Church Is Messy: Bonus Episode - Politics

Church is Messy

What are two topics we've been told to avoid talking about if we don't want an argument? Religion and Politics. Rick and Svea dive head-first into the issue of politics. Take a look at the list of topics below and you'll see there isn't much they didn't touch on.

Be sure to check out the resources so you can be informed as you make your own determination about how to proceed as an ambassador of Christ in the arena of politics.

Additional Resources:

• Church Politics Podcast
• The Ballot and the Bible
• And Campaign
• The After Party

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• 00:00 Intro
• 00:53 Context: we tend to think there are good guys and bad guys politically, but things can be more confusing than that.
• 02:53 There is so much tribalism, power-grabbing, and moral superiority in US politics today.
• 03:55 We are NOT saying "don't vote," "don't register with a political party," "don't go to school board meetings," but we ARE saying to participate as an ambassador of Jesus.
• 06:37 We should be humble about our opinions while still trying our best.
• 07:51 Good Christian citizens or Christian Nationalism
• 11:13 Is the USA a "Christian Nation"?
• 14:36 There isn't a perfect political candidate--Jesus isn't on the ballot. So what do we do?
• 21:38 Should we evaluate politicians based on their worst mistakes? Are there really good or bad people?
• 21:55 Are there only 1 or 2 options on how to accomplish all various political ends, or are we a bunch of broken people trying to figure things out?
• 27:51 Should we automatically vote for Christian candidates? Do they have character and competency for that role?
• 30:09 Rick discusses additional resources that can provide helpful insights to those who want to learn more about how to engage in politics as a believer.
• 37:04 Closing prayer for wisdom and guidance as listeners move through the upcoming 2024 political season.