Christianity vs. Politics

[PassionFruit53]

Dear friends,

I would like to ask, if someone took a particular political school of thought as direct result of their Christian faith.

For instance, Christian socialism or Christian anarchism or Liberation theology.

Why did you believe in your articular political theology? And is it a problem for the separation of church and state doctrine?

I would be interested to hear your reply.

Thank you in advance!

 

[AgogTheorist]

I don't know if I follow a particular political school of thought, but I definitely have socialist leanings which have been strongly influenced by my faith. More specifically, I see Jesus as being a strongly political figure with a desire to tear down social boundaries and work for justice and equality -- I see Jesus as a shining example of what humankind can be, and have come to share many of his ideals, including many of those regarding politics.

I don't have a problem with the separation of church and state because to me it is the ideology itself that is worthwhile, with Jesus being a key proponent of it. In the past, a lack of political/religious separation has led directly to social hierarchy and inequality, which ironically is directly counter to Jesus's ideals. I think the vast majority of his political views work just fine on a purely humanistic level, and that it's this humanistic level which will be more influential in today's social climate.

A very popular book around here and in my church is "The Politics of Jesus" by John Howard Yoder. I don't remember all that much from it, but if you're interested in a very influential Mennonite perspective which deals directly with this topic, you could give it a try.

 

[PassionFruit53]

I don't know if I follow a particular political school of thought, but I definitely have socialist leanings which have been strongly influenced by my faith. More specifically, I see Jesus as being a strongly political figure with a desire to tear down social boundaries and work for justice and equality -- I see Jesus as a shining example of what humankind can be, and have come to share many of his ideals, including many of those regarding politics.

In the Bible, I also had the impression that Jesus was a socialist. He taught pople that money isn't everything, yet kind actions is. And the bible condemned people who cheat workers and oppress poor people.

Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have rusted, and their rust will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up for treasure for the last days. Behond, the wages of the labourers who mowed your fields, which you have kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.

—(Jam. 5:1-6)​

 

[AgogTheorist]

Do you mind if I ask what's sparked your interest in this topic? Just curious.