I’ll give it a go
1) he actively avoids questions about God or Christ’s divinity. but I find his psychology of the Bible fascinating, as he deeply agrees with all the moral lessons of Bible stories, although in a very different light. A recent podcast interview with Bishop Robert Barron is an example of this
2/3) I agree with your comment that he seems to apply acceptance of existing hierarchy as a “conservative” trait. I understand the point he is trying to make but agree that he’s wrong if he applies to modern conservatives.
I agree wholeheartedly with your #2 view. Having lived in a communist country, communists, socialists, anarchists, etc., also organize themselves into hierarchies.
The difference is that in capitalism, people just want enough to make themselves “happy”, however they define that. Almost all would include “LIBERTY-FREEDOM” as one of the top defining traits of a good society.
In communism and socialism, everyone knows there is a “top” and think that if they tow the line, they will be included at the top. Experience has proven, whether in Nazi Germany or Stalinist Russia (Read “The Gulag Archipelago”), that most people are not at the top and even those at the top are subject to the whims of the minute small number at the top. You are never safe in a socialist society, no matter how devote you are to the cause. Homosexuals and minorities are among the first to be eliminated. Not recognizing this truth is willful ignorance.
In socialism, your fate is determined by others, no matter how high up you become. In capitalism, your fate is decided by yourself, so long as you produce what others seek.