During times of societal change, crisis, uncertainty, and fear, conspiracy theories flourish. False conspiracy theories do great harm to society by stoking hatred, fear, and violence. When embraced and spread by Christians, they divide congregations and discredit the witness of the church in the broader community. At its worst, the eagerness to embrace conspiracy theories can be an alternative to the Christian faith and way of life.

Conspiracy theories gain some of their appeal by offering a false and lesser version of what the Gospel offers. For this reason, wise pastoring toward a robust embrace of the tenets of the reformed faith may be a powerful antidote to the conspiratorial mindset.