There’s no denying that many of the rioters at the Capitol were acting in the name of Christianity. Many carried crosses and flags with Christian symbols on them. They were seen visibly praying. They have said in interviews since the attack that they were acting in the name of Jesus. They’re also on record as being regular members of their churches.

Of course, the fact that many were acting violently is not a good look for Christianity.

So author Michael Brown is determined to distance himself from them as much as possible. It’s not a new tactic for him; a month ago, he was insisting white evangelicals weren’t promoting white nationalism.