I can't help but think that my vision of the future of politics is greatly intertwined with my (necessarily limited) understanding of eschatology. I lean progressive at the moment, I somewhat reluctantly expect that some sort of anarcho-socialism (at least as the felt experience of the average person on the 'ground') is in our future, and I can't imagine what the role of a politician would even be in Christ's Kingdom. But for all I know, maybe those in favor of monarchy have the right of it with Christ as King, now and forever. So I wonder what the true value of this book you've reviewed even is -- certainly it is unchristian to simply vote for the guy who promises to lower my taxes the most, but do the Gospels provide guidance or clarity on how we should approach the larger societal vision we are voting for or against?
From an address given in 2020 by a great man of God and Former professor of Constitutional aw at the University of Chicago and Utah Supreme Court Justice. "We live in a time of anger and hatred in political relationships and policies. We felt it this summer when some went beyond peaceful protests and engaged in destructive behavior. We feel it in some current campaigns for public offices. Unfortunately, some of this has even spilled over into political statements and unkind references in our Church meetings. In a democratic government we will always have differences over proposed candidates and policies. However, as followers of Christ we must forgo the anger and hatred with which political choices are debated or denounced in many settings. Here is one of our Savior’s teachings, probably well known but rarely practiced: “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44). For generations, Jews had been taught to hate their enemies, and they were then suffering under the domination and cruelties of Roman occupation. Yet Jesus taught them, “Love your enemies” and “do good to them that … despitefully use you.” - Love your Enemies - Dallin H. Oaks
From ChatGPT: Neo-Anabaptism refers to a modern movement within Christianity that draws inspiration from the traditional Anabaptist denominations-such as the Mennonites, Amish, and Hutterites-yet applies these principles in a way that is meant to adapt to contemporary society. This movement emerged primarily in the late 20th century and continues to influence some Christian circles today. The core ideas of Neo-Anabaptism involve: Peace and Nonviolence: Following traditional Anabaptist doctrine, Neo-Anabaptists strongly emphasize pacifism and nonviolent resistance, often opposing war and violence in all forms. Community and Simplicity: There is a focus on living in close-knit community life, often characterized by simplicity and a rejection of excessive materialism, much like their historical Anabaptist predecessors. Jesus-Centered Ethics: Neo-Anabaptists emphasize following the teachings and example of Jesus Christ directly, prioritizing the Sermon on the Mount and other New Testament teachings as a guide for living. Separation from State: They often advocate for a clear distinction between the church and state, opposing the use of political power to achieve religious goals, which can involve a critique of nationalism and a caution against the church’s alignment with political forces. Radical Discipleship: Followers are encouraged to live out their faith in radical ways, which involves a personal transformation that affects all areas of life, including social justice, economic practices, and personal ethics.
The thing that caught me most of guard was the reference to the redemption of the powers... I can understand that in the sense of the money, s*x, power sort of identification of the Powers, but a bit harder on the Powers of Heiser Deut 32 ilk. Would that be more hardcore than universalism? On the whole it's a good intro if you haven't engaged in their work before. I like the international examples, and it was great to have non-Western theologians name dropped to go and explore, but perhaps I wanted a bit more of that. I think laying out a case study with potential actions and pitfalls might have been interesting, although fraught with danger as you'd upset some folks with your recommendations.
An interesting book to drop in a year of globally significant elections. Might have to check it out. In fact, I'm quite curious now.
I can't help but think that my vision of the future of politics is greatly intertwined with my (necessarily limited) understanding of eschatology. I lean progressive at the moment, I somewhat reluctantly expect that some sort of anarcho-socialism (at least as the felt experience of the average person on the 'ground') is in our future, and I can't imagine what the role of a politician would even be in Christ's Kingdom. But for all I know, maybe those in favor of monarchy have the right of it with Christ as King, now and forever. So I wonder what the true value of this book you've reviewed even is -- certainly it is unchristian to simply vote for the guy who promises to lower my taxes the most, but do the Gospels provide guidance or clarity on how we should approach the larger societal vision we are voting for or against?
From an address given in 2020 by a great man of God and Former professor of Constitutional aw at the University of Chicago and Utah Supreme Court Justice.
"We live in a time of anger and hatred in political relationships and policies. We felt it this summer when some went beyond peaceful protests and engaged in destructive behavior. We feel it in some current campaigns for public offices. Unfortunately, some of this has even spilled over into political statements and unkind references in our Church meetings.
In a democratic government we will always have differences over proposed candidates and policies. However, as followers of Christ we must forgo the anger and hatred with which political choices are debated or denounced in many settings.
Here is one of our Savior’s teachings, probably well known but rarely practiced:
“Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44).
For generations, Jews had been taught to hate their enemies, and they were then suffering under the domination and cruelties of Roman occupation. Yet Jesus taught them, “Love your enemies” and “do good to them that … despitefully use you.”
- Love your Enemies - Dallin H. Oaks
The Christian power god and principality Christ.
Please explain neo-anabaptist.
From ChatGPT:
Neo-Anabaptism refers to a modern movement within Christianity that draws inspiration from the traditional Anabaptist denominations-such as the Mennonites, Amish, and Hutterites-yet applies these principles in a way that is meant to adapt to contemporary society. This movement emerged primarily in the late 20th century and continues to influence some Christian circles today. The core ideas of Neo-Anabaptism involve:
Peace and Nonviolence: Following traditional Anabaptist doctrine, Neo-Anabaptists strongly emphasize pacifism and nonviolent resistance, often opposing war and violence in all forms.
Community and Simplicity: There is a focus on living in close-knit community life, often characterized by simplicity and a rejection of excessive materialism, much like their historical Anabaptist predecessors.
Jesus-Centered Ethics: Neo-Anabaptists emphasize following the teachings and example of Jesus Christ directly, prioritizing the Sermon on the Mount and other New Testament teachings as a guide for living.
Separation from State: They often advocate for a clear distinction between the church and state, opposing the use of political power to achieve religious goals, which can involve a critique of nationalism and a caution against the church’s alignment with political forces.
Radical Discipleship: Followers are encouraged to live out their faith in radical ways, which involves a personal transformation that affects all areas of life, including social justice, economic practices, and personal ethics.
@@KingoftheJuice18 Once again, thanks Juice! I'm beginning to like you. 😅 I use ChatGPT as well.
The thing that caught me most of guard was the reference to the redemption of the powers... I can understand that in the sense of the money, s*x, power sort of identification of the Powers, but a bit harder on the Powers of Heiser Deut 32 ilk. Would that be more hardcore than universalism?
On the whole it's a good intro if you haven't engaged in their work before. I like the international examples, and it was great to have non-Western theologians name dropped to go and explore, but perhaps I wanted a bit more of that. I think laying out a case study with potential actions and pitfalls might have been interesting, although fraught with danger as you'd upset some folks with your recommendations.
@@BillyBoy66 You're welcome. But only beginning? 🤣😇
@@KingoftheJuice18 😂Ha!