Eternal Hope vs. Earthly Hopes: Navigating Faith in a Political World

Can political systems truly address the deepest needs of the human heart, or is there a more profound solution? Join me, Javier, on the Faith Compass Podcast as we explore the transformative power of placing our trust in Jesus Christ rather than relying solely on earthly leaders and systems. Through reflections on biblical passages like Psalm 146 and Jeremiah 17, we uncover the inherent limitations of human governance and the unique hope offered by Christ's eternal promises. Our discussion challenges us to shift our focus from temporary political victories to the lasting treasure of eternal life. As faithful stewards, we're called to engage with the world by advocating for justice and mercy, recognizing that genuine transformation stems from spiritual renewal rather than political reform.

Balancing our dual citizenship as heavenly and earthly participants presents unique challenges, as we discover through the lens of Philippians 3:20, Matthew 22:21, and more. This episode highlights the call to prioritize allegiance to God's kingdom while embodying humility, love, and servanthood in our worldly engagements. Inspired by voices like John Calvin and Charles Spurgeon, we emphasize the church's role in sparking spiritual revival over seeking political dominance. As we delve into the promises of Christ's perfect reign, we find encouragement to remain steadfast in our faith amidst opposition, drawing hope from the vision of Revelation 21:3-4. This journey concludes with a heartfelt prayer for strength and guidance, empowering us to live as faithful ambassadors of God's kingdom.

Chapters

• 0:00 Placing Hope in the Savior
• 7:54 Living as Citizens of Heaven
• 19:59 Finding Hope Amidst Opposition

Transcript

Speaker 0: 0:34

Welcome to the Faith Compass Podcast. I'm your host, javier, and today's topic challenges us to evaluate where we place our hope and trust. This episode is titled Beyond Politics the Savior's Promise. Together, we'll explore why relying on human works or the politics of these worlds will always fall short and why our ultimate hope must rest solely in our spiritual Savior, jesus Christ. Before we begin, let's take a moment to pray. Heavenly Father, thank you for this opportunity to come together and reflect on your word. Open our hearts and minds to understand your truth and guide us to place our hope fully in you. May our discussion today bring glory to your name. In Jesus' name, we pray Amen.

Speaker 0: 1:08

As we dive into today's discussion, let's begin with the foundational truth. Human leaders and institutions, no matter how well-intentioned, are limited and fallible. In Psalm 14, 146, verses 3 and 4, the psalmist reminds us Put not your trust in princes, in the Son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth. On that very day, his plans perish. This verse is a powerful reminder that earthly leaders, no matter how charismatic or influential, cannot provide ultimate salvation. Their plans are temporary, their power limited and their promises often fleeting. Many of us are tempted to place our hope in political systems or leaders, thinking that the right policies or governance can bring lasting peace, justice or prosperity. While these things have their place in society, they are not the ultimate solution to the deeper problems of sin and brokenness in the world. Let's consider what Jeremiah wrote in chapter 17, verse 5. Thus says the Lord Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord. When we elevate human leaders or ideologies to a place of ultimate trust, we not only set ourselves up for disappointment but risk turning our hearts away from God. The author, charles Spurgeon, in All of Grace, underscores this truth, stating the church falters when it relies on worldly powers or human strength to fulfill its calling. Our confidence must always rest not in earthly thrones, but in the throne of God.

Speaker 0: 2:21

This idea aligns with the teachings of Jesus. When confronted about his role as a king, jesus responded in John, chapter 18, verse 36. My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.

Speaker 0: 2:36

Jesus makes it clear that his mission was not to establish an earthly political kingdom, but to usher in the kingdom of God, a kingdom that transcends political borders and human governments. But why is this distinction important for us as believers? The answer lies in understanding the limitations of human governance. The apostle Paul writes in Romans, chapter 8, verse 21,. Creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. No human system, no matter how noble or advanced, can free us from the bondage of sin. That freedom comes only through the work of Christ on the cross.

Speaker 0: 3:07

Let's take a moment to reflect on how this plays out in our daily lives. Have you ever found yourself overly invested in the outcome of an election or policy change, feeling as though your future security depended on it? It's easy to do, especially in a world that constantly bombards us with the idea that political leaders are the answer to our problems. But scripture challenges us to shift our focus. In Matthew, chapter 6, verses 19 through 21, jesus says Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal, for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Our ultimate treasure is not found in political victories or earthly achievements. It is found in the hope of eternal life through Christ. This does not mean that we should disengage from the world around us. In fact, christians are called to be salt and light in society, advocating for justice, mercy and truth. Micah, chapter 6, verse 8, reminds us he has told you, o man, what is good and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God.

Speaker 0: 4:05

However, there is a crucial difference between participating in the political process as faithful stewards and placing our ultimate trust in it. Martin Lloyd-Jones once wrote the greatest need of the hour is not political reform but spiritual revival. A revived church will do more to transform society than any legislative program ever could. The truth is, human solutions will always fall short because they address symptoms rather than the root cause. At the heart of every societal issue, whether poverty, injustice or conflict, is sin, and only the gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to transform hearts and lives.

Speaker 0: 4:35

Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2, verses 8 and 9, for by grace. You have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing. It is the gift of God, not a result of works so that no one may boast. This grace is not something we can legislate or achieve through human effort. It is a gift from God freely given to those who place their trust in him. Let's revisit the central question when is your trust? Is it in the shifting sands of politics and human institutions, or is it in the unshakable foundation of Christ? Jesus himself said in Matthew, chapter 7, verses 24 and 25,. Everyone, then, who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock and the rain fell and the floods came and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall because it had been founded on the rock.

Speaker 0: 5:15

One of the greatest dangers of relying on human leadership is the false sense of security it can provide. The Bible gives us numerous examples of leaders who were raised up by God but were flawed and imperfect, ultimately pointing us to the need for a perfect savior. Consider King Saul, israel's first king. The Israelites demanded a king wanting to be like the nations around them. They believed a human ruler would provide stability, security and success. In 1 Samuel 8, verse 7, the Lord said to Samuel Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them. This passage is sobering. The people's desire for a king wasn't just about governance. It was a rejection of God's rule. And while Saul began his reign with promise, it became evident that even the best human leaders are prone to failure. His disobedience and pride led to his downfall and the nation suffered as a result.

Speaker 0: 6:01

This historical account teaches us that when we place our trust in human systems, we often do so at the expense of our reliance on God. The prophet Isaiah captures this sentiment beautifully in chapter 31, verse 1, where he declares Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the Lord. Isaiah's words remind us that earthly power and resources, no matter how impressive, are no substitute for divine guidance and provision. We see a similar theme in the New Testament, when the crowd welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem waving palm branches and shouting Pazanna, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord John, chapter 12, verse 13. Many in that crowd believed Jesus would overthrow Roman rule and establish an earthly kingdom. Yet just days later, when they realized his mission was not political but spiritual, their cries turned to shouts to crucify him. This stark contrast reveals how easily misplaced expectations can lead to disillusionment. Jesus didn't come to liberate people from Roman oppression. He came to liberate them from the bondage of sin. His victory was not won through political revolution, but through his death and resurrection.

Speaker 0: 7:03

Charles Spurgeon, often called the Prince of Preachers, addressed this tendency to look to human leaders for salvation. He once said comfort, for he is broken and feeble. Look not to man for wisdom, for his understanding is darkened. Look not to man for strength, for he is weak and failing. Look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Spurgeon's exhortation calls us back to the core truth of the gospel. Only Jesus can fulfill our deepest needs.

Speaker 0: 7:25

Let's take a moment to examine the role of politics in the lives of believers. Politics can be a tool for justice and good governance, but it is not a savior. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans acknowledges the importance of government in chapter 13, verse 1. Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Paul's words encourage us to respect and engage with governing authorities, but always with the understanding that their power is derived from God and is ultimately subordinate to his will.

Speaker 0: 7:54

One of the greatest challenges Christians face is navigating the tension between being citizens of heaven and living as strangers in this world. In Philippians 3, verse 20, paul writes but our citizenship is in heaven and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. This verse reminds us of our true identity. While we are called to be active participants in our communities, our ultimate allegiance is to the kingdom of God. This perspective should shape how we engage with the world, including politics. As we reflect on these truths, let's revisit the words of Jesus in Matthew, chapter 22, verse 21. Therefore, render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's. This teaching is a call to balance our responsibilities as earthly citizens with our ultimate devotion to God. It's a reminder that, while we may participate in the political process, we must never let it overshadow our spiritual priorities.

Speaker 0: 8:38

Now some might ask what does it mean to live as a citizen of heaven in a politically divided world? The answer lies in embodying the values of Christ humility, love and servant leadership. In Mark, chapter 10, verses 43 and 44, jesus teaches his disciples but it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be. This posture of servanthood contrasts sharply with the power struggles and divisiveness often seen in politics. As followers of Christ, we are called to rise above such behavior and reflect His love and grace. John Calvin, a key figure in the Reformation, captured this idea when he wrote we must take care not to make an idol of human leaders or institutions, for they can never satisfy the soul's hunger for God. This quote is a poignant reminder to guard our hearts against placing undue trust in political saviors. Only Jesus can satisfy the longings of our souls and meet the needs of a broken world.

Speaker 0: 9:29

Let's pause here to reflect on a final passage from the Apostle Peter. In 1 Peter 2, verses 11 and 12, he writes Beloved, I urge you, as sojourners and exiles, to abstain from the passions of the flesh which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. This charge encourages us to live with integrity and faithfulness, pointing others to Christ through our actions. This call to live as sojourners reminds us of the temporary nature of our time on earth. The political systems we see today, no matter how powerful or enduring they may seem, are fleeting in the grand scope of eternity.

Speaker 0: 10:04

Daniel, chapter 2, verse 44, speaks of this eternal perspective, stating and in the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever. Daniel's vision underscores a truth that should comfort and guide us as believers the kingdom of God is the only kingdom that will endure forever. Every earthly power will fade, but his rule will never end. If we shift our focus to Jesus' sermon on the mount, we find another crucial lesson about the heart of the believer in a broken world. In Matthew, chapter 5, verses 13 through 16, jesus says you are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. No-transcript around us.

Speaker 0: 11:03

Not by placing our trust in human leaders, but by living out our faith in such a way that others are drawn to the hope we have in Christ. Charles Spurgeon once preached when the church sleeps, the world is undisturbed by her, but when she arises and shines, the nations see the light of God reflected in her holiness. This idea emphasizes that the church, when faithfully living out its mission, has the power to transform society, not through political dominance, but through spiritual revival. As we think about this, let's reflect on the transformative power of prayer. 1 Timothy 2, verses 1 and 2, says First of all, then I urge that supplications prayers. 1 and 2 says Paul's instruction here is vital. Instead of placing our hope in political leaders, we are called to pray for them. This act of intercession acknowledges that God is sovereign over all authorities and that our trust remains in Him, not in the decisions of human rulers. This perspective allows us to engage with politics without idolizing it. It gives us the freedom to advocate for justice, mercy and righteousness, while keeping our hope anchored in the promises of Christ.

Speaker 0: 12:05

Another significant passage that speaks to this is Isaiah, chapter 9, verses 6 and 7, a prophecy about the coming Messiah. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness, from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. This beautiful prophecy reminds us that the ultimate ruler, the one who will bring everlasting peace and justice, is not a politician or human leader, but Jesus Christ himself. It's important to note that when Jesus reigns, his government will not resemble the flawed systems we see today. His rule will be characterized by perfect justice, mercy and truth. Until that day comes, we are called to be faithful stewards of the time and resources God has given us, always pointing others to the hope we have in Him.

Speaker 0: 12:54

Rc Sproul once said the issue of authority is always at the core of human rebellion. The question is not whether Christ is King, but whether we will bow to Him as King. This statement challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we truly submitting to Christ's Lordship, or are we looking to human leaders to fulfill roles that only he can? In Colossians, chapter 1, verses 16 and 17, paul writes For. In Colossians 1, verses 16 and 17, paul writes this passage is a profound reminder of Christ's sovereignty over all creation. Every ruler and authority is subject to him and he holds all things together. This recognition of Christ's sovereignty should bring us peace in a world where political systems and leaders often seem chaotic or unreliable.

Speaker 0: 13:39

It's easy to become disheartened by the headlines or to feel powerless in the face of corruption and injustice, but scripture assures us that God is in control even when things appear otherwise. Take, for instance, the story of Pharaoh in the book of Exodus. This powerful ruler of Egypt believed himself to be untouchable, even defying God by refusing to let the Israelites go. Yet in Exodus, chapter 15, verse 11,. After witnessing the power of God through the parting of the Red Sea, moses and the Israelites declare who is like you, o Lord among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders? This reminds us that even the mightiest leaders are subject to the authority and justice of God. This account serves as a reminder that no leader, no matter how mighty, is beyond God's authority. It also reassures us that God's justice will ultimately prevail.

Speaker 0: 14:22

But what does this mean for us as believers? How do we live faithfully in a world that often prioritizes human achievement and political power over spiritual truths? The answer lies in the example of Christ himself. In Philippians, chapter 2, verses 5 through 8, paul writes have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men and being found in human form. He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Jesus demonstrated what it means to live with humility and trust in God's plan. He didn't seek political power or earthly recognition. Instead, he submitted to the will of the Father and fulfilled His mission through self-sacrificial love. This same mindset is what we are called to adopt In a politically divided world. Our focus should be on embodying the character of Christ, serving others, extending grace and pointing people to the hope of the gospel.

Speaker 0: 15:12

John Stott, a renowned Christian theologian, emphasized this when he said the Christian's task is not to withdraw from the world but to influence it. In the name of Christ, our engagement with society must always reflect the values of the kingdom of God. Stott's words challenge us to think beyond partisan lines or ideological divisions. As ambassadors of Christ, our ultimate goal is to reflect His love and truth in all that we do. One of the most powerful tools we have in this mission is the Word of God. Hebrews, chapter 4, verse 12, reminds us. For the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. When we feel overwhelmed by the complexities of the world, scripture provides clarity and guidance. It equips us to discern truth from falsehood and to navigate the challenges of life with wisdom and grace. This reliance on scripture is especially important when engaging with political discourse.

Speaker 0: 16:01

The Apostle James offers a sobering warning in chapter 3, verse 6, where he writes and the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life and set on fire by hell. In our interactions, whether in person or online, it's crucial that we speak with kindness and humility as representatives of Christ. Our words should build others up and point them to the hope we have in him. Finally, let's reflect on the ultimate victory of Christ. In Revelation, chapter 11, verse 15, we read Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet and there were loud voices in heaven saying the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever. This verse is a powerful reminder that the story doesn't end with the brokenness we see today. Christ's reign will bring perfect justice, peace and restoration. Until that day, we are called to live faithfully, trusting in his promises and proclaiming his gospel. As we think about the ultimate victory of Christ and the coming kingdom of God, it's important to consider how this hope should shape our daily lives.

Speaker 0: 16:57

The Apostle Peter writes in 2 Peter 3, verses 11-13, since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolve, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn. But according to his, this passage points us to a life of active anticipation. Waiting for the fulfillment of God's promises doesn't mean passivity. It means living in a way that reflects His righteousness, seeking to glorify Him in all we do. Holiness and godliness, as Peter describes, stand in stark contrast to the ways of the world, when politics often promotes self-interest, division and power struggles.

Speaker 0: 17:40

Believers are called to a higher standard humility, unity and servant heartedness. Paul reiterates this in Galatians, chapter 5, verses 22 and 23, listing the fruit of the Spirit. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. These qualities are not just personal virtues. They are tools for engaging with the world in a way that reflects Christ. When we exited these traits, even in the midst of political disagreements or societal challenges, we bear witness to the transformative power of the gospel.

Speaker 0: 18:04

Let's take a moment to address the practical implications of this calling. As believers, we often face difficult decisions about how to engage with politics. Should we vote? Should we advocate for certain policies? Should we take a stand on controversial issues? The answer to these questions lies in prayerful discernment and a commitment to keeping Christ at the center of all we do. In Proverbs, chapter 3, verses 5 and 6, we are instructed trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths. This passage serves as a guiding principle for navigating the complexities of political engagement. When we seek God's wisdom and trust in his guidance, we can act with confidence and integrity, knowing that our ultimate allegiance is to him.

Speaker 0: 18:42

John Piper, in his book Don't Waste your Life, offers a powerful reminder of this perspective. Politics is not ultimate. Christ is. Nations rise and fall, but the mission of the church remains unchanged to make disciples of all nations and to glorify the name of Christ. This mission should be our focus as we navigate the political landscape. Whether advocating for justice, defending the vulnerable or simply engaging in respectful dialogue, our goal should always be to point others to the hope of the gospel.

Speaker 0: 19:07

One of the greatest examples of this is found in the life of Jesus. Throughout his ministry, jesus interacted with people from all walks of life tax collectors, fishermen, pharisees and even Roman officials. Yet his focus was never on aligning himself with a political agenda, it was always on proclaiming the kingdom of God. In Luke, chapter 19, verse 10, jesus declares For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost. This statement encapsulates his mission and reminds us of our own.

Speaker 0: 19:31

While politics can address external issues, only the gospel can transform hearts and lead people to salvation. This is why Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5, verse 20, therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, god making his appeal through us. We implore you, on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. As ambassadors, we represent the values and priorities of the kingdom of God. This means that even as we engage with the political systems of this world, our ultimate goal is to reflect Christ's love and truth. It's also worth noting that political engagement often requires courage.

Speaker 0: 19:59

In a world that is increasingly hostile to biblical values, standing firm in our faith can come at a cost. Jesus himself warned of this in John, chapter 15, verse 19. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own, but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. This reality should not discourage us, but rather motivate us to remain steadfast. Paul encourages us in 1 Corinthians 15, verse 58. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord, your labor is not in vain. Let's take heart in this truth.

Speaker 0: 20:30

While the world may oppose us, the work we do for the kingdom of God has eternal significance, whether it's sharing the gospel, serving others or simply living out our faith in the public sphere. We are part of a greater story that God is writing. This eternal perspective is beautifully captured in Revelation, chapter 21, verses 3 and 4. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more. Neither he will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more. Neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.

Speaker 0: 21:03

These words remind us of the hope we have in Christ, a hope that transcends the temporary struggles and uncertainties of this world. It's this hope that should guide and sustain us as we navigate life's challenges, including our engagement with politics. Let's close with a word of prayer Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding us that our hope is found in you alone. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, our one true Savior, and to trust in your sovereign plan for our lives and for this world. Guide us to live as faithful ambassadors of your kingdom, reflecting your love and truth in all we do. May we be steadfast in our faith, seeking to glorify you in every area of our lives. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen, the lens of scripture. Until then, stay blessed, and may the peace of god be with you always. You.