Jacob Hill, WA State Director of Australian Christian Lobby, described the recent tragedy involving Charlie Kirk as a turning point: “It was almost like the catalyst where people had to decide, is this what we want?”
He noted how polarisation in the U.S. had already shaped Australia’s political climate. Now, Kirk’s death was emboldening people. “If we can’t have a civil conversation without violence, there’s a big problem here,” Jacob said.
Emboldened, Not Silenced
Acts of violence are meant to silence. But Jacob argued the opposite is happening: “You poked the bear almost, and it wakes up the giant.” Rather than shrinking back, many are choosing to speak their truth with love and wisdom. Jacob stressed that intimidation should not deter people from sharing faith: “I’m not going to shrink back.”
Forgiveness and Worldviews
So, how should the church respond? Hill’s answer was simple but profound: “Father, forgive them. They don’t know what they’re doing.” He explained that Christians must forgive while also recognising worldview clashes. “Our message is being misconstrued intentionally or through ignorance,” he said. Despite misinterpretations, he sees Christians growing more confident in sharing their perspective.
Everyday Evangelism
Jacob admitted he isn’t naturally evangelistic. “I speak on the radio, but in everyday life, I don’t often share my faith,” he said. Yet, he sees an opportunity to learn from Kirk’s approach, which involves asking questions, inviting dialogue, and relying on Scripture. “Charlie Kirk was a genius. But even he often said, ‘This is just what the Bible says. This is how I choose to live.’”
Freedom of Speech and Fear of Rejection
Jacob highlighted a cultural challenge: the fear of being “canceled.” He explained, “The fear of cancellation is number one… more intimidating than a gun pointed at us.” The biggest barrier, he believes, is not laws but fear of rejection. Restoring open dialogue requires courage to speak, even when misunderstood.
Australia’s Post-Christian Reality
Jacob contrasted the U.S. and Australia. In America, faith remains deeply woven into the culture. In Australia, he argued, “We’re not in the post-Christian era. We’re in the post-post-Christian era.” That shift leaves many unfamiliar with Christian principles. For Jacob, this means sharing personal testimony matters more than theological debates: “If you know enough to change your life, you know enough to help somebody else.”
Truth and Grace in Conversation
Quoting Proverbs 22:11, Jacob reflected: “The person who loves truth and speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.”
For him, conversations aren’t about winning arguments. They’re about truth and kindness. “Say what you’ve got to say, say it nicely,” he advised. “You might walk away disagreeing, but you’ll walk away respecting each other.”
Jacob ended with a reminder: “We’re not alone. When we speak God’s truth, the Holy Spirit is backing us.” Charlie Kirk’s legacy, then, isn’t silence; it’s boldness. And for Jacob Hill, that means speaking truth with grace, no matter the cost.
Listen to Jacob’s full conversation with Tim on Table Talk below.