First I’ll reference the Bible, then I want to talk about politics and why we shouldn’t talk so much about politics. Especially right now! How hypocritical!
Luke 20:22 Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” 23 But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, 24 “Show me a denarius. Whose likeness and inscription does it have?” They said, “Caesar’s.” 25 He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” 26 And they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent.
This is the only time I can think of that Jesus even mentions the local government. This and he says, “my kingdom is not of this world”.
Want to knock out 50% of the potential missional impact you could have? Get passionate about politics, watch a whole bunch of FOX or CNN and then post your politically leaning ideas on your Facebook wall.
You might as well make the decision that you are on mission to Republican people that don’t know the freedom they could have in Jesus. Or that you are on mission to Democrat people that don’t know the freedom they could have in Jesus.
Think about it.
I know you think you are right. Everybody thinks they are right or they would think something else.
BUT I AM TELLING YOU, YOU ARE FOCUSED ON THE WRONG KINGDOM, WAGING THE WRONG WAR.
If you want to make a difference for the kingdom of God, be mysterious politically. LOVE ALL PEOPLE as Jesus loved them. Make a table that is filled with black friends, white friends, gay friends, autistic friends, rich friends, poor friends, just a random sampling of whoever happens to be on your city block or suburban cul-de-sac. This won’t happen by accident, you must seek it out. When acquaintances become friends you will find yourself defending your friends, standing up for them, and loving them well. If you take loving action to support and love your friends and nobody knows about it on Facebook you are doing well! Don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing!
But seriously. Think about which kingdom ultimately matters. Who even talks about the greatness of Babylon or Rome these days? We are an alternate kingdom. We are citizens of the kingdom of God. Lay aside your political passions and pick up some tacos and fill your table. Pursue people that are different than you, and listen to them on your patio rather than debate them on your iPhone.
Don’t limit your missional influence because of your political idolatry.
We can be a breath of fresh air. We can be the light of the world. Let’s be better!
Mike Jarrell oversees coaching, vision and training at Narrow Road Communities in Harrisburg, PA. He also serves as director of the Creo Collective.