Prioritizing Faith Over Politics in Turbulent Times

 

Summary

In today's message, I wanted to address the heightened political climate and its impact on our lives, especially as we approach a significant election. Many of us feel overwhelmed by the constant campaigning, divisive rhetoric, and the bombardment of political messages. This has led to an exaggerated importance placed on politics, even among Christians, often overshadowing the eternal truths of our faith. I want to remind you that God's sovereignty remains unchanged, and His kingdom is not dependent on earthly politics.

The Bible provides a clear perspective on the role of government and politics in our lives. While public service is a noble calling, it should never compete with our allegiance to God's kingdom. Politics are temporary, but God's family, the church, is eternal. We must prioritize our spiritual growth and commitment to the church over political affiliations. Romans 12:2 encourages us to be transformed by renewing our minds, allowing us to discern God's will and make wise decisions.

I also highlighted the stark contrast between the values of Jesus and those often seen in political arenas. While politics may emphasize division and fear, Jesus calls us to unity and love within His church. The church should be a safe haven where unity takes precedence over political differences. We are called to welcome fellow believers with open arms, even when we disagree, and to focus on our shared faith and purpose.

Furthermore, character matters greatly in leadership. Unlike the political view that results justify the means, God values integrity and justice. The character of a leader is crucial, and we should strive to embody the qualities that God blesses, as outlined in Isaiah 32. As we navigate this election season, let's remember that our ultimate hope and trust should be in Jesus, the true Savior of the world.

Key Takeaways:

- God's Sovereignty Over Politics: Despite the political chaos, God's sovereignty remains unchanged. Politics are temporary, but God's kingdom is eternal. We must prioritize our spiritual growth and commitment to the church over political affiliations. [06:20]

- Transformation Through Renewed Minds: Romans 12:2 encourages us to be transformed by renewing our minds, allowing us to discern God's will and make wise decisions. This transformation leads to better decision-making and reduced tension in our lives. [07:10]

- Unity in the Church: Jesus calls us to prioritize unity within His church over political differences. We are to welcome fellow believers with open arms, even when we disagree, focusing on our shared faith and purpose. [24:08]

- Character in Leadership: God values integrity and justice in leadership. Unlike the political view that results justify the means, the character of a leader is crucial. We should strive to embody the qualities that God blesses, as outlined in Isaiah 32. [30:58]

- Trust in Jesus, Not Politics: Our ultimate hope and trust should be in Jesus, the true Savior of the world. Politics cannot solve all our problems, but Jesus offers salvation and transformation. [18:36]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:12] - Election Year Concerns
- [00:42] - Continuous Campaigning
- [01:14] - Early Voting and Record Turnout
- [01:54] - Exaggerated Importance of Politics
- [02:29] - Tension and Doomsday Attitudes
- [03:05] - God's Sovereignty and Control
- [04:34] - Mind of Christ During Elections
- [05:38] - Public Service as a Noble Vocation
- [06:39] - God's Perspective on Politics
- [07:10] - Transformation Through Renewed Minds
- [08:01] - Guided by God's Grace
- [09:19] - The World vs. The Word
- [10:54] - Politics vs. The Church
- [13:31] - Importance of the Church
- [18:36] - Trust in Jesus, Not Politics
- [24:08] - Unity in the Church
- [30:58] - Character in Leadership
- [39:04] - Prayer for Nations

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Romans 12:2 - "Do not conform yourselves to be like the people of this world. Instead, be transformed within by a new way of thinking. Then you will be able to decide what God wants for you, and you will know what is good and pleasing to him, and what is his perfect will."
2. Isaiah 32:1-8 - A prophetic picture of the qualities God values in a leader, emphasizing integrity and justice.

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Observation Questions:

1. According to the sermon, what are some of the factors that have contributed to the exaggerated importance of politics in our lives? ([01:33])

2. How does Romans 12:2 relate to the idea of being transformed by renewing our minds, as discussed in the sermon? ([07:10])

3. What contrast does the sermon draw between the values of Jesus and those often seen in political arenas? ([04:34])

4. What qualities does Isaiah 32 highlight as important in a leader, and how do these compare to the qualities often emphasized in political leadership? ([33:10])

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How might the call to be transformed by renewing our minds in Romans 12:2 help Christians navigate the political climate without losing focus on their faith? ([07:10])

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the church should serve as a safe haven for unity, and how can this be practically achieved in a politically divided world? ([24:08])

3. How does the sermon challenge the notion that political results justify the means, and what implications does this have for Christian leadership? ([30:58])

4. What does the sermon imply about the role of character in leadership, and how does this align with the qualities described in Isaiah 32? ([33:10])

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your current engagement with political news and discussions. How can you ensure that your focus remains on spiritual growth and commitment to the church rather than political affiliations? ([06:20])

2. Romans 12:2 speaks about renewing our minds. What practical steps can you take this week to transform your thinking and align it more closely with God's will? ([07:10])

3. Consider a recent disagreement you had with a fellow believer over political issues. How can you prioritize unity and love in your interactions, as Jesus calls us to do? ([24:08])

4. Think about a leader you admire. What qualities do they possess that align with the characteristics God values, as outlined in Isaiah 32? How can you cultivate similar qualities in your own life? ([33:10])

5. The sermon emphasizes trusting in Jesus rather than politics. Identify an area in your life where you have placed too much trust in political solutions. How can you shift your trust to Jesus this week? ([18:36])

6. Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by political messages. How can you create boundaries to protect your peace and focus on God's eternal kingdom? ([01:33])

7. How can you actively contribute to making your church a place of unity and refuge from political division? What specific actions can you take to foster a welcoming environment for all believers? ([24:08])

Devotional

Day 1: God's Sovereignty Over Politics
In a world where political chaos often seems overwhelming, it's crucial to remember that God's sovereignty remains unchanged. Politics are temporary, but God's kingdom is eternal. As believers, we are called to prioritize our spiritual growth and commitment to the church over political affiliations. This perspective helps us navigate the political landscape without losing sight of our ultimate allegiance to God's kingdom. By focusing on our faith, we can find peace and stability amidst the turmoil of political seasons. [06:20]

Psalm 103:19-22 (ESV): "The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all. Bless the Lord, O you his angels, you mighty ones who do his word, obeying the voice of his word! Bless the Lord, all his hosts, his ministers, who do his will! Bless the Lord, all his works, in all places of his dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul!"

Reflection: How can you actively prioritize your spiritual growth over political discussions this week? What steps can you take to ensure your focus remains on God's eternal kingdom?


Day 2: Transformation Through Renewed Minds
Romans 12:2 encourages believers to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, allowing them to discern God's will and make wise decisions. This transformation is essential, especially in a world filled with divisive rhetoric and constant campaigning. By renewing our minds, we can reduce tension in our lives and make decisions that align with God's purpose. This process involves immersing ourselves in God's Word and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life. [07:10]

Ephesians 4:22-24 (ESV): "To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."

Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to renew your mind and align your thoughts with God's will? How can this transformation impact your decision-making process?


Day 3: Unity in the Church
Jesus calls us to prioritize unity within His church over political differences. The church should be a safe haven where unity takes precedence, and believers are welcomed with open arms, even when disagreements arise. By focusing on our shared faith and purpose, we can foster an environment of love and acceptance. This unity is a powerful testimony to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ's love. [24:08]

Colossians 3:12-14 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."

Reflection: Is there someone in your church community with whom you have a disagreement? How can you take a step towards unity and reconciliation with them this week?


Day 4: Character in Leadership
God values integrity and justice in leadership, emphasizing that the character of a leader is crucial. Unlike the political view that results justify the means, God calls us to embody qualities that He blesses, as outlined in Isaiah 32. As we navigate the election season, it's important to remember that our ultimate hope and trust should be in Jesus, the true Savior of the world. By striving to embody godly character, we can influence others positively and reflect Christ's love. [30:58]

Proverbs 11:3 (ESV): "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them."

Reflection: What qualities of godly leadership can you cultivate in your own life? How can you demonstrate integrity and justice in your daily interactions?


Day 5: Trust in Jesus, Not Politics
Our ultimate hope and trust should be in Jesus, the true Savior of the world. While politics can address certain issues, they cannot solve all our problems. Jesus offers salvation and transformation, providing a hope that transcends earthly concerns. By placing our trust in Him, we can find peace and assurance, knowing that He is in control. This trust allows us to engage with the world without being overwhelmed by its challenges. [18:36]

Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."

Reflection: In what areas of your life are you tempted to place your trust in politics or worldly solutions? How can you shift your focus to trust in Jesus and His promises today?

Quotes

"Now, you know, the Saddleback Church is a nonpolitical and a non-partisan congregation. We never ever, ever promote any candidate. That's just not our primary reason for existence. It's not one of the five purposes that God gave the church, to promote candidates. In the Great Commandment, Great Commission, there's nothing said there about politics." [00:03:38]

"How do you survive in election without losing your sanity or losing your sleep, or losing your soul? Specifically, what I wanna do this weekend is contrast how the values and priorities of Jesus are very different than the values and priorities of politics. I want you to see the difference because sadly, over the past few decades I've noticed that even people who have been Christians for a long time have been seduced into believing that politics rather than our Lord and savior Jesus has the answers to all the problems in our world." [00:04:37]

"Romans chapter 12 verse two says this, 'Do not conform yourselves to be like the people of this world.' Don't conform it. Don't don't just follow the crowd. Don't conform yourself being like the people of this world instead be transformed within by a new way of thinking. That's where the transformation comes. Then you will be able to decide. You will be able to decide, circle that phrase if you're taking notes, you'll be able to decide what God wants for you, and you'll know what is good and pleasing to him, and what is his perfect will." [00:06:56]

"Jesus says, my church matters more than anything else. Jesus, no, politics isn't the most important thing on this planet, my church is the most important thing on this planet. It's the only thing that's gonna last, politics' not. It's gonna last forever. Let me show you some scriptures about Jesus saying the most important thing on earth is the church. Ephesians three, 10, God's intent was that through the church his manifold wisdom will be made known, that the church is the way we know about God." [00:13:01]

"Jesus says, this, only I can save you. Only I can save you, I'm the savior of the world. I'm the light of the world. And only I can solve your worst problems. And He tells us that if we trust human beings, instead of trusting Him, we're gonna be severely disappointed. You know, when you look at all the problems in the world, every social problem comes back to a spiritual problem. It starts in the heart." [00:18:29]

"Well, there needs to be one place where there's a safe haven. And Jesus says this, in my church, unity gets priority over politics. He said, politics has no place in the church. Unity gets priority over politics. You bring politics in, all of a sudden, you're gonna divide your own congregation. You're gonna divide the body of Christ. Let me show you just a few verses on the importance of unity and how deeply God values that in his church." [00:24:01]

"Now let me just say, if you know more about politics than you know about the church, you're studying the wrong thing because politics aren't gonna last. No party lasts, no politic lasts, no leader lasts. The church is the only thing that's gonna last forever. And unity in the church is so important. God says it's so important. He gave some special instructions to pastors in Titus, chapter three, verses 10 and 11." [00:27:37]

"Politics says, results matter more than character in leaders. Results matter more than the character. This is a transactional value of politics. And when a leader says, you know, in politics it doesn't really matter what kind of character they've got as long as they're getting the job done. They say, it doesn't matter how you get it done as long as you get it done and you can give up your principles, and you can change the rules, and you can lie and you can cheat, and you can demonize and stereotype the opposition, and all these are okay because the ends justify the means." [00:28:49]

"Jesus says the character of a leader matters the most. The character of a leader matters the most. That God is more interested in who you are than even what you do. Let me say that again. God is more interested in who you are and what you're becoming, and what your character is developing than what you do. Now, there are many, many verses I could show you about this but I'll just give you one." [00:30:51]

"Now, I wanna just close this message by showing you the kind leader that God approves and blesses. It's in the profiles in Isaiah chapter 32. And in Isaiah chapter 32 we are given a prophetic picture of what it will be like when Jesus is the leader in the coming millennial reign. When He reigns for 1,000 years. Jesus is the leader. This is a prophecy about Jesus. But I don't wanna look at it from the prophetic angle. I want you to see the character qualities that are in Jesus, that God says that's what I value in a leader." [00:32:38]

"Father, I'm asking you and we're asking together, you said if any two agree as touching anything, it shall be done. I'm asking you to help us have a Christ-like mindset, to not get caught up in the way the world thinks but to realize what really matters is your church, your word, and our character, and that all these other things are secondary. Then all these other things aren't gonna last. But we will take our character with us, who we have become, the men and women we have become, we'll take into eternity." [00:39:46]

"I said earlier that politics and no politician can save us, but there is a savior who will save you. He will forgive your sins. He will give you a new purpose in life. He will give you a home in heaven. He will save you from yourself if you'll just open your heart to Him, say Jesus Christ, I ask you to come into my life right now. Help me to understand it more. I wanna follow you. I wanna step across the line. I wanna begin a new life today. In your name I pray. Amen." [00:42:40]

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Transcript
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