Why Do Christians Fall for Conspiracy Theories? - Jared Stacy

Dr. Jared Stacy, a seasoned pastor and PhD researcher on conspiratorial thinking, joins host Jake Doberenz on Christianity Without Compromise (formerly Theology Meets World) to explore how conspiracy theories—past and present—have shaped American evangelicalism and Christianity at large. Jared unpacks the structure of conspiratorial narratives: hidden actors, hostile intent, and a sense of holy struggle. Drawing parallels from slavery-era fear to QAnon’s modern mimicry of Christian language, he shows why Christians must cultivate empathy, humility, and discernment amid the “information warfare” flooding our screens. The conversation answers questions like: How can believers remain faithful amidst today's conspiratorial culture? and Why do conspiracy theories mix so readily with Christian faith?Key Takeaways:A solid definition matters: Conspiracy theories center on hidden actors with hostile intent in a “holy struggle”—not simple plausible explanations or distrust in institutions.Christianity has been co-opted to justify fear and exclusion: From early evangelical defenses of slavery to modern nationalism, conspiratorial thinking has repeatedly shaped theology to reinforce social power structures.The cure is humble discipleship, not more data: In an era of information warfare, Christians must practice epistemic humility, listen deeply, and ground themselves in the story of Jesus rather than haste for answers.Important Links:Spies, Lies, and Algorithms: The History and Future of American Intelligence by Amy B. ZegartBiblical ABCs: The Basics of Christian Resistance by K.H. Miskotte“An Alternative to the Bonhoeffer Option” by Jared Stacy, Christianity TodayThe Quiet Damage: QAnon and the Destruction of the American Family by Jesselyn CookInstagram: @jaredmstacyTwitter/X: @jaredstacySubstack: Jared Stacy, PhDJared Stacy is a theologian and ethicist and former pastor to evangelical churches in New Orleans and the DC Metro Area. He received a PhD in moral & practical theology from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. His research focuses on the intersection of theology and politics, specifically on ethics, extremism/conspiracy theory and US evangelicalism. Jared’s work & story has been featured on platforms like TIME, NPR, NBC News, the BBC, and Christianity Today.Follow this show and Jake’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.