Don’t Be Afraid
— Monday, March 22nd, 2010 —
“Now these three abide: anger, outrage, and fear—and the greatest of these is fear.”
That’s not in the Bible.
But sometimes I wonder if I think it is.
The United States House of Representatives just passed a health care reform bill that I and lots of other Christians opposed. Such legislation should concern us. There are some bad consequences for the weakest and most vulnerable among us, principally unborn children. But should it also concern us that so many of us are talking today about how afraid we are?
Is it a problem that some of us who are tranquil as still water about biblical doctrine and ecclesial mission are red-faced about Nancy Pelosi and the talking heads on MSNBC? Is it a problem that some who haven’t shared the gospel with their neighbors in months or years are motivated to vent to strangers on the street about how scary national health care will be?
It’s not that I think Christians should be disengaged from issues of justice (God forbid!). It’s just that I wonder if we wouldn’t represent Christ and his kingdom better if we did it with a certain tranquility of Spirit, a tranquility that signals we’re not afraid of the rise and fall of temporal kingdoms and their policies.
The words “do not fear” and “don’t be afraid” are among the most common phrases on the lips of our Lord—in both Old and New Testaments—and on the lips of his angelic messengers. I wonder why?
Isn’t it because “perfect love casts out fear” (1 Jn. 4:18)? Isn’t it because we “did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear” (Rom. 8:15)? Isn’t it because the Spirit prompts us not to “fear anything that is frightening” (1 Pet. 3:6)?
In fact, the Holy Spirit through King David, in a context far more frightening than that of our own, calls us to “fret not yourself because of evildoers” who will soon pass but “trust in the Lord and do good” (Ps. 37:1-3).
Here’s why this matters.
Most of us don’t preach “hellfire and brimstone” sermons anymore, on hell and God’s judgment. But hellfire is exactly what Jesus said we should fear. “And do not fear the ones who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul,” our Lord tells his disciples. “Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matt. 10:28).
Jesus not only teaches this; he lives it. Jesus doesn’t fear the crowds attempting to stone him. He doesn’t cower before Pilate. He isn’t afraid of the Sanhedrin. He’s confident and tranquil, even when he’s being arrested. But when he faces drinking from the cup of judgment of his Father, he sweats drops of blood.
If we were half as outraged by our own sin and self-deception as we are by the follies of our political opponents, what would be the result? If we rejoiced as much that our names are written in heaven as we do about such trivialities as basketball brackets, what would be the result?
So if what you’re afraid of is a politician or a policy or a culture or the future of Western civilization, don’t give up the conviction but give up the fear. Work for justice. Oppose evil. But do it so that your opponents will see not fear but trust, optimism, and affection.
“So now faith, hope and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (1 Cor. 13:13).
Fear God and, beyond that, don’t be afraid.
104 Responses to “Don’t Be Afraid”
Trackbacks
- Despite Obamacare Passing, God Is In Control « Bought by the Blood
- For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” (Rom. 8:15) « Absolute Truth in a Relative Generation
- give up the fear « native pilgrim
- Christian Fear and Health Care – Justin Taylor
- A little perspective « Gospel Lens
- Obamacare: “Be Afraid…?” « …thorns compose…
- carotidbattery.great » Do Not Fear
- *Bang Bang Bang* “Congress! What are you doing in there?” « APOCALYPSE SOMEDAY
- Christian Fear and Healthcare « Windham Baptist Church’s Blog
- Christian Perspective on the Health Care Reform Bill « The Golden Tablet
- Don’t Be Afraid: Thoughts in Light of the Health Care Vote » Evangel | A First Things Blog
- Health Care, Fear and the Christian Life – David Westerfield > Weblog
- Christian Fear and Healthcare Reform « HIS PEACE UPON US
- Christian Fear is the Fear of God « Tracts & Treatises
- “give up the fear” « Cookinthebooks's Blog
- Healthcare Concerns and Faith | Christ and Pop Culture
- Bethlehem Chapel » a timely word on health care
- A Joy Beyond Measure…
- Political Fear « Choose Today
- House Passes Health Care Bill: Response from a Reagan Republican
- Health Care and the Gospel « Matters Pertaining to REDEMPTION
- Moore on the Health Care Bill « LET US RUN
- Upsidedown Living: Love (1 Thess 4:9-12) « Growing Godly Generations
- Christian Fear and Health Care - MattPickwell.com
- Links and thoughts on healthcare « living as dead
- Spiritual Tramp » The Reformation
- Dr. Moore and how we should view the health care issue… « Nathan Millican's Blog
- Russell Moore on Health Care Reform… « Longing For Home
- Health Care Reform and Fear Mongering « Muddy Boots
- Conscious Dreaming – Wake Up Your Dreams! | Published articles
- In Case You Missed It : The Best Blogs I Read Last Week « Church Planting for the Rest of Us
- Sycamore » Blog Archive » Link It Up
- Don’t Be Afraid… :: Baptist Messenger of Oklahoma
- Treading Grain » Post Topic » Around The Horn – 3.25.10
- Faithful and True « My Big Green House
- Calm Words in a Storm of Fear « The Shepherd's Study
- Weekly Hit List #11 | ::valenciafamily.org::
- >Health Care Reform and Fear « Pilgrims & Pastors
- Health Care Bill « Frank Gil
great word. thanks!
Great word and reminder! Thanks!
Dr. Moore -
Your calm and confidence always assure your readers. Thank you again for presenting a timely and thoughtful response.
Thanks also for not acting like God isn’t sovereign anymore =)
In Christ,
Andy
@Andy,
I agree 100%. Now for us all to take our outrage and fear and exchange it for love and action remembering that nothing has taken God by surprise.
Can’t say enough good things about this post. Truth brought out with a peaceful spirit is the best response we could give to the events around us. The world needs the Rock of Christ in a climate of sinking sand.
Whether the issue is the economy, health care, or terrorist attack, we should not fear…greater is He who is in us than he who is in the world. No government, party, or policy can save us from either Satan or ourselves- only Jesus can.
This is excellent. Thank you for the reminder! In Him,
Eden
Thorns and Myrtles
edenellis.wordpress.com
Great reminder, Dr. Moore. Thankful for your wisdom.
Thank you Dr. Moore for your reminder that we should not fear anything or anyone but God and that we should be tranquil, taking things in stride in a sense.
I don’t know if this is the place to ask but i do have a question regarding the this bill.
How will this effects students of private schools, such as Southern (and its undergraduate program Boyce College)?
I heard that one of the aspects of the bill was the government taking over private loans, but Southern only accepts private loans. If the bill goes through, will private schools, like Southern Seminary, close themselves off to outside loan options or will they allow government loans?
Dr. Moore,
This is also a good reminder of where we should place our hope. We should be engaged in justice, politics, and we certainly must fight for the unborn, but our hope cannot be in legislation (or legislators). Our hope must be in Christ and His Kingdom.
Thanks for your thoughtful and convicting words on fear.
Thank you for a calm and sound voice to bring us back to biblical reality! To help us bring our focus back on Christ, where it should stay.
Agreed, and would add that we ought to pray for the destruction of the wicked. They clearly need to fear that hellfire.
@Corey Reynolds, I hear ya brother!
What a witness it would be to our coworkers if they saw our speech today marked by hope and peace, instead of being swept up into the culture of complaint that is so pervasive! Thank you for offering both comfort and a challenge in this post.
Excellent thoughts! I wrote a similar piece during the media frenzy yesterday about how politics won’t save America, Jesus will - the gospel, to be more precise.
Thanks, Dr. Moore, I needed that!
Dr. Moore, this was a particularly good word from you! You’ve always got interesting things to say on important subjects. Keep up the good word!
I agree with most of the blog, but I’m opposed to the doctrine that says the Father condemned the Son. That’s not Biblical. Jesus was a sweet aroma to the Father. Sin was destroyed by Jesus. Jesus was not afraid of being destroyed by the Father. The cup of which Jesus spoke was probably death in the Garden of Gethsemane. Hebrews says Jesus was heard because of His reverent submission.
@orthodoxdj,
Rom 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.
Rom 5:9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.
1Th 1:10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
Isa 53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed.
Brother, we deserve the wrath of God for our unrighteousness. Jesus saved us from the wrath to come. Our chastisement from God was laid upon Christ. What was our chastisement? The wrath of God.
If you are orthodox then you believe in substitutionary atonement. He took our place, received what we deserved. Thats mercy. And he gave us what we didn’t deserve. Thats grace.
Its a dangerous thing to water down the atoning death of Christ.
just sayin…
@orthodoxdj,
FWIW, Dr Moore didn’t actually say the Father condemned the Son. He said “when he faces drinking from the cup of judgment of his Father.” I don’t want to put words into Dr Moore’s mouth (he may not agree with me entirely), but I personally think the difference is very important. You’re absolutely right: the Father was eminently pleased with the Son’s obedience, and for that reason raised him and highly exalted him (Phil. 2:9-10).
However, “the cup” to which Jesus refers in Gethsemane (Matt 26:39) is clearly a reference to the “cup” of the wrath of God - an image used in various parts of the OT to describe the withheld anger and judgment of God against the world, brim-full and waiting to be poured out in its fullness (Psa. 75:8; Isa. 51:17-22; Jer. 25:15-29). In Gethsemane, Jesus was fully aware that he would be “drinking” the cup of God’s judgment, that is, bearing the full brunt of the destruction we (that is, the world) deserve. I think it is inaccurate to say the Father was “punishing” the Son: the NT affirms that Jesus was, after all, completely innocent, and he did what he did willingly, out of obedience to his Father’s will, in a way that pleased the Father. But he was nevertheless taking the consequences of sin on himself.
So perhaps what we can say is that in the death of Jesus, God was fully judging our sin - making “Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21).
The wages of sin is death. Jesus died. In that sense, he took on the punishment for sin.
If it is argued that eternal punishment in Hell is the just reward for sin, then we ought to conclude that Jesus went to Hell for all eternity for our sins. The Bible never says that.
As for Romans 1, notice what the wrath of God is: being turned over to a depraved state. God’s wrath is the ratification of our evil choice to worship anything other than Him. That is the essence of Hell.
As for the Gethsemane issue, I’m not dogmatic about my view, and it took me a while to be convinced of the one I offered above. Nevertheless, it’s the view that makes the most sense to me.
Fear? No. Principled, strong opposition to the takeover of one-sixth of America by the government, essentially moving us toward socialism and forcing me to pay for the murder of babies whenever the Executive Order is rescinded? Yes. There is a lot of sadness and anger, not fear. This is a day that will live in “infirmary.” I for one do not believe we are overreacting. I think Southern Baptists missed a great opportunity to speak against socialism when we dismissed a resolution against it at last year’s convention. America did not want this, but our leaders passed it anyway. There is a time for righteous indignation. The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.
@Rick Patrick,
The only thing needed for evil to triumph is for God to do nothing. God has done something (2 Cor 5). Evil can not triumph. Let us rejoice!
Peace be with you.
Good thoughts Patrick,
I’m also not seeing fear. Rather, I’m seeing a people who are slow to wake up to an Earthly reality and slowly considering how to properly respond. I am sure that I am not alone in being reminded of my own pride, vanity and self-righteousness when I see and hear leaders like our President and the Speaker of the House gloat over what they think they’ve accomplished. The arrogance of Obama and Pelosi appears so ugly yet so personal because I’ve seen it before. I’ve seen in our pulpits and our pews where we have elevated the art of elevating ourselves by trumped up comparisons to others. I’ve seen in our own Southern Baptist Zion where, in the not too distant past, we were describing ourselves as the world’s last great hope. But most devastatingly, I’ve seen it in my own heart.
So the first action is for me to repent…but the second action is for me to act and act with the coolness of one who while knowing how the story ends, has the heightened sense of what is at stake at the current point in the story.
So, we do not fear. We do not rage against the day. But by all means that are properly available to us, we do not stand by.
JRM,
Of course the “good men doing nothing” quote is attributed to Edmund Burke. Granted, from an eternal perspective, God has overcome evil by “dying for all” (2 Cor. 5:15) and by “becoming sin for us” (2 Cor. 5:21). I agree with you that evil cannot triumph in the ultimate sense. I am happy in Christ and rejoice in my salvation. Thank you for wishing me both joy and peace. I wish the same for you.
My understanding of this eternal triumph, however, does not mean that I am to look the other way when I encounter temporal human injustice. We are, after all, called to be salt and light in a world that needs to hear Godly wisdom. At times, that may require a rebuke. Believing the recently passed bill will jeopardize the lives of the unborn and the health of my family, not to mention our heritage of limited government and a freedom loving citizenry, this is a really big deal.
No, it’s not as big as the gospel. It’s not heaven and hell. And it’s not eternal in its significance. But it is worthy of my attention, my dissent, my voice and, as long as we remain a democracy, my vote. In short, while I agree with Dr. Moore that we should not be fearful about this, I do think it’s okay for people to be bummed and even enraged. Even Jesus was a man of sorrows, overturned tables and called people “snakes” and “thieves.” He felt this way not out of fear but conviction.
Though I understand the message you are portraying I think it is wrong of you to call the leaders evil. Does it not say in the Bible that all leaders are chosen by God?
Romans 13
1Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you.
Futhermore I am offended that a leader of a church would make so clear what their political stance is. Not every Christian is a Republican and it should not be the place of a preacher to persuade people to be of that same party. Though I realize that’s not what the purpose of this message is preaching that you should be against “evil/Democrats” makes it seem like you are telling everyone to be a Republican and if you aren’t you are evil.
These are just my feelings. Thanks for taking time to read this. God Bless.
@Ashley, EVIL? He called the leaders evil? I read it again I can’t find it. So I’ will call them evil. Just because Gov’e is ordained of God doesn’t mean a leader can’t be evil. Was Hitler or Stalin? Yes. Anyone who wants to kill the unborn is evil.
Sorry, I know you mean well, but it doesn’t wash.
@Ashley,
God ordains leadership that we demand or permit or wish for. Idolatry and sin causes spiritual blindness, which leads to enslavement and captivity. Our nation’s spiritual blindness is the true source of corruption and yes, of wicked leadership. We need to repent and turn to God. Fortunately, He is gracious and “does not treat us as our sins deserve”. Let us not mistake his grace and patience for indulgence.
@Ashley,
Luke 3:19 But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip’s wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done,
Luke 3:20 Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.
The greatest prophet, John the Baptist, had the ministry of preparing the way for Christ. But, he did not consider it against his God-ordained purpose to comment on the political evil of his day. A “political stance” against murder and sexual perversion is legitimate.
@Clark” So if what you’re afraid of is a politician or a policy or a culture or the future of Western civilization, don’t give up the conviction but give up the fear. Work for justice. Oppose evil. But do it so that your opponents will see not fear but trust, optimism, and affection.” He clearly called the Democratic party evil in that passage. I know leaders can be evil but the whole point was a leader of a church shouldn’t say such things because it is unfair to the congregation. To compare the leaders of America to Stalin and Hitler is completely unjust. They are not alike in anyway. Also in the Bible it says it is not our place to judge but rather God’s. You calling people who have abortions evil is judgmental and against God’s will. Not every Democrat believes in abortion in the first place and even if they do “let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” God is not of any political party so why should Christians have to be of one?
@Derek What exactly is your main issue with the Democratic party? Who says they are evil? You? Why are you the judge of that. Like I told Clark God isn’t a member of any political party so there is no reason for Christians to think He is and to persuade other Christians to be of that party. It is only ignorance that makes you believe Democrats are evil. You’d be surprised to find how many are actually Christians.
@Greg I will just tell you exactly what I told the others. GOD IS NOT A MEMBER OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY NOR THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY. He is not a member of any party. He just wants us all to live for Him. Being against a policy is perfectly fine but you have to remember not every person of a party believes what everyone else does. To generalize and call people evil is wrong, it is also judgmental and we know as Christians we are to hate the sin not the sinner.
@Ashley,
I didn’t say anything about Democrats. But I must say, the Democratic party has made a deal with the devil when you look at how closely they are aligned with abortion groups. Christians who believe in other aspects of the Democratic platform really need to speak up and demand change within, because this is a cancer and it taints everything. That’s how compromise works. It blinds and binds us. Furthermore, I believe that God will hold all Christians accountable for compromise of this nature, whether they are Republican, Democrat or anything for that matter. Once upon a time, many “Christians” claimed to be against slavery, but actively supported causes and parties that supported its existence. Do we believe that God will ignore this either?
@Derek Do you really believe God cares what political party we join? If so I honestly think he would be for the Democrats because they are usually poorer, sicker, and the ones that as you have so clearly pointed out need Jesus. Wouldn’t He be for them because He wants to see them come to God and not be looked down upon by so called Christians? If abortion is the only thing you have against Democrats you need to get over yourself, it’s not like a Republican never had an abortion before.
@Ashley,
As I already stated, God will hold Christians of all political stripes accountable for compromise. I didn’t let Republicans off the hook at all, please read my comments again and more carefully this time. But yes, I think all of our engagement in this arena matters to God.
It is also unfair of you to assume or imply that conservative Christians don’t care about the poor. As a matter of fact, there was a landmark study conducted several years ago by a non-religious, liberal academic named Arthur Brooks. The study showed that religious conservatives donate more time and money to charitable causes than liberals do. Look it up, his findings are described in great detail in his book “Who Really Cares?”.
I’m not a big fan of the situation either, but more than that, I’m saddened to hear how many Christians use this as an excuse to get all in a tizzy.
Jesus stepped into the room saying, “Peace be with you.” Where’s that in our Christianity… where’s that in mine?
-Marshall Jones Jr.
Thank you for such insight. I appreciate your insight. May God Bless Your Ministry.
This is a powerful and timely word.
A hearty Amen!
Thank you for this empowering, strengthening, and encouraging word.
Thank you Russell for your encouragement to stop being afraid, and to remind us that it is in God we trust.
2 things though:
1. I am not sure if you have fully comprehended what is happening in the Bible each time we hear an angel or the Lord saying “Do not be afraid”. It is primarily stated because such a visit is SO unusual that the natural inclination is for people to be petrified in fear. Seeing angels is not the ordinary run-of-the-mill experience for people, & it created much fear. However, it is true that perfect love casts out all fear.
2. As an Australian, I have been used to a social security/health system which most Americans would label as socialist. My problem with it is not enshrining evil in what is or is not allowed under the system, it is the greater sin of Christians being content with the system, and causing us to think our government will save the poor. Maybe some emphasis on how individual Christians should be continuing to care more for the sick and dying neighbors as your new system is implemented. No system is perfect. Allow this one to stimulate your ministries to develop in new ways because there will be a better base support for people now.
How sad that we allow our focus be removed from the truths of our Lord. Yes! We should voice our convictions but if we humble ourselves, pray, seek His face, turn from our wicked way, then…
It’s nice to hear a voice of hope and faith in the midst of the clamor and hand-wringing. I must confess, I’ve gotten a little caught up in it myself. Thank God that His kingdom is not of this world, and it’s increase will never end (Isaiah). Thanks for the encouragement and for calling a spade a spade!
Great post. Being from the UK, I’m a bit confused by the opposition to socialism in the US. Over here socialism is generally seen as a type of politics that revolves around helping others who are not as privileged/have had less opportunities than you, rather than keeping everything for yourself (which only seems fair). E.g. the welfare state and the national health service.
I understand the opposition to the health care bill on the abortion front, but I thought that part of the bill was rescinded. Can somebody tell me why American Christians are so strongly opposed to a bill which is designed to help the most vulnerable, as surely we would all want that (not a rhetorical question, can anyone provide a concise answer)?
@Sam,
Look up Julian the Apostate on Wikipedia. Scroll down to the part about “Charity”. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_the_Apostate
Who should care for the poor? You say “surely we would all want” our government “to help the most vulnerable.”
Our churches, yes. Our government? Why do you assume Christians should want that? $20 to World Vision will probably be used much more efficiently to combat poverty, while also proclaiming the Gospel, than if it goes to Uncle Sam in higher taxes.
I just wish Christians gave more to Christian charity. If the Church did her job, we wouldn’t need socialism. And God would get the glory.
Great post!
Join me and let’s sing:
1) “My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
CHORUS: On Christ the Solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
2) When darkness veils His lovely face,
I rest on His unchanging grace;
In ev’ry high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil.
3) His oath, His covenant, His blood
Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my hope and stay.
4) When He shall come with trumpet sound,
O may I then in Him be found,
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.”
(The Solid Rock - by Edward Mote)
Powerful lyrics for such a time as this.
God help us to be faithful!
I can’t help but notice that all of the posted comments are positive. If you wish not to post my comments feel free to reply directly to the e-mail above.
I fully understand why political conservatives, state’s rights backers, libertarians John Birchers, tea baggers etc. would consider the current health care reform evil and deserving the wrath of the Wall Street gods. (little g)
However, I can find nothing in the teachings of our Lord Jesus (red letters in the back section of the Bible) that would support these views. My studies have revealed a loving, kind saviour obsessed with the plight of the poor and undeserving. Please help.
David
Recovering Baptist
@David,
Many Christians - self included - do not believe that large, central bodies of government can administrate things like health care in an efficient or effective manner. Robbing Peter to pay Paul also promotes mistrust, abuse and it punishes people who actually do work hard to provide for their loved ones. We’re already at a level of taxation that makes a lot of people wonder if it even makes common sense to even be a small business owner. So we believe that the net result of this legislation will translate to worse health care for all Americans.
Unfortunately, the uninsurable, poorest and sickest among us will be affected the most negatively. America provides better health care for its poorest citizens than any nation has in the history of the planet. Uninsured patients receive tens or thousands of dollars in free health care every day in our great nation.
True compassion is not merely the intention or pretense of caring for the poor. Many of us look at the history of socialized medicine and of large, centralized bureaucracies and frankly, the track record is devastating. It breeds apathy and lack of accountability (ever visit a DMV?), not charity or effectiveness or efficiency. We believe that will translate to a sicker, sadder nation. So much of the angst out there is rooted in compassion for our children and their children, who will be the first generations in America to receive a declining health care system.
All of that said, I agree completely with Dr. Moore that fear and anxiety do not honor God. We must trust Him at all times, in all circumstances. We must act with dignity, grace and integrity, not rage and pessimism.
@Derek,
You state “America provides better health care for its poorest citizens than any nation has in the history of the planet.”
That is a very large claim! Even if it were true (which from my view from another part of the world I seriously doubt), at least half of your voted officials in Washington have decided that there may be another way of providing the means of caring for your more vulnerable citizens’ health care.
@David,
My wife is a nurse and has routinely cared for patients who are incredibly self destructive – heroin, alcohol, overeating, etc – and it is painful to see how little some of these folks appreciate how much treasure, time and talent has been spent on them. They are never denied and my wife’s hospital is barely making it. These deadbeats receive world class health care, pay nothing, offer not even a grumbled “thank you”, walk out and buy more drugs.
We are an incredibly generous nation and it makes me truly sick to hear lectures from pampered, self-interested politicians who know absolutely nothing of which they speak. The horror stories that these politicians tell leave out critical facts and are intended to manipulate our emotions.
Your mistake is that you assume that politicians have pure motives here. No doubt SOME politicians have at least some motivation to improve health care. But has it occurred to you that if they have control over many aspects of health care, they hold the keys to powerful, unilateral and unalterable decisions made about your health care that will generate more kickbacks for their campaign coffers and help them land a million dollar a year job on K-Street (where all the lobbyists work)?
@David, i completely agree with you. these people are disagreeing because they are conservatives not for any real christian thinking. the poorest never received he best healthcare and to say so is an absolute LIE. this bill is expensive, but it was absolutely needed. comparing the DMV to a national healthcare system is a childish sensationalist comparison. to disagree with the bill is one thing and there are arguments to be made, but you don’t take into account the lives that will be SAVED by the bill. what i am saying is that i will gladly pay more taxes if it equates to saving lives. its bad that the system will probably still be corrupt, but you take the bad with the good. look at this situation in terms of lives, not politics. just because your a fundamentalist christian does not mean you have to be a fundamentalist conservative, no matter how much fox news and your representatives tell you. especially on this topic.
Thank you for this reminder! It truly is comforting to be commanded to Not be afraid! It is my hope that we christians can use our passion for the wrong doings of the political industry to get the Truth out. If we argue about the things that are happening, we MUST follow it with the TRUTH…Is it really the governments job to provide healthcare or is it the job of the family or church? When the world sees whose responsibility it really is based on Biblical teaching maybe they will see Christ!
since our time on earth is a fleeting moment compared to eternity in the afterlife, its ok to be jerked around by Washington? (since this seems to be your view) its okay not to fight and oppose tooth and nail that which we do not support? this is bad but who really cares because were all just trying to go to heaven? this is irresponsible. you’re compromising your own christian teachings. you’re shirking your obligation as a human being to take care of other human beings. you oppose the bill religiously based on parts about abortion and so you did not want it passed. you would rather save the lives of a very few children then the probable millions who will be saved from financial ruin and im sure what will amount to millions of cases, death? its simple math, if the bill had not been passed more people would have DIED. …and just so we’re clear, the bill allots money for abortion only in cases where the mothers life is in danger, in cases of incest, and for victims of rape. NOT just anytime someone wants an abortion as glen beck and the other right wing propagandists would have you think. (not to imply that there isnt propaganda on the left)
@riker long, i completely agree with you. amen dude
Thanks, Dr. Moore, for your words. I have been thinking since Sunday, about the darkness of the bill, as it relates to the sanctity of life, as well as the loss of our freedoms. But Scripture says in John 1:5, that the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. The issue that is most important here is not the reform of health care, but the most important truth that we are to proclaim and share the power of the Redemption. God is sovereign, and nothing can change or alter His plan. Time will tell what that plan is for our great country, but the darkness will never overcome the Light. That was settled “At the Cross.
Great perspective! In Christendom we are known more for what we boycott rather than for our sharing of the unfailing love of Jesus Christ found in the gospel. The kings heart is like channels of water to the Lord!
Pastor Ryker
Amen. thank you!!!!!!!!!
Russell:
Joe Blackmon referred me to this blog so you have him to thank.
I liked what President Obama said: “We are a country who will not scale back on its aspirations”; nor give into cynicism.
Lincolnesque, I thought, a reach for the higher angels of our nature.
As for the politics of Abortion I do wish you and Dr. Mohler would take a good honest look at professor Gorney’s exhaustive look at the politics of it all.
In 08 she took a strong look at how it played out in the Dakotas and found that contrary to Focus on the Family and others, when evangelicals looked the issue strong in the face, they are not where you and Richard Land and others say they are.
As a matter of integrity, give her an honest Look.
Well.
Appropriate comments, I suppose, considering that so much mis-information has been spread (which is now being exposed), and hate has been stirred up.
The nation has been treated to the spectacle yesterday of protestors spitting on a black congressman, yelling out the ‘N’ word at two black congressmen, and the ‘F’ word to Rep. Barney Frank.
And that was only outside the chambers of Congress.
Inside, a Representative from Texas screamed out ‘baby-killer’ at Rep. Bart Stupak.
And all this culminating all the spectacle of the tea-party crowd shouting down anyone who tried to speak at any town hall meeting all over this country.
So now you call for calm.
I thank God for it.
The call is better ‘late’ than ‘never’.
And you are write about the angelic messengers bringing blessings of peace on earth and good will to men. Imagine. That is what God intended for us, when Christ was incarnated in that stable in Bethlehem.
So, thank you.
Your message of calm was, is, and will be needed.
God bless you and keep you peaceful in the Lord Christ.
As an Australian evangelical I have sometimes wondered at the damage that is possibly being done to the cause of the gospel in US by the apparent close link between evangelicals and right-wing politics. On the issue of universal health care, it seems to me that someone who desires the best for all people would want at least a basic level of healthcare to be available to all. I would have thought that this would be the larger matter to support, rather than quibbling over theoretical side-effects (like whether government money might be spent on abortions). I for one am glad that we have a strong public health system in Australia. It seems a matter of social justice that we do.
@Richard Blight, This was a great post! There are many evangelicals (particularly within the Black church tradition) who agree with these semtiments.
@Richard Blight,
For all the talk about the close linking between the “right” and many evangelicals, a lot of left wing religious types are being given a free pass. This is a double standard that needs to be addressed.
Notice how you are championing and applauding the outsourcing of charity to the government? Do you see how you are injecting your own brand of politics, even as you castigate those who don’t share your convictions?
Charity is the mandate of the Church, not the government. I happen to know a chaplain in Australia and he has described to me how the authority of the state limits his ability to share the Gospel, even with those who are on a deathbed! He says it is getting worse every day. This is exactly what happens when we give the State overarching authority in matters of charity. Even if I agreed with you that government can do health care better than the private sector and churches could, we have to examine some of the corrupting effects that happen when we link arms with government authorities, especially those who are hostile to the Gospel.
We are truly a severely troubled people right now! We SHOULD have “righteous indignation” and act accordingly. However, as Oswald Chambers said, “true inner peace is impossible unless it is received from Jesus”. We “cannot WORRY our way” out of the problem, but must confer with Jesus Christ because there is no confusion in Him”. When we are faced with difficulties as we are facing these days, we must listen to Him when He says, “Let not your heart be troubled. . .neither let it be afraid”.
Inside, a Representative from Texas screamed out ‘baby-killer’ at Rep. Bart Stupak.
Yeah, the truth hurts, don’t it L’s.
Oh, and it’s not just the good guys who were doing the yelling. Those who supported the bill made sure to paint everyone against it as a fear mongering, hate mongering racist. Pot/kettle
In Reply to Derek:
I don’t know the details of the situation enough to know what you mean by: “a lot of left wing religious types are being given a free pass. This is a double standard that needs to be addressed.” Perhaps I don’t really get the label of ‘left-wing religious types’? I would have thought that more ‘liberal’ Christians might be more supportive or accepting of abortion because they follow the lead of the society. That should be challenged, but of course the underlying problem is a lack of acceptance of the Scriptures as God’s Word.
When you say: “Notice how you are championing and applauding the outsourcing of charity to the government?” I would say that you have an interesting view of who is responsible for ‘charity’. After all the word means ‘love’ , and I don’t think Christians can or should try to keep a monopoly on it (although we ought to be leading the way!). I believe that the role of government ought to be to uphold justice, maintain the peace and care for the needy - and that is what I pray for regularly. Do you suggest it is wrong for the US government to pursue any policy which involves ‘love’? I personally think that what they have done to care for the needy (both onffshore and onshore) is a very good thing - may they do it more! Taken to the extreme, your idea would mean Christians ought to oppose the government doing anything that was initiated by Christians. An example might be universal education.
In the English and Australian tradition we have often seen good ideas begun by Christians taken up by government (like universal education, anti-child labour laws, the abolition of the slave trade, universal access to health care). We usually see this as a good thing (despite the occasional frustrations of chaplains). On the other hand, the thing that never can or will be taken over by the government is promotion and proclamation of the gospel of Jesus. We tend to focus our energies on that great work.
@Richard Blight,
So in Australia it might be different, but here in America, especially since a raft of books were written by left wing evangelicals like Jim Wallis and Tony Campolo, there has been a heavy focus on the alignment of Christian conservatives and conservative politics. Many of the things brought forth in their books have generated a positive discussion, some of it is overboard and some of it did enlighten many people to the dangers of aligning too closely and too passionately into the kingdoms of this world. At least 9 times out of 10, the discussion focuses primarily on the religious right. But very little attention has been focused on people like Jim Wallis and Campolo themselves, who were ironically very heavily invested in the Obama campaign, even travelling and campaigning for him.
In certain instances, there may be a place for government to play a “charitable” role, but I do note that Scripture speaks of the sword bearing mandate and not the broad spectrum of responsibilities you describe. I don’t think it is by coincidence that governments typically do law enforcement and justice a lot better than they do charity. But that is probably a discussion for another day and is a secondary point here.
I think it is interesting that you regard the situation of this chaplain as a minor issue. I see it quite differently - I see it as one example of perhaps thousands just like it, where the lines between Church and government work have become so co-mingled, that Christians who do minister in ministries of compassion are usually prevented from freely preaching the Gospel. Do you see what has happened? We have compromised by linking arm in arm with the world’s systems and power structures and it literally prevents us from sharing the Gospel. This is not a tertiary issue, this is huge and it does not bode well for the future of the Church, at least not here in the West.
It’s astounding how many of you have no idea what socialism really is. In no way does anything Obama has done or will do equate with socialism. Socialism isn’t a redistribution of wealth. Socialism is an economic and political system governed by and for the working class aimed at eliminating the vast wealth disparity that exists in most places.
I can never speak for Jesus, but I cannot help but think that our Lord would be in total opposition to this bill. Jesus didn’t spend his time with the rich, helping them to get richer, but rather with the poor. He defied all logic and norms to egrant us with everlasting life. Jesus says there are only two laws: 1. Love thy neighbor and 2. Love God. He later says he came not to destroy the law, but to fulfill it (Peter later says that the law is love).
The new healthcare bill shows nothing but compassion, and contrary to republican propaganda (comparable only to that of dictatorial regimes…trust me, I’ve been to Cuba and seen their eerily similar propaganda) this bill will not bankrupt America or destroy the lives of doctors. What this bill will do is lower the deficit and ultimately lead a reform that sees everyone in the nation covered by health insurance. Jesus did not discriminate when he healed the sick and poor. He did not avoid the helping dregs of society (as seen in his pardoning of the adulteress), and neither should we.
@Flash, This is what I’ve always thought too.
I feel that Christians need to return to the core of what Christ has commanded us to do. Instead of squabbling over who shouldn’t do what, we should take a good look at ourselves and see if we are truly doing what He has said is the greatest of all: love.
Some Christians do not have the most important element, yet they point fingers and condemn those who do.
I too am most confused about the abortion part. The health care bill does not fund abortion, except in cases of rape, incest (which is usually rape), and to save the mother’s life.
It would seem to help alleviate the fear much more by shedding light on this fact, rather than continuing to tell people that the bill has bad consequences for the unborn. The bill does nothing to change the availability of elective abortion. Unless you believe an unborn life should be protected but a living woman’s life is worthless?
Telling people not to be afraid of the monster in the dark room doesn’t help as much as turning on the lights and letting them see for themselves that there is no monster.
I have to ask, what is the motivation of someone who wants the frightened people to continue believing in a monster that doesn’t exist?