Russell Moore, currently serving as the editor-in-chief of Christianity Today, has been a prominent figure in evangelical circles, known for his theological insights and cultural commentary. However, his tenure has not been without controversy, particularly concerning his engagement with political issues, critiques from fellow evangelicals, his evolving stance on gender roles and LGBTQ+ issues, and the acceptance of government funding. While Moore was once regarded as a defender of conservative evangelical theology, his increasing alignment with progressive political narratives and cultural accommodation has led many confessional believers to question his commitment to biblical orthodoxy.
Overemphasis on Politics & Cultural Accommodation
Critics argue that Moore places undue emphasis on political matters, potentially overshadowing core gospel messages. His public disagreements with political figures and policies, particularly his frequent sharp rebukes of conservative evangelicals, have led some to question whether his focus has shifted from spiritual leadership to political activism. While Christian leaders should never compromise their integrity for political expediency, Moore’s disproportionate criticism of conservative evangelicals, while largely silent on the sins of progressive movements, suggests a one-sided approach rather than a truly biblical critique of political engagement.
Additionally, many believe Moore has sought cultural approval from secular media outlets rather than remaining firmly rooted in biblical authority. His frequent appearances in mainstream media and willingness to align with left-leaning social policies raise concerns that he prioritizes public reputation over scriptural faithfulness. As Paul warns, “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10).
Softening on Gender Roles & Complementarianism
Although Moore has traditionally held a complementarian position, advocating for male leadership in the church and home, he has in recent years softened his stance in ways that raise concerns. His promotion of women preachers like Beth Moore, who has openly defied biblical gender roles, signals a drift toward egalitarianism. While he has not outright endorsed female pastors, his lack of clarity and failure to uphold biblical teaching on this issue has emboldened those who seek to dismantle the biblical pattern of male headship in the church (1 Timothy 2:12-14).
This shift mirrors a broader trend within mainstream evangelicalism, where cultural pressure to normalize egalitarianism has led many leaders to compromise on scriptural gender roles. The Bible is clear that pastoral leadership is to be exercised by qualified men, and Moore’s platforming of those who reject this teaching has only served to muddy the waters rather than uphold biblical distinctives.
Ambiguity on LGBTQ+ Issues
One of the most serious concerns surrounding Moore is his lack of clarity and firm opposition to the growing LGBTQ+ influence within evangelical circles. His silence or vague responses regarding the Revoice Conference—which promotes the idea of “gay Christianity” and encourages believers to identify as LGBTQ+ while remaining celibate—has alarmed many confessional believers.
While Christians should treat all people with dignity and compassion, Scripture does not permit Christians to retain an LGBTQ+ identity (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). True repentance and transformation are at the heart of biblical conversion, yet Moore has avoided direct confrontation on this issue, preferring a more culturally sensitive approach that leaves room for compromise with progressive ideology.
This unwillingness to boldly confront sin contradicts the biblical mandate to "preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2). By failing to clearly address this issue, Moore has contributed to the growing doctrinal confusion within evangelicalism regarding biblical sexuality.
Critiques from Megan Basham
Journalist Megan Basham has been particularly vocal in her critiques of Moore, arguing that he and other evangelical leaders have compromised biblical truth in favor of progressive ideologies. In her book Shepherds for Sale, she documents Moore’s shift toward secular liberalism, alleging that he prioritizes cultural acceptance over fidelity to biblical doctrine. Basham also contends that Moore’s associations with progressive evangelical circles and his public criticism of conservative Christians have positioned him as a leading voice in the drift away from historic, confessional Christianity.
Her concerns align with those of many within the Reformed and evangelical community who believe Moore has abandoned his once-strong stance on biblical authority in favor of a theology more palatable to the secular world.
Conclusion
While Russell Moore has contributed significantly to evangelical thought, these concerns underscore a pattern of theological drift and cultural accommodation. His overemphasis on political engagement, his softening stance on complementarianism and LGBTQ+ issues, his alignment with progressive evangelical voices, and his acceptance of government funding all raise serious red flags for those committed to confessional Christianity.
The Bible calls believers to test everything and hold fast to what is true (1 Thessalonians 5:21). While Moore remains influential, his increasing alignment with secular and progressive ideologies should serve as a warning to those seeking to uphold biblical orthodoxy. His trajectory reflects the broader trend of evangelical compromise, where the desire for cultural respectability often overrides the call to bold, uncompromising faithfulness to God’s Word.
Confessional believers must exercise discernment and remain rooted in Scripture, ensuring that their leaders stand firm in biblical truth rather than capitulating to worldly pressures. As Paul exhorts, "Guard the good deposit entrusted to you" (2 Timothy 1:14), lest we drift from the faith once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3).