9 Comments
User's avatar
Ron Kays's avatar

Religion informs Politics and together they form Worldview.

Every thought, word, and deed emanates from Worldview.

Religion and Politics are part of the fabric of life.

Expand full comment
Scott Schultz's avatar

Good synopsis. Other things form worldview, such as “culture”, education/indoctrination, etc

Expand full comment
Ron Kays's avatar

I would agree, but those other things emanate from religion (a God; no God; many gods).

Expand full comment
Scott Schultz's avatar

Chicken or egg? God or no God is the first determinant of religion.

Expand full comment
Zach Monroe's avatar

This is great, makes me rethink how I perceive Sunday gatherings. If we are coming together for town halls, it has implications on community, the kingdom, and the nature of Church authority!

Expand full comment
Scott Schultz's avatar

Funny indeed. I go through that all the time and don't write nearly as much or as well as you. We would certainly do well to not lead off discussions with some subjects. "justification" is exactly correct. I suppose it depends on how people interpret "might do well", but that could lead to severe parsing! I "coined the phrase", "Askers or arguers" which is similar to one of our former pastor's "peace makers or point makers." Context and relationships are the key toward fruitful discussions.

Expand full comment
Scott Schultz's avatar

“If politics can smuggle sinful leaven into our lives, maybe it’s best avoided after all.” As The Beach Boys sang, “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” Easier to ignore than avoid, sadly.

Expand full comment
Scott Schultz's avatar

Another well considered piece. “And we might do well to steer clear of some subjects almost completely.” may be part of the problem rather than a solution. What are some topics would you avoid and why?

Expand full comment
David Miller's avatar

You know, it's funny to me you bring that line up because I didn't like it all that much when I wrote it. I think I almost cut it and, in hindsight, probably should have. Since Jesus is Lord over all, there isn't really anything that's off limits. And what I wrote could imply that some issues are off limits or at least close.

If I were to try to justify that line now, I'd say that it could apply to different people on different topics. By that, I mean, we should each be humble and recognize there are some subjects we don't know much about. And if we might do well to avoid those, or if we do bring them up, do so in a spirit of asking questions and learning more.

But looking back on that, I don't think I would include that sentence now. Because I wouldn't say that there are specific issues that all Christians should try to avoid. Thanks for bringing it up.

Expand full comment