As stated in the book, “it is easy to assume that society is divided into “us-versus-them” forces. The reality is much less clear-cut.” (page 160) Also, “the sobering conclusion is that political attitudes and perspectives, when expressed in an unChristian manner, create unintended spiritual barriers between people and Christ.” (page 167) How can Christians express their views on political and social issues without ‘dividing’ and ‘creating’?
Respond to the statements on pages 174-175 “Our congregation does not need another political opinion. They need spiritual revelation. Our primary role as spiritual leaders is not making people see eye to eye. It is making sure our eyes are focused on Jesus.”
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Steve, I agree with the statement that our response to politics "create unintended spiritual barriers to people and Christ." By the way I believe that is true among both believers and unbelievers.
I also agree that with the statement on page 174-175. I find it interesting that Paul's comments in Romans 13 instruct us to, "let every soul be subject to the governing authorities..." This when Nero was the leader of the government and was as ruthless a leader as we have seen.
There are enough barriers to the gospel without us adding artificial barriers of our own.
i think the key is found in us being political in unCHRISTian manners. following the way of JESUS is going to effect our politics and there will be times in doing the deeds of CHRIST that we will have to use politics to accomplish them. i believe the problem is when we just become pawns of certain political parties rather than people whose faith is leading them in the political discussion.
case in point, from my discussions with those not in the CHRISTian subculture i think they have a hard time with most evangelicals stance on abortion when they see those same evangelicals fighting against taking care of the poor and fighting for the death penalty. to my unCHRISTian friends this seems to smack of people who are just trying to put GOD into a political party rather than people who are hoping to transform the world through the power of the GOD they (we) believe in.
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