Jesus & Politics - The Foursquare Perspective

Episode 7 - IMPOSTER HEALERS

In this episode, we continue our mini-series on "Political Imposters" with a focus on "Imposter Healers." Our special guest is Heidi Messner, a Foursquare pastor from the North Seattle area (Everett) who has pastored in both progressive Humboldt County and conservative Everett, and served in elected positions on City Councils. Cultural Dynamic: We delve into the cultural and political dynamics that promise healing and reconciliation but fall short. Using the historical context of Gettysburg and Lincoln's vision of healing after the Civil War, we highlight the ongoing struggle for true national reconciliation. Despite attempts at political healing, our nation remains deeply fractured, pointing us to the need for a greater healer. Biblical/Theological Framing: We discuss how Jesus, as our ultimate healer, brings about true reconciliation and life. Unlike nations and governments that are intrinsically limited and exclusionary, Jesus' healing transcends boundaries and offers genuine restoration. We explore how scriptures reframe our understanding of healing and address political angst, emphasizing Jesus' role as the great mediator who reconciles God to humankind and humans to one another. Heidi and Andrew bring insights into how Jesus’ model of healing through servant leadership and listening contrasts with the coercive and control-oriented approaches of political systems. Drawing from Henri Nouwen's writings, we discuss the power of leading from brokenness and humility, and the importance of listening as a pathway to healing. Ideas for Action: We offer practical steps to help our communities see Jesus as the true source of healing. How can we embody servant leadership and create spaces for listening and reconciliation? We discuss resources and plans to foster a deeper understanding of Jesus' healing power in our lives and communities. For further reading and to ask questions, check out the links to "Postcards from Babylon," "Scandalous Witness," and visit jesuspolitics.org.

Episode 6: Jesus as Savior - IMPOSTER SAVIORS

In this episode, we kick off our four-part mini-series based on the imposters of the Foursquare Gospel: Savior, Healer, Baptizer with the Spirit, and Soon and Coming King. We begin by exploring "Imposter Saviors" in the political arena. We examine the belief that American politics is the ultimate solution to the world's problems and the dangerous conflation of flag and faith. We discuss how political movements promise salvation and mirror idolatrous tendencies, drawing parallels to the communal nature of today's superheroes like the Avengers versus the individualistic hero worship in our political system. We delve into the tendency to place messianic expectations on political leaders and how worldly powers draw us into a false narrative, overshadowing the true drama of history marked by Jesus, the cross, and the resurrection. Lee C. Camp's provocative insights from "Scandalous Witness" highlight the incompatibility of the nation-state with the Kingdom of God. We then reframe these cultural issues biblically, discussing the dangers of relying on political leaders for salvation and emphasizing the importance of trusting Jesus over worldly systems. We reflect on the early church's experience of navigating a world where Christianity wasn't yet entwined with government, contrasting with today's complexities. Finally, we present actionable ideas for engagement, including the nuanced topic of voting, and share personal experiences and perspectives on the tension between faith and political participation. We conclude with a thought-provoking quote from Brian Zahnd's "Postcards from Babylon." For further reading and to ask questions, check out the links to "Postcards from Babylon, [https://www.amazon.com/Postcards-Babylon-Church-American-Exile-ebook/dp/B07M5HJ5XB]" "Scandalous Witness [https://www.amazon.com/Scandalous-Witness-Political-Manifesto-Christians/dp/0802877354]," and visit jesuspolitics.org [http://jesuspolitics.org].

Episode 5 - Demonic Partisan Vitriol with Andrew Williams & Mark Chester

CULTURAL ISSUE: Partisan Vitriol We dive into the pervasive issue of partisan vitriol and the difficulty of navigating a two-party system. We acknowledge the understandable desire to keep politics out of church discussions, given how partisan politics can be wielded as a bludgeoning force. The binary divide forces individuals into an either/or stance, requiring them to adopt the identity of LEFT or RIGHT. This demonization of the opposing side creates an unsafe environment for policy discussions. However, this language reflects the preferences of those in power. BIBLICAL REFRAMING Andrew leads a discussion on the role of the church, the polis, and how biblical principles can guide us through the complexities of political partisanship. IDEAS: Truth over Tribe [https://choosetruthovertribe.com] We wrap up with practical ideas on how to prioritize truth over tribal allegiance, fostering a community that values honest discourse and mutual respect. Tune in for a candid and insightful conversation that challenges us to rise above partisan divides and seek the Kingdom of God in all aspects of our lives. QUESTIONS: Please head over to jesuspolitics.org [http://jesuspolitics.org]! to submit any questions or comments!

Episode 4 - The Kingdom with Phil Manginelli, Andrew Williams and Mark Chester

In this episode, we delve into the predominant theme from the recent Foursquare Connection workshop (moderated by Isaac): The concern that congregations today often lack a Kingdom mindset. We’ll explore why this issue is crucial and discuss how we can move forward in fostering a clearer vision of Jesus’ Kingdom among our communities. Discussion: Why don’t people have a clear vision of what Jesus’ Kingdom is about? How can we foster a better understanding of Jesus’ Kingdom in our congregations? Books Mentioned: * How God Became King [https://www.amazon.com/How-God-Became-King-Forgotten/dp/0061730602] by NT Wright * Truth over Tribe [https://www.amazon.com/Truth-Over-Tribe-Pledging-Allegiance/dp/0830784780?maas=maas_adg_80017C662BDD5F779E973BE7B6A060DE_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas] by Keith Simon and Patrick Miller * Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America [https://www.amazon.com/Losing-Our-Religion-Evangelical-America-ebook/dp/B0BPWRF4C5/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20XTGC93X9KE7&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.buucWfphJeep6So7XcICGYDxxVTPyB9PHp8F2knPo0tXKStQb8t2sI3sj07w0-2O.BOuj2zuzdd30Zqim1RPP8Iocb4bNxpXhYgUnt9qYRj0&dib_tag=se&keywords=Losing+our+Religion%3A+An+Altar+Call+for+Evangelical+America&qid=1716934320&s=digital-text&sprefix=losing+our+religion+an+altar+call+for+evangelical+america%2Cdigital-text%2C75&sr=1-1] by Russell Moore * The Patient Ferment of the Early Church: The Improbable Rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire [https://www.amazon.com/Patient-Ferment-Early-Church-Christianity/dp/0801048494] by Alan Kreider Submit Your Questions: We want to hear from you! Submit your questions and thoughts at jesuspolitics.org [http://jesuspolitics.org]. Join us as we continue to explore how we can embody the principles of Jesus’ Kingdom in our daily lives and within our faith communities. Let’s work together to understand and live out the true essence of the Kingdom of God.

Episode 3 - From Anxiety to Anger

In this episode of "Jesus and Politics: A Foursquare Perspective," we delve into the rapid societal shifts we're all experiencing, particularly focusing on the transition from anxiety to anger. We'll explore how the pastoral landscape has evolved since 2016, examining the growing intensity of political unrest, protests, and divisions. Introduction: Today, we are going to address the rapid shift that we are all experiencing. Cultural Analysis: Inspired by Mark Sayers' observations [https://youtu.be/M5FreDsw3yI?si=XQidFP_6w0i8nYz9&t=230], we’ll discuss the global shift from anxiety to anger. We'll analyze how this transition manifests in our communities and its impact on pastoral work. Biblical Framing/Reframing: The Bible does not shy away from contextualizing the work of God within specific political contexts. We’ll explore how God interacts with angry and anxious crowds throughout scripture. What scriptures or themes can guide us towards better approaches in these turbulent times? Ideas/Suggestions: - Helping People Cope: Strategies for addressing and alleviating anger in our congregations. - Resources for Settling Down: Practical tools and resources that can help people find peace. - Theological Convictions: How our Foursquare theological beliefs can provide a foundation for navigating these challenges. Join us as we offer insights and actionable suggestions for pastors and leaders to better engage with and support their communities during these times of heightened political anxiety and anger. Tune in to "Jesus and Politics: A Foursquare Perspective" for a thoughtful and faith-centered dialogue.