Remembering Charlie Kirk: Pick Up the Torch: Why Christians Must Engage Culture with Courage and Truth
By Elizabeth Greene, Founder of The Cornerstone Project
America and I dare say the world encountered a turning point on September 10 with the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point, USA. The shot heard round the world serves as a wakeup call to the church to be Charlie Kirk; in other words, to be a believer who engages the culture with the truth of Christ.
Christ Followers Don’t “Just Stick with the Bible” — We Let It Shape Everything
For too long, many Christians have said, “We don’t talk about politics. We just stick with the Bible.” But that posture isn’t biblical. Scripture doesn’t compartmentalize our lives — it transforms them. Romans 12:2 calls us to be “transformed by the renewing of our minds,” not conformed to the cultural patterns around us. That’s the essence of a Biblical worldview: one that impacts every area of life — from family and identity to economics, politics, and morality. Every person operates from a worldview. The question is whether it’s shaped by Scripture or culture.
Truth Isn’t Political — But Politics Has Become Religious
Critics exhort Christians to stay in their lane of faith and away from the lane of politics. They are getting too political they say. But the church hasn’t suddenly become more political. Instead, politics has intruded into moral and spiritual territory. Questions about life, marriage, gender, and identity are deeply theological issues, and a Biblical worldview will clash with a modern secular humanistic perspective.
Believers’ silence or lack of engagement on these matters has been the enemy’s victory. The church has been conned into staying silent for too long. When we love the praise of people more than the praise of God, we retreat instead of stand (John 12:42–43). But people like Charlie didn’t retreat. Charlie loved the praise of God more than men.
A Life Worth Emulating: The Example of Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk boldly lived out a biblical worldview in public spaces — college campuses, media, and other events. He didn’t just share his opinions; he gave reasoned, respectful defenses for his hope in Christ (1 Peter 3:15). He did it with clarity, logic, respect, and courage. He welcomed people of opposing viewpoints inviting them to debate him in an exchange of ideas. He thanked them for engaging.
He modeled I Timothy 4:7–8 — setting an example in speech, conduct, and faith. Friends testify that what he proclaimed in public, he practiced in private. He loved his wife and children, championed godly marriage, and prioritized faith, family, and country. He didn't run from difficult conversations — he prepared for them. His life stands as a challenge to us all: will we be as ready, as grounded, as bold?
He embodied 1 Peter 3:15.” but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”
He analyzed issues from his biblical worldview. He educated himself on many topics so that he was prepared to engage the culture with the power of Christ. He developed the knowledge and skill lacking in many believers today to articulate how and why his faith informed his worldview. He didn't back away from the conversation because he was prepared for it. What a challenging example for the church today.
The Mantle Now Passes to Us
Now the mantle passes to us. It really belonged to us all along. But we must be compelled to pick up the job where he left off, to know the truth of God’s word, to live the truth, and to share the truth in winsome ways with a culture desperate for meaning and purpose. We carry the answer: Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). We cannot hide. Christians are called into the public square — into schools, boardrooms, churches, and dinner tables — to correct error with truth, and to live lives that shine Christ into the darkness.
Where Do We Begin? With the Family.
If you have a family, the time to lead is now. Get rooted in God’s Word. Join a local church that teaches and disciples. Gather with other believers to study Scripture in small groups. Model Christ in your home. And if you’re a father, embrace the privilege of spiritual leadership. Charlie recognized that this generation is crying out for structure — and Scripture is the most beautiful, life-giving structure ever given to humanity.
It is the greatest, rescue story ever told…of a God who loves wayward rebellious people enough to give his life to buy their freedom from sin and death for a glorious eternity in His loving presence. God saves us and then invites us to live our purpose within the greatest story ever told (Eph 2:8-10).
Need a Starting Point?
If you’re unsure where to begin, The Cornerstone Project exists to help. It’s a 24-week biblical worldview curriculum designed for families, co-ops, and church groups. It equips parents to disciple their kids. It’s simple, practical, and transformative. Invite a few families, engage in dialogue, learn in community. Be courageous. Be prepared. Be Charlie. The world is hungry and waiting (Matt 9:37).
What Legacy Will You Leave?
When the day arrives that God calls you home, how do you want to be remembered by your family, friends, colleagues, or community? Charlie responded, “I want to be remembered for courage for my faith. The most important thing is my faith.”
What about you? This question is one of the most important that you will ever answer. In the Old Testament, Joshua left a parting message for the people of Israel at the end of his life. He reminded the people of their history, identity, and calling. He challenged them with a question, “Who will you live for?” (Joshua 24:15). He answered for himself saying that he and his family, would live for the LORD.
Moms and Dads, life is short. Kids grow up quickly. The time is now. Let’s step into the calling God has for us to be salt and light. To a decaying and dark world, the only answer is Jesus. So, let’s join Joshua, Charlie and so many others both past and present that have declared, “We will live for Jesus.” This is the greatest commission of your life: Pick up your torch and go be the light!
Hi, I’m Elizabeth
A mom and Christian educator passionate about helping families build a biblical foundation that lasts. I created The Cornerstone Project to give parents tools to disciple their kids with confidence, truth, and grace. Here on the blog, I share encouragement, practical tips, and real-life stories to support you as you lead your family in faith.
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