Doing Politics

CROWD Church Livestream

Timestamps

0:00 Intro

8:11 Navigating Political Rhetoric

12:39 Biblical Precedents of Civil Disobedience

16:33 The Story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego

21:31 Christians in Politics

23:09 Voting with a Servant Heart

26:36 The Role of Servant Leadership in Politics

28:27 The Responsibility of Voting in a Democracy

33:16 The Power of Prayer in Political Change

48:44 The Dual Nature of Anger

49:53 Loving Your Enemy

Show Notes

Welcome and Introduction

- Matt Edmundson introduces the Crowd Online Church session focused on politics.

- Introduction of co-hosts: Will Sopwith and Jeff Beynon.

Upcoming Changes to Crowd Church

- Announcement of a shift to hybrid services starting 6th October.

- Information about the transition available on Crowd Church's website and YouTube.

Discussion on Politics and Christianity

- Clarification that the discussion will not endorse specific political parties.

- Focus on how Christian theology should shape political views, not vice versa.

God's Sovereignty and Authority

- Examination of Romans 13:1-2 on respecting governing authorities as instituted by God.

- Discussion on the historical context of Roman rule during the scripture's writing.

Balancing Faith and Political Authority

- Exploration of how Christians should respond to laws conflicting with scripture.

- Reference to biblical examples like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

Prayer and Political Leaders

- Emphasis on praying for leaders, regardless of personal political preferences.

- Discussion on the impact of prayer in historical political changes, such as the end of apartheid.

Christian Engagement in Politics

- Encouragement for Christians to join political parties and influence from within.

- Debate on whether Christians should always vote for Christian candidates.

Navigating Political Anger and Division

- Reflection on the role of anger in political discourse and its ineffectiveness.

- Encouragement to love and pray for political opponents, following Jesus' teachings.

Practical Political Involvement

- Suggestions for Christians to engage in politics through voting, advocacy, and community service.

- Importance of focusing on policies that benefit the broader community.

Conclusion and Next Steps

- Announcement of next week's panel discussion on rest.

- Reminder of the upcoming change in live stream timing to 7:00 PM.

- Closing remarks and gratitude for audience participation and co-host contributions.