The Intersection of America's Political Climate and World Evangelization

Why the Present Political Climate in America is Relevant to World Evangelization

Have you ever considered the connection between the present political climate in America and world evangelization? It may seem like an unlikely pairing, but there are some significant implications to explore. In a recent sermon on the Great Commission, I shared a perspective that I believe is worth considering.

The Impact of Political Climate on Missions

As followers of Christ, we are called to spread the good news of the gospel to the ends of the earth. This task, known as world evangelization, is a vital part of our mission as believers. However, our present political climate in America can have both positive and negative effects on this mission.

On one hand, the political climate in America can create challenges and obstacles for those involved in missions. Policies and restrictions may hinder the ability to freely share the gospel in certain regions. Additionally, political tensions and conflicts can create an atmosphere of hostility towards outsiders, making it more difficult to establish relationships and share the message of Christ's love.

On the other hand, the present political climate can also serve as a catalyst for world evangelization. Throughout history, God has used messes and stresses to move His people out of their comfort zones and into missions. In times of political upheaval, believers are often forced to reevaluate their priorities and consider the urgency of spreading the gospel.

"God has used messes and stresses before to move His people out of their comforts into missions." - John Piper

Just as the early church faced persecution and oppression, we can draw inspiration from their unwavering commitment to share the gospel despite difficult circumstances. The political climate in America can serve as a reminder that our ultimate allegiance is to God's kingdom, not to any earthly power. It can fuel our passion for world evangelization and drive us to take action.

Biblical Examples of Political Climate and Missions

Throughout the Bible, we find examples of how the political climate of the time intersected with the mission of spreading the gospel. One such example is the early church in the book of Acts.

Acts 4:18-20

When Peter and John were brought before the religious and political authorities and commanded not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus, their response was powerful:

"So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, 'Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.'" - Acts 4:18-20

Despite the opposition they faced, Peter and John remained steadfast in their commitment to proclaim the truth of Jesus. The political climate of their time did not deter them from fulfilling their mission.

Acts 8:1-4

Another example is found in Acts 8, where we see the scattering of believers due to persecution:

"And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison. Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word." - Acts 8:1-4

Despite the persecution they faced, the believers continued to preach the word wherever they went. The political climate served as a catalyst for the spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem.

Applying the Lessons Today

So, how does this apply to us today? As we navigate the present political climate in America, we can learn from the examples of the early church and apply their principles to our own lives.

1. Stay rooted in God's Word

Just as Peter and John drew their strength and conviction from what they had seen and heard, we too must stay rooted in God's Word. By immersing ourselves in the Scriptures and meditating on His truth, we can find the courage and confidence to share the gospel in any political climate.

2. Embrace the call to missions

Regardless of the challenges and obstacles we may face, we are called to embrace the mission of world evangelization. The political climate in America should not deter us from fulfilling this call. Instead, it should ignite our passion and urgency to reach the nations with the message of hope.

3. Seek opportunities amidst adversity

Just as the scattering of believers in Acts 8 led to the spread of the gospel, we must seek opportunities amidst adversity. The present political climate may create difficulties, but it can also open doors for us to share the love of Christ in unique and impactful ways.

Ultimately, our focus should not be solely on the present political climate in America, but on the eternal kingdom of God. As we keep our eyes fixed on Him and His mission, we can navigate the complexities of the world with a sense of purpose and hope.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the present political climate in America has significant implications for world evangelization. While it may present challenges, it can also serve as a catalyst for our mission. By learning from the examples in Scripture and applying their principles to our lives, we can navigate the political climate with a steadfast commitment to the spread of the gospel. Let us embrace the call to leave behind the American mess and instead focus on the eternal impact we can make through world evangelization.