Making disciples in a polarized world is like a dedicated architect building a cathedral in a landscape dominated by seasonal, temporary political billboards. The architect uses eternal blueprints (the Scriptures) to construct something beautiful and enduring (the Kingdom of God), carefully ensuring that the construction crew (the church) remains focused on the long-term, foundational work, rather than getting caught up in defending or tearing down the fleeting political advertisements that surround the building site.
If you know me at all (and if you've dug into this site), you know I'm a pretty conservative Christian guy. I believe, and try to live out the Bible, though I fall short more times than I care to admit. I can be a "bull in a china shop" at times, but over the years I've learned that grace and truth must go hand in hand and will work miracles in people's lives. By the way - one without the other leads to a watered-down gospel which simply cannot help or save anyone - no matter which side of that equation you lean towards.
In my work I rub shoulders with many people who would be politically and by life-style choice very different than me. If you asked them, I hope they would tell you I have always treated them with respect, kindness and grace. I have provided a listening ear and been a support if/when they've needed one. In that situation, my goal is always grace but clarity - I can love you, respect you and be a friend without agreeing with you.
My concern in the current political culture is that the church and some Christians have politicized the mandate to "make disciples" (Matthew 28). Social media is a cesspool of back and forth arguments that just a few years ago would have been worked through on the back porch sipping a Coke or Pepsi (see? I can be politically correct lol).
Today however, social media posts become the fodder of "us against them" and arguments often degrade into personality assassination.
Christian - you cannot do that.
Here are some quick thoughts with a summary graphic at the bottom:
Best Practices for Discipleship in a Polarized Age
- Prioritize the Gospel and Disciple-Making: Center the church’s mission (and your mission) on disciple-making and focus on eternal, not temporary, outcomes (Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 6:33, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, John 17:14-18, Philippians 3:20).
- Exercise Clarity and Wisdom in Reaching/Speaking: Teach/speak the whole counsel of God, differentiate between clear "straight-line" issues and debatable "jagged-line" issues, and prioritize expositional preaching (pastors). "Non-pastors" (you and me) can keep it straight in the same way - don't stray from the truth but share it with grace (Acts 20:27, 2 Timothy 4:2-4, 2 Timothy 2:15, Romans 14:1-6).
- Adopt a Counter-Formational and Humble Posture: Embrace a comprehensive counter-formation for the Kingdom of God, lead with grace and truth, and refuse political polarization and tribalism. (Romans 12:2, Philippians 2:3-5, John 1:14, James 3:17-18, Galatians 5:16-26, Ephesians 4:1-3).
- Engage Publicly as Disciples: Advance the gospel in every occupation and sphere of influence, seeking culture impact rather than "culture war," and practice deep listening in times of crisis. (Matthew 5:13-16, Colossians 3:17, 23-24, Titus 3:1-2, 8, Romans 12:18-21, Romans 12:15).
(feel free to download and use).
Sources:
- Excerpts from "18 Every Channel of Culture Gabe Lyons 20 In Pursuit of Public Discipleship Michelle Sanchez 23 Common Life Together Kaitlyn S - National Association of Evangelicals"
- Excerpts from "Bigger Fish to Fry: Politics and the Priority of Disciplemaking | Desiring God"
- Excerpts from "Book Reviews: Evangelicalism and Christian Nationalism - Crucible of Thought"
- Excerpts from "Gospel Clarity: Preaching Truth in a Polarized Age"
- Excerpts from "Politics, Conscience, and the Church: The Why, What, and How of Political Disagreement - Christ Over All"
- Excerpts from "Politics, Patriotism, and the Pulpit | Desiring God"
- Excerpts from "Practicing Politics as Former Fools - Desiring God"
- Excerpts from the transcript of the video "Social Outrage: J.D. Greear On Charlie Kirk, When to Speak Out, and Culture Wars" uploaded on the YouTube channel "Carey Nieuwhof"
- Excerpts from "Theonomy: Serious Theology, Serious Politics, Seriously Wrong - 9Marks"
- Excerpts from "Thirteen Principles for Pastoring Through Political Turmoil - 9Marks"
- Excerpts from "Voices: Not neutral, but independent - Baptist Standard"
- Excerpts from "Why Does John Avoid Political Issues and Politics? - Pastor John MacArthur Sermons - Grace to You Radio Ministries | Oneplace.com"
(Note: Just because I cite a source, doesn't mean I agree with everything said... it's a source.)