September 14, 2025

It’s hard to know exactly what to call Charlie Kirk. Was he an influencer? A political pundit? A preacher? A debater? Certainly, a husband and father. I didn’t agree with everything that Charlie Kirk said, in fact I was watching his content in preparation for a reaction article and series of videos where I was planning to disagree with some of his misses related to scripture. I must admit I would be terrified to voice some of my disagreements face to face. 

In the many hours of listening to Charlie discuss and debate I was constantly impressed with the grace and respect he showed. There were many people he spoke to who said things which were highly inflammatory. Charlie would never respond in kind at most he would dismiss those who were not willing to have a cordial conversation. 

I am writing this because on a personal note I feel some indebtedness to Charlie Kirk. My oldest son 15 discovered Charlie Kirk a year or two ago. He was very taken with his approach and ability to discuss difficult matters. Largely because of watching Charlie my son developed and interest in Christian apologetics and has spent hours reading and researching matters related to the evidence for Jesus and the Bible. He has learned to think deeply and critically about many issues. Hardly a day goes by that he and I and often the rest of the family don’t end up in a detailed theological, philosophical, or political discussion. Whatever my son goes on to do in life I have seen a fire for truth and reason develop in him and the spark was Charlie Kirk. 

We live in a world where people often avoid difficult conversations, where we are told that religion and politics are not polite conversation. Charlie Kirk showed us that meaningful dialogue on these matters is both critical and possible. Charlie was not soft or mealymouthed, but he was respectful. He didn’t hide his mistakes he posted full videos warts and all. He would often relent when he knew his partner had a point. These are all lessons that we can learn from. 

My prayers go out to Charlie Kirks family and friends and the organization he started Turning Point USA. I pray that others will take up the mantel of open respectful discussion. I pray that Christians will learn that discussion is powerful and should not be avoided even when there is risk involved. 

I was listening to friends speak about Charlie the day he died. Cabot Phillips stood out. He described one of his first speaking engagements. He said he was backstage with Charlie expressing his trepidation. Charlie encouraged him saying “If you tell the truth you don’t need to be afraid.”  Encouragement we all need to hear. 

~ Kevin Cleary