What Should Be My Perspective?

Several years ago I wrote a short study manual called, “Seven Pillars of Society.” In it I stressed how christians should allow their faith and values to guide them in their careers to the point that whole areas of society are impacted by the gospel. I considered how media, arts and entertainment, business, government, religion, and families can be changed as people of faith become leaders in their fields and express God’s standards. These pillars of society can greatly change by people living their faith consistently and openly. Simply put it is “lifestyle evangelism”. I still believe this today and have even become more convinced of this approach and it’s impact on culture!
Today in the Body of Christ, I have observed this approach turned on it’s head. Rather than allowing our christian standards and godly lifestyle to influence the “pillars of society”, we have begun to rely on the “pillars” to change society! Jesus responded to Pilate by saying, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest.” (John 18:36) I do firmly promote christian involvement in every area of society, especially in government! Unfortunately, today we are “fighting to prevent His arrest;” therefore, we are living as though His kingdom is of this world! It is not! Salvation and societal transformation will never come through political actions and influence. Rather societal transformation and influence come as, “The kingdom of this world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” ( Revelation 11:15)
I believe that presently theological divisions in the Body of Christ have been replaced by political division! We are hearing, “You may not have to believe the same as I believe about baptism, but you certainly must have the same political views!!” “You may not observe communion the way I do, but you must vote for the same candidate as I!” How sad! Yes, that is the climate in which we seem to live. I recently heard someone say that some Christians' behavior in the recent political cycle has set back our Christian message for a generation. I am sincerely concerned that they are correct. Let’s not lose our focus and message while being completely involved in all areas of society. Run for political office; but realize that your influence is your lifestyle and message not your political persuasion! Prayerfully consider your vote but realize societal change comes through a kingdom influence that is not of this world! May we not forget what we learned in Sunday School! “May Your kingdom come and may Your will be done on earth like it is in heaven.” (Mathew 6:10) Let’s live from a kingdom perspective!!! 

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