Table of Contents
The Call To Disciple Nations
In order to properly interact with government, it’s important to keep a Kingdom mindset. Let’s revisit The Great Commission. Have you ever considered the scope of that calling? It’s probably easer to think in terms of influencing individuals versus whole nations, and yet that latter is the call. What did Jesus say?
Matthew 28:19-20 Go you therefore, and teach all nations (make disciples of all nations), baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Clearly, one way we influence nations is through one-on-one relationships. By now, we’re all very much aware of the ripple effect and how 12 Apostles who were empowered by Holy Spirit, impacted the world. And that was without social media.
Realms of Influence
There are different realms of influence. Some like to call them mountains, realms of authority and so on. Here are some examples: the Church and market place, the military and entertainment industry, education, and yes, government. That means one component to discipling nations is in direct association with government, which includes holding actual positions at whatever level the Lord would lead.
1 Corinthians 12:18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him.
The Lord has a place for everyone, which answers the question: “Why would anyone want to get into politics?” It’s a calling. For some, it means holding an office, or at least serving others in those positions. They have a more direct role in shaping policy. And yet, because every disciple of Jesus has authority, each one may also contribute to shaping policy simply by praying. Jesus made us kings and priests (see Revelation 1:5-6; 5:10; 20:6), and whatever area of influence you have is a place of authority.
Interaction With Government Requires Faith
Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.
Finding our proper place requires faith, which means it is paramount to listen to what God has to say. Moreover, He has endowed each of us with certain gifts to enable us to fulfill our mission.
2 Peter 4:7-11 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to Whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
The governing principle of said gifts is love. Without it, we’ll never properly influence. Not to mention, we would be more apt to be offended by others who may say or do things inappropriately. Which also means we could be more reactionary than responsive.
Here are some questions to ask ourselves before interacting with anyone, let alone with those in authority. Will this glorify God? Will it please Him? Is this His will and what is He really saying? For example, when confronted with a situation that demands some sort of action, He may simply have you pray. On the other hand, He may have you become more involved by speaking directly to an individual. And if that is the case, what specifically would He have you say?
For those who use social media: beware! Before becoming a “keyboard warrior,” stop and seek God’s wisdom before sending your thoughts into cyber space. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and start asserting one’s opinions. At a minimum, would it be a good idea to ask yourself, is this going to benefit the Kingdom? What if you were to slow things way down, and ask the Lord what He would have you do? It could at least help you from having to dislodge your foot from your mouth later. This leads to our next point.
Proper Interaction Requires Holy Spirit
Matthew 10:18-20 And you shall be brought before governors and kings for My sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what you shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what you shall speak. For it is not you who speaks, but the Spirit of your Father Who speaks in you (see also John 16:13; Acts 1:8).
This is great news! We don’t have to do this on our own. The more submitted we are to Holy Spirit, the more influence we have. Correct solutions are much easier to come by. Coupled with the Fruit of the Spirit, we have been empowered to properly interact with others. For instance, when His peace is active in you, you are able to speak and act peaceably; and yet, without compromise.
Likewise, Holy Spirit will convey the Lord’s desires, which enable you to take appropriate measures that are pleasing to Him. It may not necessarily please those around you, but you’ll still have the right answers and best solutions. Anytime you do things His way, you do them in the way that is right in His eyes.
Proper Interaction Requires No Compromise
God’s Word should be so ingrained in us that compromise is never a consideration. His Word trains our senses to discern good and evil (see Hebrews 5:14), while the Lord is able to keep us from falling (see Jude 1:24). Read about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Daniel chapter three. It gives the account of how these three refused to compromise by bowing down to king Nebuchadnezzar’s idol, even when facing a fiery furnace.
God rewarded their faithfulness. He not only protected them from harm, His favor went before them and in turn, they were promoted. That’s an important lesson: God honors obedience. When tempted to compromise His Word because things get uncomfortable, remember these three and double down! God’s rewards far outweigh the trials.
As stated earlier, we don’t have to do it alone. As we submit to Holy Spirit, He enables us to stay the course. He is our Ability. Patience and longsuffering are vital to influencing nations, and we’ll talk more about that next time.
