For more than fifty years, Joel has studied, taught, and discussed the intersection of faith and public life. He holds a B.S., M.A., and M.B.A. and has served as a Bible teacher, worship leader, church planter, and pastor. Drawing from personal experience, historical research, and a lifetime of church engagement, his work explores the ascent of the Christian Right and Christian Nationalism and their sway over American culture and politics.

Townsend wrote Sects & Politics after growing weary of watching complex issues reduced to antagonistic sound bites and slogans. He is of the opinion that healing the fractures requires more than just anger, and that enduring fixes start with open communication. He lives in Tennessee with his wife, Linda, and Ellie the Wonder Dog.