This chapter explores the significance of providing pastors and leaders with a community of practice, where they can engage with different perspectives and learn how to navigate political controversy through a biblical lens. It emphasizes the need to support and equip pastors facing backlash and unpopular decisions, mentioning the Matthew 5'9 fellowship as a sponsor of the podcast that promotes similar supportive communities.
Some churches seek to exploit political controversy for self-serving ends. But many more churches instinctively avoid controversy, and steer away from topics that may reveal differences. In this episode, Curtis is joined by Chuck Mingo to explore a different route: treating this upcoming election season as an opportunity for spiritual growth. They make the case that the same spiritual muscles that get built in politics apply also to marriages, parenting, employment and other areas of discipleship. Curtis and Chuck also talk about the practicalities involved: what should happen on Sunday morning (and what shouldn’t); the top rookie mistakes made when first trying to engage in politics; how the posture of the “wounded healer” is necessary for pastors; and much more.
Find out more about the Undivided course and ministry here.
Pre-order Chuck’s book (written with Troy Jackson), Living Undivided: Loving Courageously for Racial Healing and Justice