Church Politics: Pain-Free Decision-Making

Church Politics: Pain-Free Decision-Making

How is it that—throughout history—Christians have mixed politics with ministry? When Jesus entered this world, His people—the Jews—were loaded down with rules and regulations. The Pharisees were consumed with legalism. Yet, Jesus operated from the power of grace. The atmosphere was a tension between laws and grace, rules versus forgiveness, and regulations versus mission. Jesus met the woman caught in the act of adultery. The crowd would respond with stones. The Savior asks, “Who is without sin?” Grace won! She didn’t become perfect, but forgiven. Throughout history, spiritual people have wandered into legalism. In the Crusades, military might was the approach to “Christianize” the pagans. In Northern Ireland, Protestants and Catholics fought for years. Denominations build political structures—which attract politicians. Bureaucracy undermines mission. Denominational leaders get focused on social agendas…and lose their evangelistic edge, resulting in spiritual decline in the nation. Jesus was brought a Roman coin. His response? “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s and give to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:21). Many congregations follow Robert’s Rules of Order, as if Scriptural principles aren’t enough. The British historian Lord Acton once said, “Power tends to corrupt. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Jesus never called for a vote. He never considered majority rule. He said, “Seek first the Kingdom of God….” He prayed, “Your will be done.” This book is about decision-making God’s way. It works: for your life, your family, your church, and our world.