” sentiment. Its involvement in the UN on several issues is a plus or a minus among Evangelicals (depending on one’s spiritual viewpoint).
Books & Booklets: See WEA’s Global Issues Series (now featuring 22 topical books). Several subjects are covered, including many corresponding to our 10 specific interest areas. News, (Incl. Press Releases): News Events and happenings moving in a positive direction (blogish), (also Commissions, Institutes/Networks, and Task Forces may carry their own news items) Videos/Podcasts: See WEA On Air WEA Suborganizations (these are sub-entities the reader should consider in researching):
In General: Some resources are available for “Churches” and “Children,” specifically, via its named “Partners” (i.e. other organizations)
In General: Papers, Books and other writings are in the Global Issues Series. Events/Conferences: Often these are done with the UN on so-called “Climate Change;” the cooperation with the UN seems a regular aspect of their work.
In General: Books; PDF downloads {some require a subscription}; a Newsletter {subscription (for recent ones) or archived (without subscription)}; Blog {yes, but not up to date}; Podcast: All Things Reconciled (regularly offered)
This Subset covers mostly single, specific-issue, or combined sets of closely-connected issues, handled by an SCITT. “Issues,” in this context, refers to our 10 Specific Issues, or our 10 Advocacy-Justice Service Areas (sometimes we call this our 10 Specific Interests). A SCITT’s narrower focus on any one (or a cluster) of these 10 Issues is often clearly seen in its name (i.e., the Family Research Council informs on Marriage & Family issues, etc.). SCITTS having such specific name-identities strongly influences our choice to include them in this Subset. You may also notice here, SCITTS focusing specifically on issues of Life, and/or traditional Marriage & Family will typically also have a focus on Religious and Similar Liberties (since worldview on the first two issues is closely related to Religious views). It’s very common in Subset (2) to see all three of these issues covered by a single SCITT, and yet we chose to list it in this supposedly “Single/Specific-Issue(s)” space. It’s because of that sensible, common overlapping among some closely-connected issues (from among our 10 Specific Interests), that we include such connected-issue SCITTS here. In addition, some SCITTS in this Subset may, at times, also delve into General and Foundational worldview subjects in their materials. If so, we see this as not so much their main identity (otherwise they would be in Subset (1)), but we do try to note such overlaps into the General side, in their name headings here. As in Subset (1), so here also in Subset (2), if a SCITT intentionally engages in some version of Advocacy, Soft or Hard, we try to provide a separate link to it on the Advocacy Resources page, as well as in this Subset. So here is our listing in alphabetical order for SCITTS in Subset (2):
General Christian Worldview Themes: Apologetics (including a new series, with Summit), Education, Government
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“[FRC] champions marriage and family as the foundation of civilization, the seedbed of virtue. . . For over 35 years, we have been committed to advancing faith, family, and freedom in public policy and the culture from a biblical worldview.” (from its website and archives). FRC influences and informs all 3 branches of US government with Christian, biblical perspectives on key policy issues involving Life, Marriage & Family, Sexuality, and Religious and other Liberties associated with these issues. It gets involved with legal advocacy on these issues (usually as amicus curiae). FRC also has several acclaimed informational resources it shares (see below).
Although much of FRC’s focus is on specific US policy issues, the impact of its work in our shared areas of interest is so helpful internationally, we chose to include it in this site.
(NEW) News Journal Articles: Washington Stand (News and Commentary from a Biblical Worldview): It is a new media resource, meant to combat the biases of secular mainstream media outlets, covering all the important social issues of the day from a Christ-honoring perspective; sign up! Podcast (Radio Show): Washington Watch, with Tony Perkins: It features interviews with congressional and other leaders, while “Standing for Faith, Family, & Freedom;” and broadcasts on many Christian and other radio stations. Video/TV/Interviews: Tony Perkins and others at FRC are often interviewed on major TV and News outlets on important social-legal issues. Old Archives: Washington Update (an online newsletter through May 2022, focusing on policy issues, including some having a global impact); a Blog (up through June 2023) (see Washington Stand instead, as the online periodical for updated information and news) Other, Press: In “Press-Releases” and “Op-eds“
General Christian Worldview Themes: Apologetics, “The Truth Project”
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
Founded by Dr. James Dobson, FOF is the premiere Christian organization in America and Internationally (over several decades), for teaching and supporting a classic biblical Christian worldview on marriage, family, sexuality, life, and religious liberty, and on similar issues associated with those big ones. It serves in both private and public life, and is strengthening its international reach. FOF is famous for its many Radio and Video programs over many years, reaching (and entertaining) millions with biblical truths on these important social issues. They have resources of all kinds and for all generations. As they say: “Through our radio broadcasts, [films, and shows], websites, simulcasts, conferences, interactive forums, magazines, books, counseling and much more, Focus on the Family equips parents, children and spouses to thrive in an ever-changing, ever-more-complicated world.” (from its website).
An essential ministry tool for strengthening faith, families, and churches anywhere, FOF goes beyond this focus to influence all of culture and the government sphere with biblically sound policies and analysis. They have many entertaining shows and programs for all ages. It should be visited often.
Focus on the Family Key Resources News Journal, Articles: The Daily Citizen (“. . . supporting the institutions of family, church, and government according to God’s design and purpose”) Podcasts: Daily Broadcast (all topics on strengthening family life)
The Institute for Family Studies (IFS) is dedicated to strengthening marriage and family life, and advancing the well-being of children through research and public education . . . we invite you to learn more about ways to strengthen families in America and around the world.” (from its website). Many of their Articles and similar items are featured or referenced in other famous publications, and collected here for ease of reference.
This is a solid Research Institute. Its work supports strengthening families according to Christian values through data. IFS’s Research is reported in 3 main categories: “Reports,” “Briefs” (used legislatively), and “Books & Articles” (all are well organized and easy to locate on this site). Some international issues are included in Reports.
In General: “Blog” {a vibrant selection of stories}; Scholarly Research Studies, in “Reports” {colorful and helpful, worth checking into, with National, Regional and Global varieties; The Global Family is a specific Report addressing international issues impacting families}; “Briefs” {including legislative ones}; and “Books & Articles” {several, see above}
General Christian Worldview Themes: Theology
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
The IIRF is a key Institute of the WEA (see WEA in Subset (1)). It engages with the Religious Liberty Commission of the WEA to help persecuted Christians. “The IIRF aspires to be an authoritative voice on religious freedom. We provide reliable and unbiased data on religious freedom – beyond anecdotal evidence – to strengthen academic research on the topic and to inform public policy at all levels. Our research results are disseminated through the International Journal for Religious Freedom and other publications.” (from its website, emphasis ours). An important aim of the IIRF is to impact the study of religious liberty in universities, through its research and analysis. The IIRF has several highly acclaimed resources and publications available for students and advocates alike:
Scholarly Journals: International Journal For Religious Freedom (IJRF) (a well-known scholarly journal, covering important religious liberty issues around the world) Books: Several (13), of their quality Books and Booklets touch on this theme (see also WEA’s high-quality, compact booklet series on several other of our 10 interest areas, in addition to religious liberty, in its “Global Issues Series” (22 topical Booklets so far, and increasing)) Scholarly Research Studies, Reports: IIRF Reports (extensive, going back several years, on specific countries and issues, addressing religious liberty and other human rights) News including Press Releases; It has 3 kinds in its “News” section: “IIRF Updates” (current IIRF activities and more); “Statements” (Position Statements and Press Releases, expressing IIRF’s views on specific issues); “Religious Freedom News“ (for the latest info.)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Culture, Entertainment, Science, Politics
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“The International Organization for the Family (IOF) unites and equips leaders worldwide to promote the natural family.” (from its website). It achieves its mission through 4 main activities: i) The World Congress of Families (WCF) convening major international events defending “the natural family as the only fundamental and sustainable unit of society;” ii) The Natural Family: An International Journal of Research and Policy (TNF), “a quarterly academic publication [promoting the natural family] and . . . protecting the sanctity and dignity of all human life;” iii) The Article 16 Initiative (A16), a more advocacy oriented program (referring to Art. 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights); iv) The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP), which “equips and empowers young professionals, scholars, and activists to promote marriage, and the natural family as the fundamental group unit of society.” (quotes from its website)
It’s a conservative, biblical-worldview-based organization (although it isn’t always directly mentioned, it’s clear from its publications). While IOF seems to focus on the natural family, clearly it has a wide range of materials on very connected issues, such as Life, and Religious, Similar Liberties for those victimized by LGBTQ+ activists. Its wealth of news articles on all these topics is IOF’s strength. IOF seeks to extend its international coverage. It was formed out of the leadership, in the past, of the National Organization for Marriage (NOM).
News Articles: International Family News (a strong and wide range of topics (above) on current events) Scholarly Journals: The Natural Family: An International Journal of Research and Policy (TNF) (subscription only, but one can see portions of Articles without a subscription; it provides expanded Articles on previous topics, book reviews and family-related Research Articles) Video: The Brian Brown Show (president’s interviews)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Theology, Government, Rights
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
Institute Leimena is an Indonesian think tank and policy advocate seeking to involve the church in nation building, in Indonesia, and globally. It focuses on religious protection (pluralism) in Indonesia.
They tend to focus on a distinctively Reformed Christian perspective in their work.
Short Scholarly Articles (Blogs): CIVIS (short article format on topics, a bit dated) News Articles, Press, Media: IL contributes Articles, columns and commentary on current issues, or is covered by media, in many periodicals in Indonesia (Kompas, etc.) and internationally (see Indonesian and English articles in its Press tab) News: IL News (a short article format, available online, of IL’s activities) Videos: WargaNegara (a YouTube Channel)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Religious, Similar Liberties
[See Advocacy Groups, and see Scholarly Journals, Articles Square, Subset (3), Research Studies, Reports] “Open Doors serves persecuted Christians around the world by providing vital support, delivering resources, and providing training.” (from the website). They have over 25 national offices, and keep detailed Reports, and Full Country Dossiers concerning persecuted Christians. They also provide a “World Watch List” on persecution, short Articles, and Advocacy Resources.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Culture
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“The Ruth Institute is a global interfaith coalition equipping Christians to defend the family and build a civilization of love.” Their desire is to see every child live in a loving home with married parents. Featuring the scholarship and writing of founder Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse (a leader in this field), and Rev (Fr.) D. Paul Sullins, Ph.D.
Their activity is really all about fighting a cultural war, waged against families and human-biblical sexuality, using solid education and research. They take special aim at the “Sexual Revolution,” seeking to serve its surviving victims. RI also has shared roots with NOM (above). It’s a small team doing a lot of work.
Since helping in the cultural war, they have developed several core “Resource Centers” on each of six issues: “Transgenderism,” “Marriage,” “Censorship” (against Christian perspectives), “Population Myths,” and “Mothers,” and “Fathers.” All media is separated and marked by icons for easier searching in each category (see link). Specific items include: Articles/Blogs (Stories): Ruth Speaks Out (a blog on the above topics, active to date) Video/Podcasts: The Dr. J Show (mostly Vlogs of Dr. Morse’s interviews with guests), and the Ruth Institute Podcast (same show, as a Podcast with transcripts) Scholarly Research Studies (Summaries, Articles): See the above six Resource Centers (several publications of (Rev.) D. Paul Sullins in professional journals are gathered here for easy access, and are integral to his Research on transgenderism, sexual-orientation changes, and parenting; some Slide Presentations (in PDF) are also included here) Books: A key Book is The Sexual State (by Dr. Morse, on how elite ideologies are destroying lives, and the State’s weaponizing of sex); several items, including works of other recommended authors, are also available for purchase. Other Media: Pamphlets, DVDs, CDs, etc. News Media (Press Releases): (includes addressing international issues in Africa, etc.) Newsletter: available by subscription
Sometimes also known as “the global coalition against corruption.” As stated on their site: “[f]rom villages in rural India to the corridors of power in Brussels, Transparency International gives voice to the victims and witnesses of corruption. We work together with governments, businesses and citizens to stop the abuse of power, bribery and secret deals. As a global movement with one vision, we want a world free of corruption. Through chapters in more than 100 countries and an international secretariat in Berlin, we are leading the fight against corruption to turn this vision into reality.” (quotes from its site). TI is famous for its Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), issued as annual Reports with national rankings of corruption.
Although not a specifically Christian organization, it’s a very useful one. We think Christians as advocates should get involved with them; their values align and they seek out the sources of corruption. The CPI is a key tool. They also assist, and do, some Advocacy.
In General: It has a solid 4-Section Library consisting of “Publications,” “Curriculum” (Courses), “Toolkits,” and “Videos,” covering the economic and social impacts of corruption, and seeking key strategies to stop it. Scholarly Research Studies (Data), Reports: In “Publications,” sorted by topics and by countries/areas, including in the annual CPI and in similar items; use the Filters to search for types of Reports and topics.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Corruption
“Unashamedly Ethical is a global movement of individuals and organizations guided by a founding vision to transform society by taking a stand for ethics, values and clean living. The goal of this movement is to develop an unashamedly ethical culture among this generation of leaders and the next.” Their vision is, “Transforming Leaders | Transforming Nations.” (from site)
Scholarly Research Studies (Data), Reports: In “Resources” (it has a few articles on ethics research and a Report on the CPI) Voice of the Martyrs (International) 10 Specific Issues (Religious, Similar Liberties) [See Advocacy Groups] “VOM is a missionary organization that serves persecuted Christians in the world’s most difficult and dangerous places to be a Christian.” (from website). It was founded by Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand after their imprisonment in Romania (long ago). VOM is more about Advocacy than a think tank, but offers a free subscription to a vitally important publication all Christians should read: Voice of the Martyrs Magazine. They also have a series of Books.
“VOM is a missionary organization that serves persecuted Christians in the world’s most difficult and dangerous places to be a Christian.” (from website). It was founded by Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand after their imprisonment in Romania (long ago). VOM is more about Advocacy than a think tank, but offers a free subscription to a vitally important publication all Christians should read: Voice of the Martyrs Magazine. They also have a series of Books.
“The World Justice Project® (WJP) is an independent, multidisciplinary organization working to advance the rule of law worldwide. . . Effective rule of law reduces corruption, combats poverty and disease, and protects people from injustices large and small. It is the foundation for communities of justice, opportunity, and peace—underpinning development, accountable government, and respect for fundamental rights. . . Traditionally, the rule of law has been viewed as the domain of lawyers and judges. But everyday issues of safety, rights, justice, and governance affect us all; everyone is a stakeholder in the rule of law. . . [WJP has] an active and global network, and practical, locally led programs to advance the rule of law worldwide. Founded by William H. Neukom in 2006 as a presidential initiative of the American Bar Association (ABA) . . .World Justice Project . . . [is] an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization . . . Its offices are located in Washington DC, Seattle, Singapore, and Mexico City.” (emphasis ours)
A good resource, with lots of Scholarly Research Studies, Reports, and Articles (see below), but it started from a now very secular organization, the ABA (American Bar Association), which, in some sections, has shown increasing hostility and intolerance toward Christian attorneys in the last several decades. This ideology could taint WJP’s definitions of Justice, Rule of Law and Corruption in the future (but if so, and to what extent, is still unknown).
Instruments of Analysis: Some key pages are “What is the Rule of Law?,” featuring 4 “universal principles” (of “Accountability,” “Open Government,” “Just Law,” “Accessible & Impartial Justice”) and “The Rule of Law Index,” presenting 8 “factors” of analysis on discerning corruption. Together these serve as a helpful guide and tool for measuring a nation’s corruption; the Index uses actual surveys (not others’ perceptions). Scholarly Research Studies, Reports (w/ Articles, Guides, & Tools): A large assortment of these is in its “Publications” page, where one can find, “Annual Reports,” “Country Reports,” “Topical Reports,” “Rule of Law Index Reports,” “Research & Working Papers,” and “Policy Briefs” (a whole host of written resources, searchable by clear filters) Scholarly Journal Articles: See in “Publications,” and see Scholarly Research Studies (above). A couple of separate journal articles on corruption data (its measurement, etc.), and access to justice (externally published in other journals), are also made available here. Social Media (News): The Tweets from @TheWJP are a great way to keep up to date with current issues and incidents around the world, on a constant basis.
SCITTS are in this Subset for any of three main reasons, either: i) The SCITT had some fine and relevant resources, but seems no longer active or up to date in its work (archival); ii) It may display a strong, biblical Christian worldview in the issues it covers, but it may not be very international, i.e., markedly too American in its scope of work, or it has lengthy attendance requirements in the US for instance (which may make it impractical for many in our audience); and iii) it may actually be vague or cloudy in its commitment to a biblical Christian Worldview, or does not even have one (it’s “secular”), but it still has some value and utility to Christian advocates and groups. In the specific area of Corruption, we have included some of the latter (“secular”) kinds of entities above in Subset (2), and not here in (3), simply (and strangely) because so few Christian organizations (SCITTS) seem to exist on this issue. Last, some groups in this Subset may have a strong biblical Christian worldview, but they aim less at issues of law, justice, and government, and more at church leadership and general theological concerns (which is fine, but not so much our thrust, although we still see some value in viewing them).
DI’s goal is in its name: “Renewing Christian Wisdom for the Church,” and its vision is: “Retrieving the riches of classical Protestantism to renew and build up the contemporary church.” (quotes from its site). DI has five main activities, including revitalizing classical Protestant thinking and applying it to issues today, and residential as well as online study programs.
It’s a great site for Christian intellectuals seeking to know more about the classic works in Protestantism, and their impact in today’s culture, church, and world. Studies involve wide themes on classical Christian philosophy, theology, language and more. Sometimes, the information supplied includes subjects directly tied to political and government issues (like Natural Law and similar items), so we reference it on this site. In many cases, however, it does not (issues like ecclesiology, soteriology, and church seem emphasized). It’s DI’s interest in these absolutely foundational, yet wider-than-political theological themes, that informs our choice to place it here.
Scholarly Journals: Ad Fontes: (a quarterly journal sharing classic Protestant thinking on several subjects) Curriculum: Through “Davenant Hall,” DI offers all kinds of courses (some residential requirements may exist, and are reasonably priced). Books: A wide selection in its Bookstore, Davenant Press (including several revitalized classics that everyone should have) Podcasts: Ad Fontes (daily info., along subject lines of its same-named journal); Pilgrim Faith (a weekly podcast) Blog, News: Here, featuring frequent, short substantive items, and DI’s events and news.
Named after one of the USA’s founding fathers, John Jay. The Institute’s mission is “preparing principled leaders for public service.” They teach about American ideals and institutions in the context of the Christian faith, and offer two residential fellows training programs for that purpose (these are highly rated but six-month residential programs), with externships following.
Students finishing these programs are well-prepared. We locate this program in this spot because the fellows training program takes place in the US, although the truths taught certainly have universal and international value.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Public Theology, International Relations
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“Integrally Christian research at the highest levels across the disciplines oriented toward the question how then shall we live? is at the heart of KLC. KLC is home to individual scholars, Fellows in a variety of disciplines, doctoral students, and a significant network of scholars through our Scripture Collective and Research Collective.” (from its website)
This is a Christian “academic community” (often virtual or non-resident), consisting of scholars, fellows, others, focused on Christian scholarship and research “across the disciplines” This is their notion of Public Theology: Jesus in all areas of life. Its Research Collective (KRC), has a few “Hubs” touching on some relevant subjects of this Institute, such as “International Relations” and “Sustainability” (i.e., Sustainable Development). Most resources don’t touch so specifically on biblical perspectives of law, justice, and government, per se, but there is enough material here to land on some items in these areas from time to time.
Kirby Laing Centre Key Resources In General (in KLC’s words): “Among our various resources, both academic and accessible, is our [N]ewsletter Sibylline Leaves, our monthly Ethics in Conversation, our public lecture series Nuances in Public Theology, our blog Director and Friends, and our quarterly magazine The Big Picture (most useful as our pick).” (emphasis added) Podcast: “The KLC Podcast:” Christianity for the Everyday; also on Social Media (Facebook, etc.) Other: They have a Ph.D. Supervision program for avid learners in this academic community.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Culture & Society
The Kuyper Foundation is built on advancing the thinking of Christian Statesman, Abraham Kuyper. It “exists to promote a renaissance of Christian culture in society by furthering awareness of the implications of the Christian faith for every sphere of life, including the church, family and State.” The Foundation runs Christian Renaissance Media, which “seeks to promote this vision of Christian society by publishing literature, distributing audio-visual materials, and running lecture courses and conferences.” (quotes from its website).
Their resources include a Journal, Christianity & Society (through 2009), a Blog, several Books, and Videos/Lectures. The resources are mostly out of date (going up to about 2015) but are available in pdf or other formats, and feature mostly the writings of Stephen C. Perks of the UK. Some of these archived writings or lectures are worth checking out on Christian thinking on society.
General Christian Worldview Themes: Christian Theology of Law, and Law Practice
It’s an initiative of the Carver Project, in partnership with Notre Dame Law School (US). LVF is a strong 15 month program, focusing “on Christian formation and discipleship of early career attorneys.” The program is led by Christian law faculty and senior practitioners. Some work is done online, but some of the program must also be done in residence in St. Louis, MO (USA), or similar cities, as seven regional cohorts exist in the US, for part of the course.
While anyone taking this program is bound to get a great study of Law in the Christian Tradition, and how to practice in that, this course of study is mostly geared toward the American context, and requires taking some phases in the U.S., and over a longer time frame (15 mos.). Given those limitations, while still a great program, we have placed LVF in this Subset.
See a good list, clicking here (some are available on their site, or can be separately acquired)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Missions, Theology
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
Their motto is: “Connecting influencers and ideas for global mission, with . . . kingdom impact in every sphere of society.” It’s a global movement, and less so an organization, connecting influencers in three Spheres: Ideas, Geographic Regions, and Generations (ages). The Ideas Sphere is where one will find “Issues Networks” (28 different ones), each with its own “Resources” and “Connections,” and some of which intersect with our own Institute’s interests (see below). Lausanne also has several exciting global convocations and gatherings, often on a particular theme, with many video recordings (see its site). It is also known for generating some key evangelical documents for today’s Church (sorts of “confessions,” or “creeds”): This includes the Lausanne Covenant (1974); The Manila Manifesto (1989); and The Cape Town Commitment (2010) (all on its “Missional Content” page, below)
LM’s article topics can be very broad (given its highly-global-missional focus), so we have placed this important group here. That said, several articles that do intersect with our Institute’s interests can be scoured from their vast topics. In addition, their many evangelistic, missions articles, on certain geographic regions and countries, can provide great background and context for our Institute’s work.
Available on its “Missional Content” tab, where you can find everything. Here you have the 28 Issue Networks, some intersecting with our Institute’s interests. Each Issues Network has its own resources to share (interesting kinds, with infographics, videos, and contact information). Specifically, see the Issue Networks for: “Freedom & Justice;” “Integrity & Anti-corruption;” “Children-at-Risk;” “Creation Care” (i.e., Sustainable Development); and “Health for all Nations” (aligns with Health Justice)
Scholarly Journals, Articles: 3 sets of varieties are featured:
(I) Lausanne Global Analysis: It sometimes includes several fine articles on law, government, justice and on specific social issues of interest; e.g., Separation of Church and State, Economic Development, Governmental Authority, and so on; 40 years of content in this academic-styled journal, with a very searchable format;
(II) Lausanne Occasional Papers (LOP): This is a series of Research Papers (about 100 and growing) on similar topics, including church, missions, religious liberty and so on; in general, these are longer articles (most with citations);
(III) News & Stories (Blog): Despite its name, this is a collection of short Articles, Blogs, comments (thought pieces), on topics of missions, sometimes including also areas of interest to Isaiah Justice Institute; in general, good reading, and mostly shorter articles (several pieces also have separate citations to authority).
Videos, Curriculum (Classes): Video and teaching episodes in the “Lausanne Global Classroom” (some relevant topics; e.g., Integrity and Corruption, etc.); see also Videos of teaching sessions from Conferences (seems a lot of focus here is on workplace issues)
Other: Daily Devotional Plan (available also on the YouVersion Bible app); “Praying for the World” (an ongoing prayer ministry)
General Christian Worldview Themes: Culture
Specific Worldview in 10 Advocacy Interests:
“We work to defend marriage and the faith communities that sustain it at the local, state, and national levels. We do this by working with legislators, by informing voters when they head to the ballot box, and by giving marriage a voice in courts of law as well as in the court of public opinion. . . The NOM Education Fund’s mission is to conduct research, public education, and strategic projects that promote an understanding of marriage as the union of one man and one woman.” (from its website).
While acting on several fronts, including petitions for advocacy, most of the material here seems out of date with the last blogs around June 2021; the Advocacy Center is not showing active. This organization gave rise to the IOF, above (same leadership with Brian Brown), and may no longer be very active; it was largely US focused; it has some good same-sex marriage studies.
NOM Key Resources Blogs, Articles, and Stories mostly (a bit dated); and some scientific Research Briefs.
Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan think tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world.
If you are interested in survey information, specifically Research Studies, Reports, and data-driven Articles in this area, gauging religious practices and views on hot social issues, this is a great site to check. Coverage includes US data, issues and views, but includes many international viewpoints and surveys on those same issues as well (i.e., same-sex-marriage, race issues, life issues, and many more).
See the main page, above (it’s all highly accessible in short report formats)