Hi-

Super Sabbath this week on Sept 7 will start at 11am with the Bible Discussion. Following will be a potluck then services starting at approximately 1PM.                See you there- Dave Chornomaz

Bible Discussion will be led by Mr. Luis Marrero:

Does God Want His Children to Engage in this World’s Politics? Note- here is link to UCG's Study Paper: https://ucgweb.s3.amazonaws.com/files/papers/UCG-papers-Voting-and-Involvement-in-Politics.pdf

1.The Lord tells Samuel that by asking for a king, Israel has rejected Him in

1 Samuel 8:7  "And the Lord told him: ‘Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.’" This passage underscores a pivotal moment in the Israelites’ history when their yearning for a human king symbolized a profound rejection of God’s direct rule over them.

2. Jesus says that His kingdom is not of this world in John 18:36 "Jesus said, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.’" This verse highlights the spiritual nature of Jesus’ kingdom, distinct from earthly realms.

3. Some cite examples of godly individuals who served in political roles, such as Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 37:1-50:26), Daniel in Babylon (Daniel 6:28), and Esther (Esther 7:3-4). How can these examples be reconciled with these New Testament instructions?

2 Corinthians 6:17 : "Therefore, ‘Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.’" Revelation 18:4  "Then I heard another voice from heaven say: ‘Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues.’" These verses emphasize the call for believers to separate themselves from worldly influences and live in a way that honors God. Does it include politics?

4. Is it possible to follow and reconcile this world’s politics with 1 Corinthians 13? 

5. Is there a political platform and leadership that exemplifies Christ’s definition of servant leadership? Jesus instructs His disciples to be servant leaders in Mark 10:42-45 "Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’" This passage emphasizes the importance of humility and service in leadership, following Jesus’ example. Again, does the world’s politics meet Jesus' standard of leadership?