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This Week:
Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22 | Give Online | Online Connect Card
Weekly Drop (Newsletter) Sign Up | Kids Resources
Reflection Questions
- It’s not a question of whether Christians will be political. It’s a question of whether we’ll be political like Jesus. What are the practices and boundaries we need to faithfully engaging politics in a Christlike way?
- In Matthew 22, we are reminded that we bear the image of God – which gives us dignity, worth, and value in belonging to him. What are some of the ways we can honor the image of God in our political adversaries?
- In the message, Justin mentioned 4 political worldviews in the time of Jesus – pharisees, sadducees, essenes, and zealots – and how Jesus contrasted with each one of them. How do you see Jesus and His kingdom differing from the political powers and visions of our day?
- Theologian Stanley Hauerwas tells us that the Church – you and me – are God’s primary politic in our world. How might our lives together as a family shape a political vision that is compelling and different to the world around us?
Community Practice
Lectio Devina. If you’re unfamiliar, lectio devina is an ancient practice of slowly praying the Scriptures. This week, focus in on our passage for this series: Matthew 5:1-12. As you read through the Beatitudes, do so slowly and prayerfully. As a particular verse or phrase catches your attention, grab hold of it and pray from it. (Example: “Blessed are the merciful…” God I thank you for your mercy. God help me to be a person who exhibits that same mercy in my own life to those around me.) Read the passage daily and allow it to soak into your imagination and guide your prayers. Here’s a great article to help you understand Lectio Devina better!
Other Resources For Growth
You Version Bible App – online Bible and tons of reading plans
The Bible Project – videos, podcasts, and resources that help you understand and study the Bible
Daily Prayer App – a resource to guide your daily Scripture and prayer
Storied Narrative Lectionary – videos designed to help immerse you in the big story of the Bible
Prayer Course – an amazing free resource that helps you learn what prayer is – and how to do it