US Vice President JD Vance and former Conservative MP Rory Stewart have become the centre of a heated social media dispute over Christian teachings and moral duties.

The feud began when during an interview Vance proposed a “hierarchy of responsibilities” rooted in Christian values, prioritising love for family, followed by neighbours, community, fellow citizens, and then the wider world.

Stewart, a Christian himself, quickly dismissed Vance’s stance, calling it "less Christian and more pagan tribal." He also criticised politicians who claim theological authority, saying: “We should start worrying when politicians become theologians, assume to speak for Jesus, and tell us in which order to love…”

Vance then hit back, urging Stewart to research the concept of "ordo amoris" and questioning if he truly believed all obligations were equal, pointing out that duties to one's children are different from those to distant strangers.

The exchange intensified when Vance mocked Stewart’s intelligence: "Rory thinks he has an IQ of 130 when it’s actually 110."

Stewart then responded, accusing Vance of misrepresenting Christian teachings and reiterating the inclusive message of the Good Samaritan.

“An honour to have my IQ questioned by you Mr VP. But your attempts to speak for Christ are false and dangerous. Nowhere does Jesus suggest that love is to be prioritized in concentric circles. His love is universal,” he said, starting a thread on Christianity and its message of equality.

Public opinion has largely favoured Stewart, with many applauding his theological response. However, critics argue that Stewart is using the debate to promote his own ‘anti-Trump’ agenda.