We run our website the way we wished the whole internet worked: we provide high quality original content with no ads. We are funded solely by your direct support. Please consider supporting this project.
Christians Should…
The American Jesus blog recently posted a series of reflections from Christians arguing for different ways of voting including, Barack Obama, Mitt Romney, Jill Stein, as well as an argument for not voting. It’s a little bit disturbing that each post is titled “Why Christians Should…” as this reflects the way we confuse our mission in the world with our politics. But what we appreciate about this is the awareness that thoughtful and faithful Christians can disagree when it comes to politics and have very good reasons for doing so. This is why we refuse to weigh in on any particular political position. What we have in common is so much bigger than the places where we differ, and we need to distinguish between the political realm and the kingdom of this world. In the final wrap-up post, Zack Hunt pulls it all together with some really helpful thoughts.
From the wrap-up:
All that is not to say that as Christians we can’t or shouldn’t have political opinions or that we can’t or shouldn’t voice those opinions vigorously. There is great virtue in many of the political causes we champion. I would even go a step further and argue that it is our faith which, in many cases, is the source of those causes we are so passionate about. However, no matter how noble our cause may be, as Christians we are never excused from being humble or acting with civility towards those we disagree with.
Let’s all stay humble in this season and remember where our ultimate allegiance lies.
Image by Chris barker. Sourced via Flickr.
Related Reading
Jesus and Democracy
Question: I’ve heard that the reason Jesus didn’t speak up on political issues was because he didn’t have the benefit of living in a democracy. Since we do, don’t we have a duty both to God and our country to be involved in politics? Answer: If the reason Jesus didn’t speak up on political issues…
One Hope
When Jesus was crucified by his enemies instead of conquering his enemies, the hope of Jesus’ disciples came crashing down in utter despair. They had hoped that Jesus would establish the kingdom of God in the same way that other kingdoms were established. However, the resurrection reveals that the kingdom of God is not like…
How Do I Respond to Family Members Who Pressure Me About Politics?
Greg discusses some fantastic strategies for dealing with family members who pressure others with their politics. http://traffic.libsyn.com/askgregboyd/Episode_0052.mp3
A Kingdom Not of This World
Bruxy Cavey spoke at Woodland Hills Church back in May as a part of the Tapestry series, and this is a little snippet of his sermon. It’s a wonderful description of the Anabaptist approach to politics. Take a look!
Lighten Up: Election Season Blues
It’s a little sad (but still pretty funny) that there are actual campaign posters similar to this one. The next time you get fed up or discouraged with all the over-the-top election ads, you might want to browse through these for a chuckle. And remember that our hope is not located in any election. Thank…
Greg Boyd and Jim Wallis Debate on Faith and Politics
A few readers have been asking us to repost the audio (sorry, no video is available) of Greg’s debate with Jim Wallis on Faith and Politics back in 2006. It’s an oldie but goodie. Enjoy!