Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons - Catholic Preaching and Homilies The Use—and Abuse—of Power
Sep 16, 2025
Discover the complex nature of power and its ethical implications in society. The discussion highlights the balance between embracing authority and ensuring justice. It emphasizes the importance of praying for leaders, while holding them accountable for their actions. Additionally, the conversation delves into how economic power should be intertwined with social responsibility, encouraging individuals to use their resources for the common good. Overall, the insights bridge faith and moral responsibility in navigating power dynamics.
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Power Is Not Inherently Evil
- The Bible does not simply demonize power or split the world into oppressors and oppressed.
- Catholic social teaching resists a one-sided Nietzschean view and sees power as potentially good.
Purpose Of Political Authority
- Political authority serves to secure tranquility, dignity, and peaceful conditions for human flourishing.
- St. Paul encourages prayer for rulers because their role helps create the conditions for a productive social and religious life.
Government Should Protect Religious Life
- One purpose of government is to protect religious liberty and provide conditions for salvation and truth.
- Political order should allow religion and learning to flourish so people can pursue knowledge of truth.