According to a recent Reuters Poll, 73 percent of Americans feel our country is heading in the wrong direction. (4) Perhaps you feel that way too and wonder what you can do to make a difference in America.
Jeffress says the collapse of America is coming. “We have both the ability and responsibility to delay the decay of our nation, even if we can't ultimately reverse it.” (7) this book is about what Christians can do to be the salt and light Christ commanded us to be. When people refuse to stand up against unrighteousness, evil always triumphs. “It's time for Christians to intervene.” (29)
Jeffress reviews the decline of godly influence in society, from Supreme Court decisions to school board actions. He speaks to intolerance, what it really means, and where the intolerance of Christian ideas might lead us.
He discusses how Christians should be involved in politics and gives four criteria for selecting a candidate.
Jeffress includes a chapter “for pastors only” on God's plan for the church, the pastor's calling and responsibility, and guidelines for preaching on issues.
Jeffress does not tip toe around issues. For example, he says voting for Mitt Romney is not voting for a Christian. “Mormonism is not Christianity. It is a false religion,” he writes. (110)
He quotes Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story, appointed by President James Madison in 1811 to show that the First amendment was not aimed at tolerating other religions but was to prevent any denomination within Christianity from being elevated above others to become a national religion. (89)
Christians are not to panic, Jeffress writes. “As representatives of the King of kings, Christians need to stop hyperventilating during every election and making hysterical comments... Remember, God is not seated on His throne biting his nails over any election. God already knows the outcome, because He has determined the outcome.” (123)
Jeffress is quick to point out, however, that we are not to use God's sovereignty as an excuse for passivity.
I have read a number of books on Christians and politics in the last several years. This one might just be the most sensible and God honoring one I have read. Jeffress has included questions for further reflection at the end of the book so this would be a good choice for groups studying the Christian's responsibility in culture and politics.
Robert Jeffress is senior pastor of the 10,000 member First Baptist church of Dallas, Texas. He regularly appears on mainstream media outlets. He is the host of Pathway to Victory, heard over 720 radio stations nationwide. He has a bold and practical approach to ministry and is a respected evangelical leader in the U. S. See more at www.ptv.org.
Worthy Publishing, 227 pages (hardcover).
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review.
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