120: The politics of the gospel with Michael Jensen
Jun 18, 2024
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Michael Jensen discusses his book 'Subjects and Citizens', exploring the intersection of theology and politics through the gospel. They delve into Christian perspectives on affluence, income inequality, and the role of human governments, emphasizing the importance of engaging in politics from the lens of Jesus' lordship for a politics of mercy and justice.
The gospel shapes Christians' approach to politics, encouraging unity and grace in discourse.
Understanding 'politics 2.0' emphasizes acknowledging Jesus as the ultimate ruler in political engagement.
Deep dives
The Gospel's Influence on Politics
The podcast discusses Michael Jensen's new book, 'Subjects and Citizens,' focusing on how the gospel shapes Christians' approach to politics. Jensen, drawing from personal experiences and theological reflections, highlights the need to view politics through the lens of the Gospel's grace. By emphasizing the implications of the Gospel for political engagement, Jensen aims to address the division within the church over political matters and encourage a deeper unity grounded in gospel convictions.
Politics 1.0 and Politics 2.0
Jensen distinguishes between 'politics 1.0' and 'politics 2.0,' highlighting the importance of understanding the political implications of proclaiming Jesus as Lord. While 'politics 1.0' refers to temporal politics shaped by human wisdom, 'politics 2.0' emphasizes acknowledging Jesus as the ultimate ruler. By reconnecting Christians with 'politics 2.0,' Jensen aims to guide them in addressing political issues from a gospel-centered perspective to foster unity and purpose.
Balancing Realism and Idealism in Government
The discussion delves into Romans 13, emphasizing the need for a realistic, rather than idealistic, approach to government. Jensen cautions against expecting perfection from human governments and highlights the role of political order in restraining evil and promoting societal well-being. By urging Christians to maintain a critical yet hopeful stance towards political engagement, Jensen emphasizes the importance of upholding peace, love for neighbors, and respect for governing authorities within a gospel-centered framework.
Politics might be something that we shy away from because it’s so divisive—particularly in the current climate. But the gospel shapes us in the way we relate to our neighbours, and it gives us a fundamental lens to use in thinking about how we relate to one another and how we engage in political discourse.
In this episode of the CCL podcast, Peter Orr speaks to Michael Jensen about his new book, “Subjects and Citizens”, which aims to helps Christians think about politics in light of the gospel.
For an edited transcript and show notes, visit https://ccl.moore.edu.au/resources/podcast-episode-120/
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