What is the Purpose of Government?
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor John Mark focuses on the importance of understanding the role of government from a biblical perspective, especially during the election season. He emphasizes that while we are to submit to governing authorities, our ultimate authority lies with God, and our obedience to the government should never compromise our faith. He explores the primary responsibilities of the government: to protect the innocent and punish the guilty, and encourages Christians to engage actively in political discourse while maintaining respect and prayerfulness. Ultimately, he calls for believers to participate in the political process, vote, and uphold their dual citizenship in both heaven and earth.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, but it had to be a food that starts with the same letter as your name, what would you choose?
Discussion Questions 💬
What do you think it means for Christians to have dual citizenship in both heaven and earth, as mentioned in Philippians 3:20?
Pastor talked about how Christians have a responsibility to both their heavenly citizenship and earthly citizenship, emphasizing that both are important.
How can you balance your responsibilities as a citizen of heaven and a citizen of your country in your daily life?
According to Romans 13, what is the government's primary responsibility, and why is this important for society?
Pastor mentioned that the government’s primary responsibility is to protect the innocent and punish the guilty, stating that this is essential for maintaining law and order.
What are some examples of how good government can protect citizens and promote peace in your community?
Pastor emphasized the importance of obeying the government unless it conflicts with our faith. Can you think of a situation where this might happen?
He mentioned that obeying the government is important, but Christians should disobey if it means compromising their faith.
How would you respond if the government asked you to do something that goes against your Christian beliefs?
How do you feel about the idea of paying taxes as a way to support government services, even when you might not agree with how the money is spent?
Pastor pointed out that paying taxes is necessary to help the government function and protect the people, even if one may have mixed feelings about it.
In what ways can supporting government through taxes impact your community, even if not everything aligns with your personal beliefs?
What does it mean to be 'salt and light' in the context of engaging with politics and government as Christians?
Pastor used the metaphor of being 'salt and light' to describe how Christians should influence culture and government positively.
What practical ways can you be 'salt and light' in your school or community when discussing political issues?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for clarity in understanding the role of government in our lives.
• Ask God to give us courage to speak the truth in love.
• Pray for opportunities to be salt and light in our communities.
