EP 209 – NAVIGATING THE ELECTION SEASON
Hold on Bootcampers! This EP is gonna be….well, we hope it will be helpful. If you survey Pastors you’ll discover that one of the greatest stress they have is during the Election season. People are passionate, opinionated and the election season is one of the most stressful we all endure. How can a pastor lead well during this tense time? The guys offer some suggestions. Sit back, listen in and hopefully you’ll be encouraged.
Prioritize Unity, Not Uniformity:
- Unity within the body of Christ is paramount, but it’s important to recognize that unity does not require uniformity. Each member of your congregation comes with a unique set of experiences, perspectives, and political beliefs. Rather than attempting to enforce conformity, seek to build bridges of understanding and respect among your members. Encourage open dialogue that fosters empathy and compassion, even when opinions diverge.
Embrace Wisdom in Timing:
- Timing is crucial when implementing major changes within your church. During an election season, when emotions run high and divisions are more pronounced, it’s wise to exercise caution. Avoid introducing significant alterations that could further disrupt the congregation’s harmony. Instead, focus on nurturing the spiritual growth and unity of your church members.
Leveraging Social Media for Good:
- The prevalence of social media exacerbates political extremes and can fuel division. Pastors can help by providing guidance on responsible social media use. Encourage your congregation to use these platforms as tools for positive engagement, education, and spreading messages of love and unity, rather than contributing to polarization.
Equipping the Flock:
- Educating your congregation about the role of government from a Christian worldview is crucial. Refer to resources like Trevin Wax’s “Multi-directional Leader” to offer guidance on navigating the complexities of politics while remaining grounded in faith. Teach your flock to pray for government leaders and emphasize the sovereignty of God in all political matters.
Discerning Voters:
- Guide your church members in becoming discerning voters. Encourage them to look beyond personalities and parties to scrutinize platforms and policies. Stress the importance of aligning their political choices with their Christian values and ethics. Remind them that our ultimate hope rests in Christ, not in any human leader or political outcome.
Conclusion:
Election seasons can be turbulent times, but they also present opportunities for growth, unity, and spiritual maturity within your congregation. As pastors, our role is to provide guidance, encouragement, and a safe space for dialogue. By prioritizing unity, exercising wisdom in timing, leveraging social media responsibly, and equipping our flock to be discerning voters, we can lead our churches through this season with grace and confidence. Remember, our ultimate hope is not in the outcome of any election but in the unchanging love and sovereignty of Christ.
Related: How to Pastor People and their Social Media
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