The new mind. Not politics

[soldier of light]

Scripture said that we should be renewed in our mind. This means obeying the Lord. You can't have the mind of Christ if you dont obey him. Politics, especially economics, is wrong thinking. Jesus said not to worry about the things of this life. Such thinking will make you unfruitful. Economics are worldly fears, complaints and strife. Its all evil and not of faith in God. Furthermore boasting in the economy is also sin according to James

Matthew 6:31 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?

James 4:13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” 16 But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

Matthew 13:22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.

2 Timothy 2:4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.

 

[Richard T]

I love your zeal and single-mindedness toward the Lord in avoiding the affairs of this world. Still, there has to be a balance for most with their work and Godliness.

One well known definition of politics is "who gets what, when, where and how. Economics is similar as it is about how society allocates scarce resources. Jesus had lots to say about these topics. The word tells us to allocate toward heaven, that is good economic and Christian advice. You are correct too that one need not worry about economics or politics but at the same time those fields remain important for some Christians to pursue. For instance consider the U.S. health care system. It sure would be great if Christian thinker could come up with a solution that would drive costs down and the level of care up. That is just one example of the need, there are of course many more.
Lastly, as I think I said once before Microeconomics is the study of how a firm operates. This has lots of implications for how much to produce, what prices to charge and all the strategies that can make one efficient and hopefully profitable. Society in general is far better off with those that create businesses. Such business including non-profits serve people, from food, to all types of services even Christian education, publishing, web hosting and design, programming etc. Yes, some of that is used for evil and those purposes a Christian should avoid, but much is done to serve others. Jesus never condemned the perfume maker, the fishing industry, cattle raising or most of the other economic things mentioned in the bible. Exceptions in the bible consist of not charging usury, putting a hand on the scale, (fraud) stealing, being in too much debt, cosigning, and buying or selling in the temple, or ministers or priests that overcharge for their duties (Like Eli and Samuel's sons).

I like 2 Timothy 2:4. However, is it designed primarily for Timothy and ministers as such or for all Christians. Secondly here is what one commentator says. "The literal interpretation, according to which the apostle or preacher should take no concern whatever in civil affairs, is contradicted by Paul’s own example; according to the precept here given, he is to avoid them only when they are a hindrance to the duties of his office." (Meyer's NT Commentary, see 2 Timothy 2:4 Commentaries: No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.). Paul after all was a tentmaker, Jesus too a carpenter. Paul did not even condemn those who employed slaves. So while II Timothy is correct we need to be focused on Christ, most men also have to work. Israel had 10% of their people as priests to God, the rest had secular duties. This means those who work should support those in ministry. Such support is vital but there is a balance and even secular work is a calling whether a shepherd, cook or anything else. Some might even suggest that if one is not in full-time ministry that if they are not working, they are prone to sin. I have heard it said that Americans live to work. Europeans work to live. The latter have it right. We work and engage in economic activity to serve God, give money so others can minister and serve others in our occupations.

II Thess 3:10
For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.


[Paul] went to see [Aquila and Priscilla], and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them, and they worked, for by trade they were tentmakers. Acts 18:2-3

 

[Aaron112]

Still, there has to be a balance for most with their work and Godliness.

The op is fine answering for himself , I think.

Still, this idea of balance looks like what we see thoughout the whole Christendom as compromise. i.e. cannot take part in it.

 

[soldier of light]

I love your zeal and single-mindedness toward the Lord in avoiding the affairs of this world. Still, there has to be a balance for most with their work and Godliness.

One well known definition of politics is "who gets what, when, where and how. Economics is similar as it is about how society allocates scarce resources. Jesus had lots to say about these topics. The word tells us to allocate toward heaven, that is good economic and Christian advice. You are correct too that one need not worry about economics or politics but at the same time those fields remain important for some Christians to pursue. For instance consider the U.S. health care system. It sure would be great if Christian thinker could come up with a solution that would drive costs down and the level of care up. That is just one example of the need, there are of course many more.
Lastly, as I think I said once before Microeconomics is the study of how a firm operates. This has lots of implications for how much to produce, what prices to charge and all the strategies that can make one efficient and hopefully profitable. Society in general is far better off with those that create businesses. Such business including non-profits serve people, from food, to all types of services even Christian education, publishing, web hosting and design, programming etc. Yes, some of that is used for evil and those purposes a Christian should avoid, but much is done to serve others. Jesus never condemned the perfume maker, the fishing industry, cattle raising or most of the other economic things mentioned in the bible. Exceptions in the bible consist of not charging usury, putting a hand on the scale, (fraud) stealing, being in too much debt, cosigning, and buying or selling in the temple, or ministers or priests that overcharge for their duties (Like Eli and Samuel's sons).

I like 2 Timothy 2:4. However, is it designed primarily for Timothy and ministers as such or for all Christians. Secondly here is what one commentator says. "The literal interpretation, according to which the apostle or preacher should take no concern whatever in civil affairs, is contradicted by Paul’s own example; according to the precept here given, he is to avoid them only when they are a hindrance to the duties of his office." (Meyer's NT Commentary, see 2 Timothy 2:4 Commentaries: No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.). Paul after all was a tentmaker, Jesus too a carpenter. Paul did not even condemn those who employed slaves. So while II Timothy is correct we need to be focused on Christ, most men also have to work. Israel had 10% of their people as priests to God, the rest had secular duties. This means those who work should support those in ministry. Such support is vital but there is a balance and even secular work is a calling whether a shepherd, cook or anything else. Some might even suggest that if one is not in full-time ministry that if they are not working, they are prone to sin. I have heard it said that Americans live to work. Europeans work to live. The latter have it right. We work and engage in economic activity to serve God, give money so others can minister and serve others in our occupations.

II Thess 3:10
For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.


[Paul] went to see [Aquila and Priscilla], and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them, and they worked, for by trade they were tentmakers. Acts 18:2-3

Politics are economic strife, complaints, worries and fears. None of that is faith. It's not seeking the kingdom as Jesus taught us to do. It's not obeying Jesus or his apostles.

 

[Richard T]

Politics are economic strife, complaints, worries and fears. None of that is faith. It's not seeking the kingdom as Jesus taught us to do. It's not obeying Jesus or his apostles.

Like religion, there are leaders in the flesh and in the spirit. Many are corrupt in politics and religion but you still need prayer and faith in God for the best outcomes.

 

[soldier of light]

Politics are by faith. One has to trust and pray to God for good leaders, policies and His divine help.

Politics are not faith. Faith is seeking the kingdom and God's righteousness and God himself takes care of us, not politicians. That's faith. You are referring to not seeking the kingdom but seeking a worldly nation instead. Politicians sin by complaining, worrying, sowing fear and causing divisions over the economy. Thats not faith. Im not going to argue. I'm just going to leave and enjoy my peace and joy in the Lord. Be blessed in God's truth and grace. Have a good day.

 

[Akita Suggagaki]

Politics, especially economics, is wrong thinking. Jesus said not to worry about the things of this life. Such thinking will make you unfruitful. Economics are worldly fears, complaints and strife. Its all evil and not of faith in God.

But we must pay due diligence.

Luke 14:28-30 For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you.

We go wrong when we let our partisan blinders lock us into a limited perspective.

 

[Richard T]

Politics are not faith. Faith is seeking the kingdom and God's righteousness and God himself takes care of us, not politicians. I'm not going to argue. I'm just going to leave and enjoy my peace and joy in the Lord. Be blessed in God's truth and grace. Have a good day.

Yes, God takes care of us by faith, and though that faith we can pray and believe for the best political decisions. God bless your day too.

 

[soldier of light]

But we must pay due diligence.

Luke 14:28-30 For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you.

We go wrong when we let our partisan blinders lock us into a limited perspective.

Both sides preach economic fears, worries, complaints, and strife. That is the exact opposite of faith in Jesus, and his word, and his kingdom.

Both sides boast in the economy as well but James said that boasting is sin. We don't know what will happen tomorrow. If God wills it then we will prosper. Not if a politician wills it.

 

[soldier of light]

Yes, God takes care of us by faith, and though that faith we can pray and believe for the best political decisions. God bless your day too.

Indeed. We pray for all good things that are according to God's will. We don't however follow politicians who preach fear, worry, complaints and strife. We pray and we are content with our daily bread. We don't follow politicians who boast in the economy either because that's sin. We don't mimic them or follow them. We follow Christ and mimic him. We seek his kingdom alone. There is no room for two kingdoms or two kings in our heart and mind. I myself am a king in Jesus kingdom because I follow the king of kings alone

 

[Akita Suggagaki]

Both sides preach economic fears, worries, complaints, and strife. That is the exact opposite of faith in Jesus, and his word, and his kingdom.

Both sides boast in the economy as well but James said that boasting is sin. We don't know what will happen tomorrow. If God wills it then we will prosper. Not if a politician wills it.

That does not absolve us from responsibility.

 

[soldier of light]

That does not absolve us from responsibility.

Our responsibility is to the kingdom of Jesus. Jesus said not to worry about the cares of this life but to seek the kingdom and God's righteousness and God will take care of us. It's hard to preach and to obey that command when you follow politicians who preach fear, worry, complaints and strife over worldly things. Our dissatisfaction is not with politicians but with God because he is our supplier not man. I will never dishonor God with complaints, fears, worry or strife over worldly things

 

[CLEEB]

I read in scripture that Christian citizenship is in heaven. That we were bought with a price and are not our own. To seek things above not earthly things. That we cannot serve two masters. To not be carnally minded which is what politics is. GOD says it is not up to man who walks to his own steps. Man is incapable of ruling himself. Christians have a king that GOD appointed , Christ. We are to submit to him only and not to men. Yes, while we are yet here in the flesh, pay taxes, keep the laws of the nation you are in, pray for people in human governments. Why, so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives among the carnal governments. There is no command to actually take part in these governments. Remember who GOD has allowed to be the god of this world. Satan currently rules in the kingdoms of this world’s darkness and Satan offered them all to Jesus in return for his worship. All the kingdoms and nations of this earth will be overthrown by Christ when he returns. If this happens in your lifetime which side do you want to be on ? Take a good read of human history and their governments. Human history is constant war and death. Even here in the U.S. your vote means nothing because once in power politicians do what they want, there is no true will of the people, it’s a mirage. The U.S. government accepts homosexuality, abortion, transgenderism, does not follow its own constitution and has destroyed our economic, educational and medical institutions. If you can’t see these things then you must not have been very well informed and kept a watchful eye on your government. My government is the kingdom of GOD that I seek first and only. We Christians have been called out of the darkness of the world and into GODS marvelous light. We should not go back into that darkness.

 

[CLEEB]

Scripture said that we should be renewed in our mind. This means obeying the Lord. You can't have the mind of Christ if you dont obey him. Politics, especially economics, is wrong thinking. Jesus said not to worry about the things of this life. Such thinking will make you unfruitful. Economics are worldly fears, complaints and strife. Its all evil and not of faith in God. Furthermore boasting in the economy is also sin according to James

Matthew 6:31 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?

James 4:13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” 16 But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

Matthew 13:22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.

2 Timothy 2:4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.

Politics is a filthy thing as it causes division even among people who profess Christianity. Satan causes this division. Luke 4:5-7 Satan said that all the kingdoms of the world were given to him. Who gave them to Satan ? Who would have that authority ? Satan is the god of this world, even Jesus called Satan the prince of this world. This is not GODS world until Jesus returns. Thy kingdom come thy will be done on Earth as it is in heave. Until Jesus returns this world and all its governments are under Satans control. If take part in them then you ally yourself with Satan. Learn the truth about the great honor the saints are given, Psalm 149 You, voter and participant in Satans governments , do you think if you do that you will have this honor. We are ambassadors of the nation we happen to be living in, not citizens, we represent our kingdom and shine as lights in the kingdoms of darkness. An ambassador doesn’t take part in the politics of the nation he is in but rather proclaims their replacement by the kingdom he is a citizen of.

 

[Akita Suggagaki]

Our responsibility is to the kingdom of Jesus. Jesus said not to worry about the cares of this life but to seek the kingdom and God's righteousness and God will take care of us. It's hard to preach and to obey that command when you follow politicians who preach fear, worry, complaints and strife over worldly things. Our dissatisfaction is not with politicians but with God because he is our supplier not man. I will never dishonor God with complaints, fears, worry or strife over worldly things

So we can renounce and shun any responsibility for this world?

 

[CLEEB]

So we can renounce and shun any responsibility for this world?

This world as we know it is coming to an end and if someone is indeed a Christian they have no part in it’s governments. This world is not going to be made a better place, it’s going to be replaced by something much better, the kingdom of GOD. I have chosen that kingdom of GOD and encourage all people who call themselves Christians to do the same. Human politics isn’t the answer, it’s actually been the direct cause of this world’s evils. Christians need to develop the attitude of Joshua, Joshua 24:15 Politics is a religion of the god of this world that deceives many people into thinking that human government will make things better when history proves this false and prophecy confirms it. There is coming a world government that will be accepted by All humanity except the elect of GOD , and people who are of a pro human government mind will embrace it to their ruin. The responsibility Christians have in this world is to love GOD and their neighbor and to keep themselves unspotted from this world. You can’t be unspotted if your up to your neck in it.

 

[CLEEB]

So we can renounce and shun any responsibility for this world?

How can you or I be responsible for a world that we have been called out of ? James 4:4 John 15:19 John 7:7 We had better renounce and shun responsibility for this world as we have been cleansed from being a part of it. Once cleansed don’t go back to wallowing in the mire.

 

[Akita Suggagaki]

Our responsibility lies in working for the Lord, whether it is in “looking after orphans or widows in distress” (James 1:27), giving to the hungry, the naked, visiting those in prison (Matthew 25:35-36), serving in our workplace (Colossians 3:22), or doing whatever we do (Colossians 3:23). And our motivation is that we have God’s own promise that our work “is not in vain” in the Lord “since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving” (Colossians 3:24).

 

[CLEEB]

Our responsibility lies in working for the Lord, whether it is in “looking after orphans or widows in distress” (James 1:27), giving to the hungry, the naked, visiting those in prison (Matthew 25:35-36), serving in our workplace (Colossians 3:22), or doing whatever we do (Colossians 3:23). And our motivation is that we have God’s own promise that our work “is not in vain” in the Lord “since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving” (Colossians 3:24).

What you have listed has nothing to do with politics. I do agree with them but I don’t do these things through government, I do them personally when I see a need and am able to help. These works cannot be ours but GODS work of love in us. Ephesians 2:10 Philippians 2:13 We do not earn salvation by any works of our own we are GODS workmanship. GOD planned our works in advance. Just as Jesus said his FATHER did the works, John 10:14 John 5:19,30 Jesus here sets the example for us that we also do no works, the FATHER does them. In this way GOD receives all the glory.