by Tim Isbell, May 2018
I've long wanted to address the topic of authentic Christian life as it's currently expressed in America's political and economic reality. But it seemed "above my pay grade." Fortunately, a couple of weeks ago, Dr. Mark Labberton, President of Fuller Seminary (where I attended), articulated it wonderfully in a talk at Wheaton College. It's worth the 10 minutes it takes to read: Political Dealing: The Crisis of Evangelicalism.
Dr. Labberton's words resonate with my understanding of God's assignment to live The Alternate Life in the middle of a broken world. This means living as a citizen of God's Kingdom while residing at postal addresses in worldly kingdoms.
My favorite Old Testament example is Daniel, who was a young teenager in Israel when Babylon overran his homeland. His captors forced him to leave home and serve in the administrations of a sequence of kings. Later, Persia took over that land, and Daniel served another series of kings. He died far from his native Israel. Through all the political turmoil and intrigue, Daniel gave fruitful service to one king after another, always without compromising his citizenship in God's Kingdom.
We also have the New Testament example of Paul and, of course, Jesus. Both Jews who grew up under the Roman Empire.Â
So, let's engage with the political discourse of our day while constantly remembering that Jesus is our ultimate example and Lord. At every step, he chose the most redemptive option, which is our model for living. Beginning at Pentecost and continuing to the present, God gives the Spirit of Jesus to live within every Christian, guiding and empowering them to live redemptively. In the process, we learn that God really is in control, despite all appearances to the contrary. This is what we believe. This is what we have heard. And this is what we have to offer our world.
Scripture teaches us how to live this life: Always be prepared to answer everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3.15)
Blessings,
Tim