Pastor Shares How He Inspired Charlie Kirk’s Final Book on the Sabbath
In Washington, Pastor David Engelhart from King’s Church in New York City reflects on his conversations with Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, regarding the importance of observing the Sabbath.
The two met for lunch in the summer of 2021, where Kirk appeared worn out from a demanding schedule. Engelhart recalled, “Charlie mentioned he was under a lot of pressure and struggling to sleep. I suggested he start keeping the Sabbath, dedicating 24 hours to rest and connection with God and family.” Their discussion got a bit heated, but a few months later, Kirk told Engelhart he had fully embraced the idea.
Kirk’s final book, titled “In God’s Name, Quit: Why Respecting the Sabbath Will Change Your Life,” was released recently and quickly became a bestseller. Engelhart expressed his admiration for Kirk’s discipline in maintaining Sabbath practices.
“From my perspective, this is his best work yet,” he remarked. “I didn’t anticipate such depth, but it truly is profound. I think he would have been quite proud.” Engelhart mentioned that they talked while Kirk was still drafting the manuscript, and Kirk was genuinely excited about it. “I believe this serves as a fitting tribute to his life,” he noted.
About their Sabbath observance, both practiced from Friday to Saturday. Before his passing, Kirk discussed how his conversations with Engelhart influenced his book. He admitted that he struggled with the theological rationale at first, saying, “Honestly, my argument wasn’t very strong. Engelhardt posed challenges I couldn’t effectively respond to.” Kirk highlighted his initial belief that practicing Sabbath wasn’t feasible, given his responsibilities like raising substantial funds, managing multiple companies, and hosting a daily show. “I thought I honored God by working harder, without taking time off,” he stated.
However, he eventually revisited the Biblical teachings on the Sabbath. Engelhart emphasized that the essence of Sabbath involves refraining from stressful or taxing activities, though “fun and creative projects” are permissible. He pointed out that for Christians, honoring the Sabbath reflects one’s faith in God. For non-Christians, he noted our natural need for rest in the cycles of life.
Engelhart met Charlie Kirk’s wife, Erica, in 2019 in New York. Their connection began after Erica heard Engelhart express his views on the Black Lives Matter protests that emerged following George Floyd’s death. They formed an immediate bond. Erica is currently on a media tour to promote Charlie’s last book.
