What's the Role of the Church in Society?
Sunday, September 12, 2010 at 7:30PM Happy Monday, everyone! I hope your week is off to a good start. If you missed church yesterday, we missed you! The bulletin for Sunday can be found here and the sermon can be found here. The music was fabulous and it was great having the choir back with us. Thank you for all you do!
As I mentioned yesterday in worship, I want your opinion on what the role of the church (or religion) should be in society. I'm asking because this Sunday's reading (from 1st Timothy) asks people to pray for their elected leaders. Specifically, it says:
"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity."
Of course, when this letter was written, Christians were not at all leading a quiet and peaceable life because they were a persecuted minority.
But now, that's no longer the case. Even though the church may not enjoy the place of privilege it once did, Christians are still the majority culture.
So, what should be the role of the church in society? Or religion, for that matter? Is it best to keep our mouth shut? Do we speak up? Speak our opinion when asked? Stay out of politics? Lead a secular life Monday-Saturday? What do you think?
Please leave me your comment. All you did to do is click on "comment", leave your name (or Anonymous), and state your opinion.
Thanks! Annie
Reader Comments (8)
Annie...it has been my understanding that "the church" has been politically involved since Jesus walked the Earth. Some Congregational churches in Boston even kept ammo in their steeples for use against the Red Coats during the Revolution.
I do not object to politics in the church when a balanced viewpoint is expressed, therefore, allowing the congregation to decide for themselves or, at the very least, an opportunity for sermon feedback so that an opposing view may be presented. Either way, I think some lively and thoughtful discussions could result.
I hope this helps. Sharon Wyman
Certainly we need to pray for for our leaders to have the wisdom and ability to work together for the benefit of the citizenry of our nation as well as to help them bring peace and prosperity to a world beset with poverty and tensions. The church as an institution, and in extension each pastor, has a responsibility to explore contemporary political issues in the context of biblical teachings. As such teachings at times are confusing and contradictory, so too are the political sides and issues we face today. The church or pastor does not have the right to tell people how to respond to political issues, though as a denomination the church may publicize positions agreed to by the general assembly and leadership. As long as one faith is determined that there can be no other faith (if you wish, substitute political party) that has the right to exist, we will see divides between the religions (and/or parties) continue to widen. Political activism is an individual choice both for members of a church and for the pastor. Activism seems appropriate given the example Jesus set of being an activist. What is not always clear is what is a wise course of activism. The pastor has the right to express a political personal opinion in exploring an issue in a way that also considers the right of others to take a different stance. As a congregation, we can disagree with a personal opinion, but need to remain open to the fact that divides, both political and religious will need to be bridged before substantive progress toward a more civil society can occur.
Jim's comment is so mindful and valuable. I do believe that citizens need to be involved in their government. When I was "discovering " the outer world in my 20's I operated as a "responder". I think due to the overpowering Germanic influence of family. However, as I reached closeer to my 28th year circumstances demanded that my life change. I resolved that I could no longer stand aside and be quiet. Astrologically this period equates to Saturn, the planet of maturity, returning to it's natal position in one's horoscope.
When I first visited Faith/Des Peres and heard Annie's sermons I felt a kinship. So, yes, I believe that churches should be relevant to Jesus' teaching by urging members to paricipate in the community, to be informed and consider all sides of the issues. The future of our country depends on this.
Thanks so much for your good comments. They are very helpful as I prepare for Sunday. I'm eager to hear what others have to say, too. And Sharon, I've never heard of churches keeping ammo in their steeples. That is priceless!
First, I thought our comments were going to be anonymous. In my opinion, the church must be a leader on the moral issues of the day. I have always appreciated a pastor that addresses the current issues facing the world, but not necessarily to tell me how to think, but instead, to remind me that I have a duty to be informed on the issues and to take a stand/become involved when I see injustice. In today's world, where there is so much (mis)information, it can be difficult to find the truth. The church must be the source of truth, a place where a civil discussion of the issues can occur and then to attempt to lead the world in the resolution of these conflicts. As Jim stated, Jesus certainly would have spoken out for those without a voice or when he saw injustice. The church must continue to do so today.
God is the lord of our lives, all aspects. I agree with Joe's statement; I appreciate/expect to hear about social issues from the pulpit, however, I do not appreciate being told how to respond.
First, I think this kind of dialogue among FDP members is terrific and definitely an extension of the face-to-face dialogue to which we are accustomed when at church in person. I firmly believe the church has a responsibility to be involved in the issues we face in society on a day-to-day basis. This is what Jesus taught his followers of those many years ago and those teachings are as relevant, if not more so, for us today. If we are not willing to speak up for peace, justice, harmony and what we believe to be right vs. wrong, who will? And do we want others to speak for us in what matters in our lives and the lives of our fellow man (and woman)? One of Annie's quesions was do we lead a secular life Monday - Saturday. My response is "no." We must take our faith and beliiefs with us each Sunday as we leave worship and carry and live with them throughout the week until we return the following Sunday for a renewal and reminder of the importance of that faith and Jesus' teachings.
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