‘Christ For President: God’s Gospel and Human Politics’ - Daniel Montgomery from Sojourn Community Church on Vimeo. Last week I posted part one of Sojourn Church’s two-part series on a Christian theology of politics and government, taught by Pastor Daniel in our home, The 930 Art Center of Louisville, Kentucky. Now, you can click the player and view the conclusion of this “Christ For President” series.
Here are sermon notes and discussion questions from another of our pastor/elder’s, Chad Lewis (also the singer-songwriter from our Fading Grass CD):
Sermon Recap:
We hear a lot about people being tired of political talk. And it’s no wonder. The war of words between political pundits on the right and on the left is harsh. Ultimately, what we want to communicate, even while doing politics, is that politics, political parties and politicians are not the main issue on this earth. It’s most definitely not the first thing we’re about in the church. The first thing we’re seeking, the first thing we’re about in church is the Kingdom of God-knowing God the Creator is the main issue, as well as being restored to friendship with God and honoring and giving glory to God in all that we believe and say and do. That’s what we, as the church, need to constantly be calling people toward.
Read Romans 13:1-14.
Note: Once again, let’s be reminded: We are family.
* Describe what would it be like (or look like) to have believers sit together and have differing views on many non-essentials while knowing that it is a safe place where you can come together the next week and be accepted.
* Has anything from last week’s sermon stirred anything in you - good or bad?
We get off track when we elevate something to ultimate status. This is reserved for God alone.
* How can it become easy for many to elevate politics or politicians to ultimate status?
* How can our beliefs and ideas concerning politics become a means to gratifying our sinful flesh - that is, how can this lead us to sinning against each other?
I. DO SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD. (MATTHEW 6:33; JOHN 18:36).
DON’T EQUATE THE BIBLICAL KINGDOM OF GOD WITH ANY (a) HUMAN POLITICAL PARTY (b) NATION.
* How do you react to the following statement: Jesus is not for or endorsing any political party.
* In the Scriptures, we see it is a huge deal to misuse God’s Name. How do both major political parties misuse the Name of God and how can we fall into this trap as well?
II. DO LOOK TO CHRIST ALONE AS SAVIOR
DON’T ELEVATE ANY POLITICIAN TO SAVIOR (I PETER 3:15, PSALM 146:3; JEREMIAH 17:5; ROMANS 14:9)
III. DO PRAY.
Don’t pray selectively.
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness (I TIMOTHY 2:1-2).
* What can you pray for elected officials? (See Piper quote below for additional things.)
“We pray, Lord, that our leader would have a humble demeanor and be open to truth, that he would be granted wisdom beyond his native capacities, and that he would make no snap judgments or knee-jerk reactions but take all factors into account. We pray that policies, procedures and laws would be put in place that would not hinder the gospel but give free reign to its spread.” by John Piper in How can Christians have a positive influence on American politics?
IV. DO STAY UNITED IN CHRIST.
DON’t divide the family of God into political tribes. (ROMANS 16:17; COLOSSIANS 3:1-8).
* There are many things that are not clear. What things are clear concerning the gospel that we can have unity on? Take time to rehearse many of the essential truths of the gospel.
Take time to ask yourself the following questions this week and share the results with others.
(1) Do I criticize and condemn others in my political talk without looking at my own heart? (2) Do I demonize politicians, political parties and policies I oppose? (3) Am I quick to confront others in my political talk? (4) Is there rudeness, harshness, bitterness or a rush of hateful words in my political talk?
In our political talk we must speak to build understanding and not to destroy or simply win arguments. (1) Seek common ground and (2) Learn how to ask questions.
* How can these two steps be helpful in having grace-filled and honest conversations about tough subjects?
V. DO LIVE A LIFESTYLE OF REPENTANCE, FORGIVENESS AND LOVE.
DON’t forfeit your faith in your political walk and talk. (LUKE 18:10-13; ROMANS 13:13-14).
* How can seeing our brokenness and sinfulness be a healthy reminder when about politics?
* Some Christians are too immersed in politics. Some Christians run from any knowledge of politics. How are neither of these options good?
