“Rulers consider it freedom to be able to do whatever he wants, to make his wishes into actions! Such a person can do many things, but not one particular thing: serve!”
— Karl Barth
If you’re already weary of the incessant speculation following yesterday’s verdict, here is our discussion of Thesis 4 of the Barmen Declaration:
“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. It will not be so among you; but whoever wishes to have authority over you must be your servant.” Matt. 20:25-26
The various offices in the Church do not provide a basis for some to exercise authority over others but for the ministry [lit., “service”] with which the whole community has been entrusted and charged to be carried out.
We reject the false doctrine that, apart from this ministry, the Church could, and could have permission to, give itself or allow itself to be given special leaders [Führer] vested with ruling authority.
Show Notes
Summary
The conversation explores the themes of servant leadership, authority in the church, natural theology, and the role of Christians in civil society. It delves into the rejection of false doctrine and the impact of political situations on theological discourse. The conversation delves into the intersection of politics and Christianity, highlighting the dangers of seeking power and glory in the church and the political domain. It emphasizes the importance of servant leadership and the role of the laity in speaking out and bearing witness to the Lordship of Christ. The discussion also touches on the nature of leadership, the impact of anxiety in relational systems, and the need for love and empowerment within the church community.
Takeaways
Servant leadership emphasizes serving the church and Jesus through the church, rather than promoting personal agendas.
The rejection of false doctrine challenges the idea of special leaders and emphasizes the authority of Christ in the church.
Natural theology is critiqued for viewing God through human assumptions and prejudices, leading to self-service and a lack of consideration for others.
The conversation highlights the impact of political situations on theological discourse, particularly in the rejection of special leaders and the role of Christians in civil society. The dangers of seeking power and glory in the church and the political domain
The role of the laity in speaking out and bearing witness to the Lordship of Christ
The impact of anxiety in relational systems and the need for love and empowerment within the church community
Sound Bites
"The rejection of special leaders is directed explicitly at the political situation of the day, challenging the notion of a special leader in civil society."
"American Christianity has lost its power, glory, and domination over the culture."
"A good leader is always going to be a disappointment because a good leader will have to admit his or her own abilities and limits and failures."
"This demonstrates how dangerous it is to separate a high Christology from a low Christology."
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