Heavenly Value & Authority (Nilai Syurga & Kuasa)
The book, “Jesus and the Powers: Christian Political Witness In An Age of Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies” by N.T. Wright and Michael F. Bird explores the concept of “powers” as understood in the New Testament and its significance to the life and mission of Jesus.[1] Wright and Bird provide a comprehensive exploration of the theological and practical dimensions of Jesus’ interaction with the powers, offering valuable insights for both historical and contemporary Christian thought.
In chapter 3, “Power and the ‘Powers’ in Early Christianity: John, Paul and the Paradox of Biblical Politics”, Wright and Bird thoroughly explore and speak into how the early Christian writings of John and Paul address political power.[2]
John’s Perspective:
Revelation: John’s apocalyptic vision in the Book of Revelation[3] portrays the Roman Empire as a beast, symbolizing oppressive political power. This imagery is used to critique the empire’s idolatry and injustice, urging Christians to remain faithful to Jesus’s kingdom despite persecution.
Dual Allegiance: John emphasizes that Christians owe their ultimate allegiance to Jesus, not to earthly rulers. This dual allegiance often puts them at odds with the political powers of their time.
Paul’s Perspective:
Romans 13[4]: Paul’s letter to the Romans discusses the role of governing authorities, stating that they are instituted by God to maintain order and justice. However, this does not mean blind obedience; Paul also calls for discernment and resistance against unjust rulers.
Principalities and Powers: Paul frequently refers to “principalities and powers” in his letters (e.g., Ephesians 6:12), indicating that political powers have a spiritual dimension. [5]These powers can be both good and evil, and Christians are called to engage with them critically, recognizing their potential for both justice and oppression.
Wright and Bird contend that both John and Paul offer a sophisticated perspective on political power. They recognize the essential role of political structures while also pointing out their susceptibility to corruption and idolatry. Christians are urged to interact with these powers by advocating for justice and opposing oppression, all while remaining steadfast in their allegiance to Jesus’s kingdom. This part of the book motivates Christians to engage in political activities that embody the values of God’s kingdom, striking a balance between obedience to authorities and prophetic resistance to injustice.
Wright and Bird discuss the concept that “all authority is from God,” drawing from biblical texts,
‘Aren’t you going to speak to me?’ he said. ‘Don’t you know that I have the authority to let you go, and the authority to crucify you?’ ‘You couldn’t have any authority at all over me,’ replied Jesus, ‘unless it was given to you from above. That’s why the person who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.[6]
Some notable key points:
- Divine Ordination:
- Purpose of Authority: Wright and Bird explain that God ordains political authorities to serve a purpose in His divine plan. These authorities are meant to promote good and restrain evil, acting as instruments of God’s justice.
- Accountability: While authorities are established by God, they are also accountable to Him. This means that rulers and governments must act justly and righteously, as they will ultimately answer to God for their actions.
- Christian Engagement:
- Critical Engagement: Christians are called to engage with political authorities critically. They should support and obey just laws and rulers but also resist and challenge unjust and oppressive regimes.
- Prophetic Witness: The authors emphasize that Christians should act as a prophetic witness, advocating for justice, peace, and the common good, reflecting the values of God’s kingdom.
- Balance of Power:
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- Submission and Resistance: Wright and Bird highlight the balance between submission to authorities and resistance against tyranny. Christians are encouraged to discern when to obey and when to resist, always prioritizing their ultimate allegiance to Jesus’s kingdom.
Wright and Bird’s work combines political theology, biblical overview, and church history to argue that advancing Jesus’s kingdom involves confronting various forms of empire. They suggest that Christians should engage politically in ways that support democratic values and oppose autocracy and nationalism. The book reflects on how this kingdom-focused approach applies to contemporary issues, including conflicts in Russia-Ukraine, China-Taiwan, and political instability in the USA, UK, and Australia, as well as the challenge of Christian nationalism.
Takeaways and application to self:
I often struggle what to say when people engage me in politics and God conversations. This book offers me practical insights for applying Christian principles when engaging in political discussions in my daily life:
Engage politically with integrity
- This book encourages advocacy for justice, peace, and the common good by supporting policies and leaders that reflect these values and opposing injustice. Wright and Bird stress the need to discern when to follow authorities and when to resist unjust laws, helping me navigate political complexities while remaining faithful to my beliefs.
Reflect kingdom values
- This book teaches me to embody the values of Jesus’s kingdom in all aspects of life, including politics by showing love, mercy, and humility in my interactions.
Stay informed and thoughtful
- This book provides me a framework for analyzing political situations through a Christian lens. To engage with political systems critically, supporting what is good and opposing what is evil.
Community and Accountability
- This book led me to engage with my church and community in discussions about political issues. It guides me to look to trusted Christian leaders and scholars for guidance on complex political matters.
By applying these principles, I can engage in political life in a manner that respects God and supports His kingdom values. This approach allows me to positively impact society while keeping my primary commitment to Jesus.
[1] Wright, N. T., and Michael F. Bird. Jesus and the Powers: Christian Political Witness in an Age of
Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies. London: SPCK Publishing, 2024.
[2] Wright, N. T., and Michael F. Bird, 40.
[3] Revelation.
[4] Romans 13.
[5] Ephesians 6:12.
[6] Wright, N. T., and Michael F. Bird, 41.
About the Author
Shela Sullivan
Born and raised on the vibrant Penang Island in Malaysia, I cherish the Malaysian greeting, “Mari Makan!!” which reflects the warmth of shared meals. Since 1996, I have called Oregon my home enjoying the raindrops and the serenity of its beaches. The ocean connects me to nature and energizes me. I am a Wife - Mentor - Traveling Pastor - Sourcing Manager Construction. Favorite Bible Verse: "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." ~ Psalm 37:4~ I reside with my husband, David and our fur-baby Rolo. We share passions for travelling, culture, diverse cuisines, home improvements, classic cars and humor.10 responses to “Heavenly Value & Authority (Nilai Syurga & Kuasa)”
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Thank you for this thorough discussion of many of the topics of the book.
What do you think is most challenging for you to apply in your own context? How might you prepare for those challenges?
Hi Debbie,
I often struggle what to say when people engage me in politics and God conversations.
I agree with Wright and Bird emphasizing that Christians should act as a prophetic witness, advocating for justice, peace, and the common good, reflecting the values of God’s kingdom. I believe I can try this.
Shela,
Last year when adding Access to Abortion to the Ohio Constitution was on the Ohio ballot, I really struggled with how to vote. While I believe life is sacred, I felt that simply outlawing abortion allows other injustices to continue (no paid maternity leave, high price of childcare, high infant mortality rates especially among the Black population, etc.).
I’m wondering if you have ever struggled with how to vote on a particular issue because no matter the outcome it seems like injustice will still occur? If so, do you feel this book provided you any insight on dealing with that struggle of knowing how to vote?
Hi Jeff,
I understand the struggle you are experiencing, and it is a challenge many faces when voting on issues with profound ethical implications. Jesus and the Powers by Wright and Bird offers a valuable perspective that can help navigate these complexities. According to Wright and Bird, Christian political witness involves discerning how our actions align with the values of justice and the kingdom of God, especially in contexts marked by political and social dysfunction.
When considering the issue of abortion and related societal injustices, it is crucial to recognize that the question of legality is not isolated from broader social responsibilities. The authors argue that political decisions should reflect a commitment to the holistic well-being of all individuals, especially the marginalized. This means advocating not only for legal changes but also for systemic support that addresses the root causes of why such choices might be made in the first place.
Your concerns about the lack of paid maternity leave, high childcare costs, and disparities in infant mortality are critical. These are part of a broader social justice issue that intersects with the debate on abortion. Supporting policies that address these injustices aligns with a comprehensive view of promoting life and well-being.
Ultimately, voting on such a complex issue involves weighing the immediate and long-term impacts of proposed changes and considering how best to support a just society. While it’s essential to uphold the sanctity of life, it’s also important to advocate for a social framework that supports families and reduces the pressures that can lead to difficult decisions regarding abortion. Engaging in ongoing advocacy for comprehensive support systems, as well as thoughtful consideration of how legal measures fit into this larger context, reflects a subtle approach to Christian political witness.
Yes, as a Christian and as a woman, I do struggle with the issue of abortion and all that associates with it. I have made the decision that I can only answer for myself, if I am in the situation. I cannot answer for all the women out there. It is not right because I do not know their situations. I would love to discuss this topic with you when we meet in DC.
Hi Shela, As I read your blog my thoughts went to wondering how it might work outside of politics but in secular work. Are there reasons, and if so, ways you might be able to be a witness in your work setting with the utility company.
Hi Diane,
Thank you for your question.
Most of the time I do not engage in political conversations at work. I excuse myself and walk away.
Shela
Hi Sheila,
I like the takeaways you listed out, especially the one about staying informed and thoughtful. One challenge with staying informed is that most news sources are incredibly biased. I recently found the Daily Pour Over podcast, that provides news highlights and some reminders to Christians about who are hope is in. https://www.thepourover.org/
Thank you, Christy. I also believe that discretion, ethics, and morality should be considered alongside the truth. I concur that external influences can obscure our judgment.
Hi Shela, I appreciate how you are challenging yourself to apply “Jesus and the Powers” to your life. The practical application of theory always proves complicated, especially when the subject is controversial. I think we are all navigating this reality. Since reading Wright and Bird, have you had any new ideas concerning ways to engage your community in discussions about the kingdom and political matters?
Shela, thank you for your post and the outline of key points. You mentioned that the book lets you discuss political issues with your church and community. How did it go? What was most helpful from the book in those engagements?