When Empathy Becomes Sinful
When Empathy Becomes Sinful  
Podcast: The Remnant Radio's Podcast
Published On: Wed Jul 16 2025
Description: Is it possible for our greatest Christian virtues to become our deadliest vices? Dr. Joe Rigney reveals how untethered empathy threatens to undermine biblical truth and transform compassion into a weapon of manipulation.In this episode of Remnant Radio, Dr. Rigney tackles the controversial intersection of emotions and truth in Christian culture from his new book, The Sin of Empathy: Compassion and Its Counterfeits. From Nazi Germany to modern church leadership, discover why good intentions without biblical boundaries lead to devastating consequences.Join Joshua Lewis and Michael Miller as they explore: • The distinction between biblical compassion and destructive empathy • How empathy without boundaries leads to tribalism • Why good men struggle with women’s displeasure • The connection between empathy and church liberalization • Real-world examples from immigration to abuse ministryDr. Rigney, fellow of theology at New Saint Andrews College and pastor at Christ Church, provides a biblical framework for maintaining both compassion and conviction in an age of emotional manipulation.0:00 Introduction: The Sin of Empathy2:34 The Inspiration for “The Sin of Empathy” & Initial Reactions6:10 Empathy, Sympathy, & Compassion Defined: Navigating the Nuances16:44 Cultural Manipulations21:19 When Feelings Replace God: The Idolatry of Empathy37:04 The Blindspots of Empathy41:30 Empathy Leads to Tribalism50:23 Compassion + Truth VS Untethered Empathy1:00:17 Final ThoughtsABOUT THE GUEST:BOOK https://a.co/d/8anJpvCSubscribe to The Remnant Radio newsletter and receive our FREE introduction to spiritual gifts eBook. Plus, get access to: discounts, news about upcoming shows, courses and conferences - and more. Subscribe now at TheRemnantRadio.com. Support the showABOUT THE REMNANT RADIO: The Remnant Radio exists to equip believers who are hungry for the radical middle of both Word and Spirit. Subscribe for twice-weekly content on theology, church history and the gifts of the Spirit.📧 SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER 📚 COURSES & CONFERENCES 🛒 SHOP MERCH 💝 SUPPORT OUR MINISTRY: • Leave a Tip• Become a Patron• Make a Tax-Deductible Donation  🌐📧 Check Out Our Church PagesJosh's ChurchMiller's ChurchRowntree's Church