The Modern Idol of Politics:

[Aquila]

Originally Posted by Scott Pitta

I know believers from both parties. I am politically neutral.

There should be no discussion of anything political at church. It should be a gathering without any political undertones.

I suggest politics has impacted churches more than churches have impacted politics.

Very astute observation.

[Aquila]

Originally Posted by Esaias

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
(Ephesians 3:9-11)

The church is responsible for informing the powers that be of the manifold wisdom of God. To suggest that the church should be "apolitical" or "politically neutral" is to deny the purpose of the church and is contrary to the very core of the Gospel.

And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
(Matthew 24:14)

The Gospel is the good news of THE KINGDOM. A Kingdom is a people and territory under the jurisdiction of a King, with Law and Authority. The Message to all nations is that there is a King Who is to be obeyed.

Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.
(Psalms 2:1-12)

I might have a rather unique perspective on this because my grandmother was Quaker. One thing we know is that the Quakers were VERY political, and have a rich history of confronting the political powers that be on issues of slavery, child labor, women's suffrage, etc.... yet many early Quakers still refused to "participate" in the system by voting, serving in the military, filing for marriage licensing, or allowing partisan politics to infect their congregations. Much of the modern notion of social justice embraced today was strongly influenced by the Quakers. They truly left a great impact on American culture... yet they were known for not voting, serving in the military, seeking marriage licensing, or offering sworn testimony in court. Many Quakers even refused to take their hats off in the court houses, and the courts acquiesced to these Quakers, knowing they'd never bow if the issue was made a big deal.

I don't believe we should be apolitical. We are called to be a prophetic voice to a lost and dying world. Christians should be openly condemning the social evils we see in today's world. We can condemn the evils of our society on street corners, in publication, in sermons, in media... and not participate in the system itself. There is absolutely no mandate to participate with the world's systems, ways, or processes. We are simply told to give due respect to authorities, obey human ordinances, live peaceably with all men, and to pay our taxes. And we are reminded that we are NOT of this world, and that we are to come out from among the people of the world and be separate.

[aegsm76]

Originally Posted by Aquila

Politics is increasingly dividing the church, families, and beloved brethren.

Could this be getting out of control? Democrat Christians argue you can't be a true Christian if you vote Republican. Republican Christians are arguing you can't be a true Christian and vote Democrat.

Could our politics be becoming our actual "religion"? Could politics be becoming an idolatrous thing among Christians?

Here are some thoughts to ponder:

Christian, you are free not to vote
https://youtu.be/8x2o5992tqg

Christians should not vote for either party
https://youtu.be/qa_DK6jnUZk

Three potential reasons Christians shouldn't vote.
https://youtu.be/qlreFERiOpg

A - thanks for the laugh this morning!
This was really good coming from you!

[Aquila]

Originally Posted by aegsm76

A - thanks for the laugh this morning!
This was really good coming from you!

Hey, even if it only provided a laugh, I hope it added to your day. lol

God bless!

[RachelRose]

Originally Posted by Esaias

The real "idol of politics" is this false heretical notion that politics is some sphere outside the jurisdiction of Christ. Too many have bought the lie that allows them to compartmentalize things, so that Jesus is Lord of grace before meals and music on Sunday, but not Lord of the voting booth or daily living. Much less Lord of the nation.

But He is King of kings, that is, He is the Supreme Authority over rulers and ALL power in heaven AND IN EARTH belongs to Him. Neither the devil nor Caesar care one whit where you think you're going when you die as long as you bow to their authority out in "the real world".

I do not think politics is outside of the realm of being Christian. Acts 26:32 -Agrippa said to Festus, "This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar."

If we are not to be involved with government or even law why did that happen.

Why care?

Why fight?

[Scott Pitta]

I am very involved in state government. But I do not bring it to church. Nor do I want to hear anything political when I go to church.

[Esaias]

Originally Posted by Scott Pitta

I am very involved in state government. But I do not bring it to church. Nor do I want to hear anything political when I go to church.

That's because you don't want to surrender your politics to Christ.

[Aquila]

I think Christians should address issues of the day in gatherings. They should also speak out against the sin in every society, calling all to repentance publicly.

But, there is no mandate for revolution, voting, or politicking. Christ must be preached, not party or agenda. The Kingdom must be declared, embraced, and open for all to enter, in every culture and political environment. The Kingdom is very real and present, regardless of earthly policies or government embraced by the masses.

Thought...

Our quest for political power will lead us to being followers of one of these worldly parties...not spiritual leaders calling both parties and all people to Christ.

[RachelRose]

Originally Posted by Aquila

I think Christians should address issues of the day in gatherings. They should also speak out against the sin in every society, calling all to repentance publicly.

But, there is no mandate for revolution, voting, or politicking. Christ must be preached, not party or agenda. The Kingdom must be declared, embraced, and open for all to enter, in every culture and political environment. The Kingdom is very real and present, regardless of earthly policies or government embraced by the masses.

Thought...

Our quest for political power will lead us to being followers of one of these worldly parties...not spiritual leaders calling both parties and all people to Christ.

Sheriff Brady just stopped by the POA and gave $10,000.00 to the building fund. Oh by the way, vote Republican. I asked an elder as to why this takes place and he said we are reaching for their soles. Really? I have been connected with the POA for at least 25 years and he still is not saved...

[Evang.Benincasa]

Now RR Is back at POA?

Good grief