I've heard Campolo speak--some 20 years ago, and I agree, very though provoking, reminds one of a kind of kooky but very skilled college professor, though thought provoking doesn't make his views true.
I don't doubt he's done some great things for the poor in what, the DR? It's a great story, but needs some confirmation. Assuming its the whole story, that also doesn't make his views true.
Campolo is though, a part of what can be called the (tiny) evangelical left. Very much of a socialist....out of his concern for the poor, hence he goes democrat (somehow his pro-life views take a back seat then I guess). He was duped by Clinton, much the same way Billy Graham was duped by Nixon....
There's a group called the Sojourners which share the same views as Campolo...pacifist socialists, who still call themselves Christians (and even evangelical). If you want thought provoking (but wacked) view of what they are like check out a Sojourners magazine at a library.... I went to college with a few professors like that, actually. I can guarantee you Sojourners magazine is almost all left wing social concerns, without any mention of presonal faith in Jesus Christ.
His wife (I think he was widowed, and this is his 2nd wife, but I'm not sure) is very "pro-choice" an almost unheard of position for a self-identified evangelical. Tony remains pro-life (supposedly) and they both have done speaking tours where they explain their opposing positions.
It appears to me that through the years Campolo has moved left....religiously and of course politically too. I believe he thinks homosexuality is unchangeable so Christians should just accept it---NOT at all a biblical view either.
Campolo today is a good example of why the word "evangelical" is fast losing its meaning.
Am not at all in favor of Sojourners. Am quite familiar with it and think it's mostly hideous.
Haven't kept up with Tony much the last 6-8 years. He may have moved left, for all I know.
I still feel, in terms of his good works--for whatever they are worth in God's eyes--which--to me--would likely be considerably something--I think honor to whom honor is due is a fitting response.
I'm not happy with his views on homosexuality and a list of other political issues.
But I still don't have trouble considering him a genuine Christian brother who sacrificially and servant heartedly lives out more of a Christian valued life than many pastors I know. That counts for something with me. And, I suspect it does, with God, too.
Thanks for your thoughtful response.