02-22-25

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
February 22, 2025
If I can, I’d like to make a confession. As one who celebrates the diversity of Christianity, and has an appreciation of both the richness and turbulence of Christian history, I can also be a little judgmental when it comes to some fringe expressions of Christianity. With that said, I even have a hard time putting some of these fringe groups under the broad tent of Christianity. It sort of seems necessary that there be some hint of Jesus if it is to be called Christian. The Seven Mountain Mandate is one such organization. It claims a mandate for Christians to take charge of the Seven Mountains (Family, Business, Government, Media, Entertainment, Education, and Religion). The goal is the dismantling of democracy, for the purpose of creating theocracy. Anyone who knows history knows that this does not end well, especially for anyone who does not accept their narrow, Euro-centric, male-dominated, hierarchical understanding of God and religion. It would be one thing if this group was some house meeting of 20 people in a small town in Nebraska, but this group has significant numbers, including elected officials—local, state, and federal. Not only do I have some genuine concern for our country, but as a pastor, I feel as if we are losing all of the Jesus message to those whose only purpose is power. They can shine it up with all kinds of trinkets and polishing techniques, but it is nothing more than a power grab wrapped in religious language. People who see themselves losing power have manufactured a ridiculous religious system that has nothing to do with the Jesus of scripture, the one who gave up all power, taking on the form of a servant, for the sake of both neighbor and enemy. If your Christianity is all about gaining earthly power, it might be time to have a come-to-Jesus meeting. Seriously!

For the humble Christ who changed the trajectory of the world, I give you thanks, Lord God. As some people attempt to dramatically alter that grace-filled and life-changing trajectory, I pray for a faith centered in Jesus, including his Sermon on the Mount, his parables, and his nonviolent self-giving witness. Amen.