How American Theology Broke the Middle East - Nathan Perrin

Nathan Perrin, peace activist and co-chair of Community Peacemaker Teams’ steering committee, is on Christianity Without Compromise (formerly Theology Meets World) with host Jake Doberenz to expose the overlooked connections between Western Christian theology and Middle East injustice. In this episode, Nathan shares the gripping story of how a cross riddled with bullet holes in an Assyrian village changed his faith—and how Christians today can rediscover the call to peacemaking. Drawing on his experience working with Kurdish, Arab, and Assyrian communities, he challenges Western Christians to confront harmful eschatology, racial bias, and political apathy that contribute to real-world violence. With practical guidance and raw honesty, Nathan invites believers to trade theological detachment for embodied solidarity.Key Takeaways:Western theology has contributed to violence in the Middle East. Bad eschatology and Christian nationalism have shaped unjust policies—and still shape public opinion.Proximity leads to empathy. Don’t start with theories—start by knowing and learning from your local Middle Eastern neighbors.Interfaith work reveals God’s heart. True Christian witness in interfaith spaces isn’t about dominance—it’s about presence, listening, and love.Important Links:Community Peacemaker TeamsMennonite ActionSuper Jake and the Fashion PoliceMemories of Green RiversRinyo Inc.Think of Others by Mahmoud DarwishNathan Perrin is an Anabaptist-Quaker pastor, multi-genre writer, and soon-to-be graduated doctoral student residing in Chicagoland. He holds a Master's in Theology with an emphasis in Quaker Studies, and his doctoral work is in Christian Community Development. He is also a screenwriter contracted with Rinyo Studios, and he enjoys exploring Middle Eastern cultures. Additionally, je boards the Nobel Peace Prize-nominated Community Peacemaker Teams, as well as helps in local efforts with the community development work and working with local reps. Learn more at his website.Follow this show and Jake’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.