33: Spiritual Formation and Politics with Kaitlyn Schiess
Sep 9, 2024
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Kaitlyn Schiess explores the fusion of faith and politics, emphasizing spiritual formation during election season. She offers tips for discussing politically charged topics at family gatherings and addresses the unique challenges theology students face in today's environment. The conversation humorously contrasts childlike faith with adult distractions and delves into how the Bible influences our understanding of social justice. Schiess highlights the need for empathy and contextual interpretations to navigate complex political discussions within faith communities.
Nations are held accountable for their treatment of foreigners, emphasizing the need for compassionate immigration policies reflective of biblical principles.
Church leaders should cultivate humility and curiosity in political discussions to foster understanding and promote constructive dialogues within their congregations.
Deep dives
Nations Judged by Their Treatment of Foreigners
The podcast emphasizes that scripture clearly states nations are judged based on how they treat foreigners. This principle is evident in various biblical texts, including the Noahic Covenant and the Old Testament law, reinforcing the obligation of modern nations, like the United States, to implement policies that reflect this divine truth. This foundational belief raises critical questions about the responsibilities of today's governments regarding immigration and hospitality. By highlighting this biblical truth, the conversation underscores the need for nations to create just and compassionate policies that honor this divine expectation.
Integrating Politics and Spiritual Life
The discussion addresses the challenges church leaders face in responding to the heightened political engagement among their congregations, especially during election seasons. It explores the tension between wanting to maintain spiritual integrity while also addressing relevant political issues from the pulpit. By creating an environment where political discussions are part of the regular rhythm of church life, leaders can ease the discomfort surrounding political conversations. This approach promotes a healthier dialogue within the community that encourages spiritual growth alongside civic responsibility.
Humility and Curiosity in Political Discourse
A key insight from the podcast is the importance of fostering humility and curiosity when engaging with differing political viewpoints. Rather than approaching conversations with a combative mindset, the emphasis is on understanding the motivations behind others’ beliefs and actions. This perspective encourages deeper connections and helps identify common ground, ultimately leading to more constructive dialogue. By asking open-ended questions, church leaders can better navigate complex political conversations, transforming them into opportunities for growth and understanding.
Scripture, Spiritual Formation, and Political Engagement
The podcast underscores the necessity of integrating spiritual formation into how individuals interpret and engage with scripture in relation to politics. It discusses the balance between acknowledging the political implications of biblical texts while remaining aware of the complexities involved in translating these implications into modern governance. Additionally, the conversation highlights that profound spiritual maturity is essential for interpreting scripture accurately, as it enables individuals to respond thoughtfully and responsibly to contemporary political issues. Ultimately, nurturing a rich spiritual formation within communities can cultivate healthier political engagement and decision-making.
Kaitlyn Schiess is an author (The Liturgy of Politics and The Ballot and the Bible) and podcaster (The Holy Post and Curiously, Kaitlyn). She joins us to talk about leadership during an election season and how spiritual formation is at the heart of our political engagement. We talk about everything from how to talk about politics at Thanksgiving dinner to how to preach when politics are involved.
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