On Non-Violence VIII: Greg Boyd / Romans 13 & Government

Understanding the Distinction between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of the World

The podcast episode discusses the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world. The speaker emphasizes that our focus as followers of Jesus should be on manifesting the character of God's kingdom through self-sacrificial love and putting on display the unique values of the alternative kingdom. While the government plays a role in administering justice, Christians are called to submit to the authorities, pay taxes, and pray for those in leadership. However, it is crucial to remember that our ultimate allegiance should be to Jesus and his teachings, rather than getting caught up in the divisive and sometimes idolatrous realm of politics.

Rejecting Two Ethical Systems and Embracing Nonviolence

The episode challenges the idea of having two ethical systems, one for personal life and another for government involvement. The speaker asserts that Jesus' teachings on nonviolence and enemy love apply to all aspects of a follower's life, including their roles in government. The historical interpretation of Romans 13, which suggests that violence is acceptable in government service, is critiqued. Instead, the focus is on living out the principles of the kingdom of God, which are rooted in love and nonviolence, even in the face of conflict or opposition. The speaker encourages individuals to wrestle with the tension between being a follower of Jesus and engaging in government roles, always leaning towards the teachings and example of Jesus.

Reading the Old Testament Heroes in Light of Jesus' Revelation

The podcast explores how to interpret the actions of Old Testament heroes who held high government positions. The speaker emphasizes that their actions need to be understood within the broader context of God's accommodation and stooping down to work with humanity in their limited understanding. It is crucial to recognize that Jesus is the culmination and fulfillment of all previous revelations and should be the primary lens through which the Bible is read. While the actions of Old Testament heroes may have been permissible within that context, the full revelation of Jesus and his teachings, including nonviolence and enemy love, should guide our understanding and application of scripture. The speaker reaffirms the importance of prioritizing Jesus' teachings and role modeling in order to navigate the tension between faith and government involvement.

The Distinctness of the Kingdom of God

The podcast emphasizes the importance of not engaging in violence and putting on a different hat, as it goes against the distinctness of the kingdom of God. The speaker addresses objections about Christians serving in governmental and military roles. It is suggested that Christians should not serve in roles that contradict their kingdom convictions, as it confuses the distinctness of the kingdom of God. It is also argued that being a follower of Jesus doesn't necessarily make someone better at governing. Trusting God's sovereignty is crucial, even in situations where the outcome may not make common sense.

Separation of Church and State

The podcast discusses the separation of church and state and how Christians should not conflate their political theories or socio-economic views with the kingdom of God. It is emphasized that good and intelligent people can have different opinions on political matters. Christians are encouraged to focus on the kingdom of God and not get overly involved in political polarities. The podcast highlights the importance of manifesting the beauty of the kingdom by living out its principles, especially during times of increased racism and division in society.

Van City Church Audio

On Non-Violence VIII: Greg Boyd / Romans 13 & Government

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Deep dives

Understanding the Distinction between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of the World

Rejecting Two Ethical Systems and Embracing Nonviolence

Reading the Old Testament Heroes in Light of Jesus' Revelation

The Distinctness of the Kingdom of God

Separation of Church and State

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Van City Church Audio

On Non-Violence VIII: Greg Boyd / Romans 13 &amp; Government

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Understanding the Distinction between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of the World

Rejecting Two Ethical Systems and Embracing Nonviolence

Reading the Old Testament Heroes in Light of Jesus' Revelation

The Distinctness of the Kingdom of God

Separation of Church and State

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On Non-Violence VIII: Greg Boyd / Romans 13 & Government

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