Choosing Faith Over Fear in Politics
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we are diving into a topic that many of us find uncomfortable but necessary—politics. As we approach another election season, we are bombarded with messages that this is the most important election of our lifetime. While there are significant issues at stake, such as the economy, security, liberty, and morality, we must question whether this rhetoric is driven by genuine concern or fear-mongering.
Throughout history, fear has been a powerful tool to mobilize people, and it is no different today. Fear can drive us to make decisions that we might not otherwise make, and it can even divide families and communities. We see this division in our own lives, where political differences have strained relationships and disrupted gatherings. But what if there was a better way to engage politically, one that doesn't rely on fear but on faith and love?
Jesus lived in a time that was just as politically charged as ours, if not more so. The issues of economy, security, liberty, and morality were all present, and various political groups vied for power. The Pharisees, Sadducees, Zealots, Hellenists, Essenes, and Romans each had their own agendas and methods for influencing society. Yet, Jesus did not align Himself with any of these groups. Instead, He offered a different way—a way that focused on pursuing people rather than positions of power.
Jesus' approach was revolutionary. He didn't seek to overthrow the Roman Empire through violence or political maneuvering. Instead, He focused on changing hearts and minds, one person at a time. This grassroots movement eventually toppled the Roman Empire, not through elections or assassinations, but through the transformative power of love and faith.
As we face our own political challenges, we must ask ourselves: Who reflects our values? Who do we align with? And most importantly, who do we put our trust in? Jesus offers us an alternative to the divisive and fear-driven politics of our time. He invites us to join His movement, to prioritize people over power, and to live out our faith in a way that brings unity and healing.
So, as you prepare to vote, consider switching parties—not to another political group, but to Jesus' party. Pledge your life, your wealth, and your very being to His movement. It's the only party that truly prioritizes all people, eases fears, and unifies us despite our differences. Imagine what the world could be like if we all made Jesus our primary allegiance.
### Key Takeaways
1. Fear as a Political Tool: Fear is often used to manipulate and mobilize people, especially during election seasons. While there are legitimate concerns, we must discern whether our actions are driven by fear or faith. Fear can divide families and communities, but faith can bring us together. [31:58]
2. Jesus' Political Context: Jesus lived in a politically charged environment with various groups vying for power. Despite the political and religious divisions, Jesus did not align Himself with any of these groups. Instead, He offered a different way, focusing on changing hearts and minds rather than seeking political power. [36:13]
3. Pursuing People Over Power: Jesus' approach to political engagement was revolutionary. He focused on pursuing people rather than positions of power. This grassroots movement eventually led to the transformation of the Roman Empire, not through elections or violence, but through love and faith. [55:25]
4. The Greatest Election: The most important election of our lifetime is not about choosing a political candidate but electing Jesus as the Lord and Savior of our lives. Aligning our lives with Jesus and His teachings can bring about true change and unity in our world. [01:16:58]
5. Imagining a Unified Church: Imagine a world where Christians make their primary allegiance to Jesus and His pursuit of people rather than political power. Such a shift could bring about unprecedented unity and healing, making the world a better place by making us better people. [01:15:20]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[30:14] - Introduction to Political Season
[30:35] - Conversations at the Gym
[31:15] - The Most Important Election?
[31:58] - Fear as a Political Tool
[32:23] - What's at Stake?
[33:03] - Morality and Human Decency
[33:45] - Driven by Fear
[34:16] - Divided Families and Communities
[35:36] - Better Candidates and Conversations
[36:13] - Jesus' Political Context
[37:55] - Political Groups in Jesus' Time
[55:25] - Jesus' Alternative Approach
[01:00:30] - Jesus' Question in Caesarea Philippi
[01:16:58] - The Greatest Election
[01:20:07] - Closing Prayer and Call to Action
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 16:13-20 (NIV)
> When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.
2. Daniel 7:13-14 (NIV)
> "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed."
### Observation Questions
1. What question did Jesus ask His disciples in the region of Caesarea Philippi, and what were their initial responses? (Matthew 16:13-14)
2. How did Simon Peter respond to Jesus' question about His identity, and what was Jesus' reaction to Peter's answer? (Matthew 16:15-17)
3. What promise did Jesus make to Peter after his declaration of Jesus as the Messiah? (Matthew 16:18-19)
4. According to the sermon, what were some of the political groups during Jesus' time, and what were their main agendas? [37:19]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus chose to ask His disciples about His identity in Caesarea Philippi, a place filled with temples and shrines to various gods? [01:02:13]
2. How does Peter's declaration of Jesus as the Messiah relate to the vision in Daniel 7:13-14? What does this connection imply about Jesus' authority and mission?
3. In what ways does Jesus' promise to build His church on the "rock" of Peter's confession challenge the political and religious structures of His time? [01:07:35]
4. The sermon suggests that Jesus offers a different way of political engagement by focusing on people rather than power. How does this approach contrast with the methods of the political groups mentioned in the sermon? [01:12:32]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when fear influenced your political decisions or conversations. How can you shift from a fear-driven approach to one based on faith and love? [31:58]
2. Jesus did not align Himself with any political group but focused on changing hearts and minds. How can you apply this principle in your political engagements and discussions? [36:13]
3. The sermon encourages us to prioritize people over power. What are some practical ways you can pursue people and build relationships, even with those who have different political views? [01:12:32]
4. Consider the idea of "switching parties" to align with Jesus' movement. What steps can you take to make Jesus your primary allegiance in all areas of your life, including politics? [01:16:58]
5. The sermon mentions that political differences have divided families and communities. How can you work towards healing and unity in your relationships that have been strained by political disagreements? [34:16]
6. Imagine a world where Christians make their primary allegiance to Jesus and His pursuit of people. What changes would you expect to see in your community and the broader society if this were the case? [01:15:20]
7. How can you actively participate in Jesus' movement to bring unity and healing, especially during politically charged times? What specific actions can you take this week to live out this commitment? [01:18:41]
Devotional
Day 1: Fear as a Political Tool
Fear is often used to manipulate and mobilize people, especially during election seasons. While there are legitimate concerns, we must discern whether our actions are driven by fear or faith. Fear can divide families and communities, but faith can bring us together. [31:58]
Throughout history, fear has been a powerful tool to mobilize people, and it is no different today. Fear can drive us to make decisions that we might not otherwise make, and it can even divide families and communities. We see this division in our own lives, where political differences have strained relationships and disrupted gatherings. But what if there was a better way to engage politically, one that doesn't rely on fear but on faith and love?
As we approach another election season, we are bombarded with messages that this is the most important election of our lifetime. While there are significant issues at stake, such as the economy, security, liberty, and morality, we must question whether this rhetoric is driven by genuine concern or fear-mongering. Jesus offers us an alternative to the divisive and fear-driven politics of our time. He invites us to join His movement, to prioritize people over power, and to live out our faith in a way that brings unity and healing.
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: Think of a recent political discussion that caused tension in your relationships. How can you approach future conversations with faith and love instead of fear?
Day 2: Jesus' Political Context
Jesus lived in a politically charged environment with various groups vying for power. Despite the political and religious divisions, Jesus did not align Himself with any of these groups. Instead, He offered a different way, focusing on changing hearts and minds rather than seeking political power. [36:13]
In Jesus' time, the issues of economy, security, liberty, and morality were all present, and various political groups vied for power. The Pharisees, Sadducees, Zealots, Hellenists, Essenes, and Romans each had their own agendas and methods for influencing society. Yet, Jesus did not align Himself with any of these groups. Instead, He offered a different way—a way that focused on pursuing people rather than positions of power.
Jesus' approach was revolutionary. He didn't seek to overthrow the Roman Empire through violence or political maneuvering. Instead, He focused on changing hearts and minds, one person at a time. This grassroots movement eventually toppled the Roman Empire, not through elections or assassinations, but through the transformative power of love and faith.
John 18:36 (ESV): "Jesus answered, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.'"
Reflection: Reflect on how you can focus on changing hearts and minds in your community rather than aligning with political groups. What practical steps can you take to prioritize people over power?
Day 3: Pursuing People Over Power
Jesus' approach to political engagement was revolutionary. He focused on pursuing people rather than positions of power. This grassroots movement eventually led to the transformation of the Roman Empire, not through elections or violence, but through love and faith. [55:25]
Jesus' method of engaging with the political and social issues of His time was unlike any other. He did not seek to gain political power or influence through traditional means. Instead, He focused on the individual, changing hearts and minds through personal interaction and love. This approach was not only revolutionary but also incredibly effective. Over time, the grassroots movement that Jesus started grew and spread, eventually leading to the transformation of the Roman Empire.
This transformation did not come about through elections, violence, or political maneuvering. It came through the power of love and faith. Jesus' followers, inspired by His example, went out into the world and made a difference one person at a time. They prioritized people over power, and in doing so, they changed the course of history. As we face our own political challenges, we can learn from Jesus' example and focus on pursuing people rather than positions of power.
Matthew 20:26-28 (ESV): "It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Reflection: Think of one person in your life who needs to experience the love and faith of Jesus. How can you reach out to them this week and prioritize their well-being over any political or social agenda?
Day 4: The Greatest Election
The most important election of our lifetime is not about choosing a political candidate but electing Jesus as the Lord and Savior of our lives. Aligning our lives with Jesus and His teachings can bring about true change and unity in our world. [01:16:58]
As we approach another election season, we are often told that this is the most important election of our lifetime. While there are significant issues at stake, such as the economy, security, liberty, and morality, we must remember that the most important election is not about choosing a political candidate. The greatest election is about electing Jesus as the Lord and Savior of our lives.
When we align our lives with Jesus and His teachings, we can bring about true change and unity in our world. Jesus offers us an alternative to the divisive and fear-driven politics of our time. He invites us to join His movement, to prioritize people over power, and to live out our faith in a way that brings unity and healing. By making Jesus our primary allegiance, we can make a difference in our communities and in the world.
Joshua 24:15 (ESV): "And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Reflection: Reflect on your current priorities and allegiances. How can you make Jesus the primary focus of your life, especially during this election season?
Day 5: Imagining a Unified Church
Imagine a world where Christians make their primary allegiance to Jesus and His pursuit of people rather than political power. Such a shift could bring about unprecedented unity and healing, making the world a better place by making us better people. [01:15:20]
Imagine a world where Christians make their primary allegiance to Jesus and His pursuit of people rather than political power. Such a shift could bring about unprecedented unity and healing, making the world a better place by making us better people. When we prioritize Jesus and His teachings, we can overcome the divisions that often arise from political differences.
Jesus' approach to political engagement was revolutionary. He focused on pursuing people rather than positions of power. This grassroots movement eventually led to the transformation of the Roman Empire, not through elections or violence, but through love and faith. As we face our own political challenges, we must ask ourselves: Who reflects our values? Who do we align with? And most importantly, who do we put our trust in?
Ephesians 4:3-6 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Reflection: Think about how you can contribute to the unity and healing of your church and community. What specific actions can you take to prioritize Jesus' teachings and bring people together despite political differences?
Quotes
1. "If this is the most important election of our lifetime there are issues that are so consequential to our future, don't you wish you had better candidates? Or is it just me? If it is so consequential, don't you wish we could have better conversations? Right? And so what I want us to do over the next couple of weeks is kind of change the conversation a little bit and maybe redirect some of you. Because here's the thing. I believe that Jesus gave us a better way to be politically engaged. He wasn't passive. He didn't sit on the sidelines, right? And he doesn't expect his followers to do so either, right?" [35:36] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "But the truth is, every one of them were fearful more than faithful. Fearful of losing control, fearful of losing something of the past, fearful of losing their values, fearful of losing their money, fearful of losing something. And so they were able to spend it in their day, just like we spend it in ours, and mask their fear behind their faith. Who do you choose? And who reflects you? Because I want to tell you, when Jesus came on the scene, they were trying to pressure him into one of these. And there were some, some misassociations of trying to put him into one of these. And if you were to ask, well, who did Jesus end up voting for? None of the above. None of the above." [55:25] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus offers a better way to be politically engaged by pursuing people rather than positions of power. Now, I am incredibly thankful and grateful for every person of faith, of Christian faith, who has thrown their hat in the ring and taken on all that is involved in running for office, whether locally, or nationally, or whatever. Because, look. calls, I'm telling you, you put a target on your back and it is a terrible life ahead of you. There's a cost. But can I tell you, if God's told you to do it and called you to do it, maybe he needs to call more of us to do it. But can I tell you, that was not how Jesus said we're going to change the world." [01:12:32] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So the question you have to ask is, am I more aligned and active with a political party that is seeking powerful positions than I am with Jesus and his pursuit of people? Because we get so entangled in this conversation of politics and we start making our position known. I can drive down the street and tell you who people are voting for, but I can't tell you if their heart's bent. And when we do, we know while it is rallying our troops, it is also pushing away the very people God may want us to pursue." [01:14:44] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The greatest election of your lifetime is when you elect to put Jesus as Lord and Savior of your life. And then you align your life and all of your pursuits behind him. So here's what I'm asking you to do. Switch parties. Switch parties. Just pledge your life and your heart and your will and your faith. And just like the founding fathers of our country, all of my wealth and my very life and being, I pledge to Jesus Christ and his movement and his party. I'm not talking about the church as some denominational thing, or I'm not asking you to join this place. I'm asking you to join his movement." [01:16:58] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Imagine what might happen if the people of Jesus just lived and acted like Jesus. Father, we have hard choices to make. Heavenly Father, some of us lose sleep over it and some of us have lost relationships over it. But God, I pray that you would help us mend those relationships and throttle back the conversation. And Lord God, that when we make our move, we would walk out at peace with you because we know it doesn't matter. You are the Messiah, the son of the living God. You have been tapped as the son of man who will take the throne and rule the world. And God, we ask that you would start right here in this place. And Jesus, we ask that you start ruling our lives now." [01:20:07] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "And so what I want us to do today, I'm going to lay a little foundation, jump into some scripture at the end, right? But I want to lay a little bit of foundation. And so this can be kind of like a little history lesson to let you know what these political groups were like during Jesus's time. Some of them you may have heard of. The first one you've probably heard of if you've been around church or heard the gospel stories about Jesus, the Pharisees. Because they're probably the most common, well-known, well-known, whatever among Christian circles and churches and all that. Jesus was always, you know, kind of at odds with the Pharisees." [37:55] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "And so here, to get you in the mindset, Jesus has walked his followers, us, up the steps of the U.S. capital in a city full of shrines. And full of deities. And full of all the symbolism of the power and the might of Rome, which is ruling the world as the dominant power and dominant influence. And he says, who do people say the Son of Man is? Now, the Son of Man comes from Daniel. It's a Jewish prophet. And Daniel 7, during another political time when other nations were occupying Israel and carting them off and everything, Daniel has a vision, right? A daydream vision, something of God. And he sees. He sees these four beasts coming up out of the ocean, out of the water." [01:03:16] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "And so Rome's influence and their control, it was overwhelming. I mean, who's going to resist that? All of these other political parties, who can come up against that? You just got to find your place within the system and influence what you can, because nobody can overthrow Rome. It was seemingly insurmountable. So, as you stand in Jesus's world, if you and your buddies and your friends and your family, and if you had the opportunity to vote, which you don't, but you still got to align with one or the other, here's the question. Who reflects you? Because that's your ballot. who would you choose?" [54:04] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "And so what I want us to do over the next couple of weeks is kind of change the conversation a little bit and maybe redirect some of you. Because here's the thing. I believe that Jesus gave us a better way to be politically engaged. He wasn't passive. He didn't sit on the sidelines, right? And he doesn't expect his followers to do so either, right? But when we say, yeah, but it was so much different back then. No, no, no, no. When he was walking the earth, when he was doing his ministry, when he was gathering his followers, starting his kind of movement, it was just as politically charged then as it is now, probably even more so." [36:13] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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