Living Generously: Faith, Politics, and Christ's Kingdom
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound impact of generosity and the importance of living out our faith in tangible ways. We celebrated the church's ongoing support for communities in need, emphasizing that our contributions are not just financial but also spiritual, as we pray and stand in solidarity with those we help. This spirit of giving is a testament to our commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus, who never shied away from addressing the pressing issues of His time.
As we approach Election Day, we are reminded of the importance of engaging with our civic duties while maintaining our focus on Christ. The political climate can often feel divisive, but as followers of Jesus, we are called to rise above the fray and embody His love and grace. Our identity is not defined by political affiliations or earthly governments but by our citizenship in the Kingdom of God. This perspective allows us to navigate the complexities of life with peace and assurance, knowing that Jesus is King and our ultimate hope lies in Him.
We are encouraged to filter everything through a biblical lens, seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all our decisions. This means prioritizing His kingdom and righteousness above all else, trusting that He will provide for our needs. By doing so, we can engage with the world around us in a way that reflects His love and truth, building bridges rather than creating divisions.
In this season, let us focus on policy over personality, engage actively rather than succumb to apathy, and practice humility while avoiding idolatry. Above all, let us choose faith over fear, knowing that regardless of the election's outcome, our security and peace are found in Christ alone. As we continue to walk this journey, may we be a light in the world, drawing others to the hope and love found in Jesus.
Key Takeaways:
1. Generosity as a Reflection of Faith: Our giving is not just about financial support but a reflection of our faith and commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus. By supporting communities in need, we embody the love and compassion of Christ, making a tangible difference in the world. [33:59]
2. Jesus is King: Our identity and security are found in Christ, not in earthly governments or political affiliations. As followers of Jesus, we are called to rise above divisive politics and embody His love and grace, knowing that our ultimate hope lies in His eternal kingdom. [42:34]
3. Biblical Filter: We are encouraged to filter everything through a biblical lens, seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all our decisions. By prioritizing His kingdom and righteousness, we can engage with the world in a way that reflects His love and truth. [52:48]
4. Building Bridges, Not Chasms: As believers, we are called to build bridges that draw others closer to Jesus, rather than creating divisions. This means loving others even in disagreement and ensuring that our actions and words reflect the goodness of God. [58:10]
5. Faith Over Fear: In times of uncertainty, we are reminded to choose faith over fear, trusting in Jesus as our ultimate source of peace and security. Regardless of the election's outcome, our hope is anchored in Christ, who is unchanging and sovereign. [01:09:07]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [33:59] - Generosity and Community Support
- [38:29] - Jesus, Politics, and Life
- [41:54] - Rising Above Division
- [42:34] - Jesus is King
- [44:29] - What Would Jesus Do?
- [46:12] - Three Reminders for Election Season
- [48:20] - Security in Christ
- [49:10] - Temporary Residence on Earth
- [50:28] - Reserved for Jesus
- [52:48] - Filtering Life Biblically
- [55:29] - Praying for Leaders
- [56:37] - Taking a Biblical Stance
- [58:10] - Building Bridges, Not Chasms
- [01:09:07] - Choosing Faith Over Fear
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Malachi 3:10
2. Philippians 2:10-11
3. Matthew 6:33
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Observation Questions:
1. How does Malachi 3:10 describe the blessings that come from generosity and tithing? How does this relate to the church's support for communities in need? [33:59]
2. According to Philippians 2:10-11, what is the ultimate acknowledgment that every person will make about Jesus? How does this passage reinforce the sermon’s message about Jesus being King? [46:12]
3. In Matthew 6:33, what does Jesus instruct us to seek first, and what is promised as a result? How does this instruction guide us in filtering our decisions through a biblical lens? [52:48]
4. What examples from the sermon illustrate the concept of building bridges rather than creating divisions? [58:10]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the act of giving, as described in Malachi 3:10, serve as a reflection of one's faith and commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus? [33:59]
2. What does it mean for believers to find their identity and security in Christ rather than in earthly governments, as discussed in Philippians 2:10-11? [46:12]
3. How can seeking God's kingdom first, as instructed in Matthew 6:33, influence our approach to civic duties and political engagement? [52:48]
4. In what ways can believers actively build bridges and avoid creating chasms in their interactions with others, especially during divisive times? [58:10]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent act of generosity you participated in. How did it reflect your faith, and what impact did it have on those you helped? [33:59]
2. In what ways can you remind yourself daily that your ultimate hope and security lie in Jesus, not in political outcomes or affiliations? [46:12]
3. Consider a decision you need to make this week. How can you ensure that you are filtering this decision through a biblical lens, seeking God's wisdom first? [52:48]
4. Think of a relationship where there is disagreement. How can you build a bridge in that relationship, showing love and understanding even amidst differences? [58:10]
5. Identify a fear or anxiety you have about the upcoming election or political climate. How can you choose faith over fear in this situation, trusting in Christ's sovereignty? [01:09:07]
6. How can you engage more actively in your community or church, moving from a consumer mindset to a contributor mindset? [01:04:51]
7. Reflect on a time when you may have idolized a political figure or position. How can you practice humility and ensure that your ultimate allegiance is to Christ alone? [01:06:51]
Devotional
Day 1: Generosity as a Reflection of Faith
Generosity is more than just giving money; it is a profound expression of faith and a tangible way to live out the teachings of Jesus. When we support communities in need, we are not only providing financial assistance but also embodying the love and compassion of Christ. This act of giving is a testament to our commitment to making a difference in the world, reflecting the heart of Jesus who consistently addressed the needs of those around Him. Our contributions, whether financial or spiritual, serve as a beacon of hope and a demonstration of our faith in action. [33:59]
"Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed." (Proverbs 19:17, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a specific way you can extend generosity to someone in need this week. How can you ensure that your giving reflects the love and compassion of Christ?
Day 2: Jesus is King
Our identity and security are rooted in Christ, transcending earthly governments and political affiliations. As followers of Jesus, we are called to rise above the divisive nature of politics and embody His love and grace. Our ultimate hope lies in His eternal kingdom, which provides us with peace and assurance amidst the complexities of life. By focusing on our citizenship in the Kingdom of God, we can navigate the political climate with a perspective that prioritizes our faith and allegiance to Jesus as King. [42:34]
"But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." (Philippians 3:20, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you demonstrate that your primary identity is in Christ, especially in conversations about politics or current events?
Day 3: Biblical Filter
We are encouraged to view everything through a biblical lens, seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all our decisions. By prioritizing His kingdom and righteousness, we can engage with the world in a way that reflects His love and truth. This means allowing Scripture to shape our perspectives and actions, ensuring that our lives align with God's will. By doing so, we build bridges rather than create divisions, drawing others closer to Jesus through our words and deeds. [52:48]
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105, ESV)
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you need to apply a biblical perspective. How can you seek God's wisdom in this area today?
Day 4: Building Bridges, Not Chasms
As believers, we are called to build bridges that draw others closer to Jesus, rather than creating divisions. This involves loving others even in disagreement and ensuring that our actions and words reflect the goodness of God. By focusing on unity and understanding, we can foster relationships that are grounded in love and respect, ultimately pointing others to the hope and love found in Christ. [58:10]
"Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up." (Romans 15:2, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a relationship where there is disagreement or tension. How can you take a step towards building a bridge in that relationship today?
Day 5: Faith Over Fear
In times of uncertainty, we are reminded to choose faith over fear, trusting in Jesus as our ultimate source of peace and security. Regardless of the election's outcome or any other worldly concern, our hope is anchored in Christ, who is unchanging and sovereign. By focusing on faith, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence, knowing that our security and peace are found in Him alone. [01:09:07]
"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." (2 Timothy 1:7, ESV)
Reflection: Identify a specific fear or worry you are facing. How can you actively choose faith over fear in this situation today?
Quotes
1. "I love the opportunities God gives us and gifts us and trusts us with and what we get to do with them. You go ahead and pull out your notebooks and pens and you can title the message this. We're going nostalgic today. Anybody remember WWJD back in the day? Come on. We got bracelets for you outside on the lawn. Grab yours on the way out. We're going back old school, but you can title it WWJD." ([00:37:20] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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2. "How are we supposed to handle moments in the election? How are we supposed to handle political times that are just so mudslinging and just difficult to navigate? What are we supposed to do? I would challenge you to ask a question that I grew up with. I grew up with. I grew up hearing as a fad. But what if it became a lifestyle and it's WWJD? What would my best friend Jeff do?" ([00:43:39] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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3. "If we're followers of Jesus, and I understand there's people in the room, and you're kind of like, well, I'm not a follower of Jesus yet. And I would just tell you, hear me, it's the greatest decision you'll ever make in your life. There's an eternal security that does not live in the White House in Washington, D.C. It does not reside in a state house in Columbia, South Carolina. He's not in any office. His name is Jesus Christ." ([00:45:33] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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4. "Jesus is king. Jesus is king. In fact, Philippians chapter 2, verses 10 and 11, it says this, the Apostle Paul and Timothy, they're writing to the church in Philippi, and here's what they say. Jesus, watch this, every knee will bow. It's not some knees. It's not only a few people. It's not they may bow." ([00:46:27] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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5. "And so the reality is, is where are we at in taking our stance? I'm telling you, take your stance. Take your biblical stance. Take your stance and go, this is what I know the Bible says, but also understand that not everybody sees it the way that you do. Even if they're believers, they may not even know what the Bible says about that." ([00:57:21] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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6. "Build bridges closer to Jesus. Don't create chasms that create a division between Jesus and others. Or even the church and others. Or even you and others. Take your stance. Do it biblically. Do it lovingly. Do it boldly. Do it strongly. I would say all of that. However, I would also say, make sure that I'm not creating such a chasm that people can't see how good God is." ([00:58:09] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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7. "I can love others and not love God. But I cannot love God and not love others. It's not possible. Verse 9. By this, the love of God was manifested in us that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. 1 John is telling us, by the way you love others, they receive Jesus as the sacrifice of their sins." ([01:00:58] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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8. "Focus on policy over personality. These are not all original for me. If you've seen some of them somewhere, me too, all right? I just like them. I think they're good reminders. Choose policy over personality. Can I just give you a truth? Okay? The truth is, every politician, no matter what office they're in, has spent years polishing their personality to allow you to fall in love with them even if you disagree with the policy." ([01:03:55] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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9. "Choose engagement over apathy. Can I tell you, apathy has killed more churches and more families than anything else in the world. Choose engagement over apathy. The truth is, is we have the opportunity to engage in a constitutionally, constitutional system in government that allows us to vote for the President of the United States. Use that. What an honor. What a privilege to be able to do that." ([01:05:25] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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10. "Practice humility. Avoid idolatry. Man, don't let us become so enamored with a personality or a person or a position that we now idolize that over the Word of God. Over the truth of God. Man, just fight against that in our lives in general, but especially in election season. Because here's the truth. Your paycheck is not a savior. The president's not the savior." ([01:07:34] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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