John MacArthur on Christian Politics, Nations, and Nationalism
Mar 8, 2024
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Exploring Pastor John MacArthur's evolving views on Christian Politics, Nations, and Nationalism. John MacArthur critiques Christian publishing in the 70s and 80s. Navigating the balance between Christian duties and civic involvement. Delving into the distinction between the Kingdom of God and worldly matters. Discussing the rise of Christian nationalism and challenges in modern society.
God's kingdom is separate from worldly political systems, as emphasized by John MacArthur.
The concept of Christian nationalism is dismissed by MacArthur, who underscores the distinct workings of the kingdom of God and earthly nations.
Christians are called to uphold righteousness in societal matters through biblical principles, despite the absence of Christian leadership in politics.
Deep dives
The Importance of Separating the Kingdom of God from Earthly Nations
John MacArthur emphasizes the need to differentiate the kingdom of God from political systems, stating that Jesus declared His kingdom is not of this world. He asserts that nothing in any nation, whether Christian or not, impacts the advancement of God's kingdom. MacArthur underscores the sovereignty of God in building His church, independent of worldly systems.
Rejection of Christian Nationalism
John MacArthur dismisses the concept of Christian nationalism, highlighting that the kingdom of God and earthly nations operate distinctly. He asserts that no political or social movements in any nation contribute to the progress of God's kingdom. MacArthur emphasizes that the church's mission is separate from political endeavors, aligning with Jesus' statement that His kingdom is not of this world.
The Role of Christians in Upholding Righteousness and Biblical Morality in Politics
While denouncing the idea of Christian nationalism, John MacArthur affirms the responsibility of Christians to uphold righteousness in societal matters. He encourages voting for candidates and policies aligned with biblical morality, emphasizing the need to support righteous options in political decisions. MacArthur advocates for engaging in civic involvement based on biblical principles, even if individuals in power are not Christian.
Navigating the Ethical Complexity in Political Engagement
John MacArthur grapples with the complexity of marrying Christian morality and political engagement, acknowledging the challenge of selecting candidates who match biblical standards while recognizing potential ethical shortcomings in politicians. He advocates for Christians to vote for candidates closest to upholding righteous principles, even in the absence of shared faith. MacArthur calls for a commitment to biblical morality within political discernment and civic participation.
Christian Nationalism and Post-millennialism
Christian nationalism is often associated with post-millennialism, a belief that the church can establish Christ's kingdom by influencing culture rather than awaiting His return. Contrary to this view, Scripture, particularly the book of Revelation, depicts a scenario of worsening conditions and persecution for believers, leading to Christ initiating His kingdom. The podcast emphasizes the discrepancy between Christian nationalism's expectations of a triumphant church reigning in worldly structures and the biblical narrative of escalating challenges and divine intervention.
Differentiating Church Mission and Civic Engagement
The discussion also highlights the need to distinguish between the church's mission, centered on the Great Commission and spiritual edification, and individual Christians' civic responsibilities. While the church's role is spiritual, extending beyond activities like lobbying or political endorsements, Christians are encouraged to engage in societal issues, recognizing the influence of Christian principles for the common good. The podcast underscores the importance of churches focusing on their spiritual mandates and Christians navigating civic involvement distinct from church activities.
Jon plays clips of teachings from Pastor John MacArthur through the years on topics like Christian Politics, Nations, and Nationalism. Recently John MacArthur linked Postmillenialism with Christian Nationalism and also said there was no such thing as Christian Nationalism. However, this was not a new teaching. For years, Pastor MacArthur has said there is no such thing as a Christian Nation. Some people have found his teachings on Christian political involvement discouraging. Yet, John MacArthur has made some very necessary separations between the Kingdom of God and conservative politics as well as the covenant with Israel and America's Christian beginnings. Jon explores Pastor MacArthur's teachings and offers up his own thoughts on how Christians should think about these issues and what questions to ask for future discussion.
