|
Spiritual reality
The spiritual reality is the fundamental reality. Let us submit first to God, & resist the devil with God's armour (cf Ephesians 6:10ff).
Physical universe
Whilst we are regents of the environment, we must treat it with respect and not rape it. But we are not to go to the extreme of treating it romantically or reverentially. Remember, there is a new heaven & new earth coming.
Social relationships
Let us not treat anyone based on power, privilege, prestige, or position - we all have the same status: "made in the image of God", & everyone is worthwhile knowing. But no-one is perfect, so let us not judge, but be quick to listen, forgive, & show mercy, speaking the truth in love.
Economics
We should work firstly to provide for the real needs of people, not pander to the "fetish of the image" or greedily seek financial gain (contentment should mark the Christian, since God our Father is ultimately looking after our needs). One person's abundance is to supply another person's lack. We must also treat everyone, from consumer to employer to employee, as creative wonderful persons and not as objects or machines.
Politics
Let us respect & submit to our politicians, praying also that their decisions will not only uphold justice & righteousness, but also be most beneficial for allowing us to live godly lives & hence help others to be saved.
Religion
Other religions have elements & illustrations of the truth within them, because God has never left Himself without witness in any culture. But God's full & complete revelation of truth, and how to be free from sin & in right relationship with Him and others, is in Jesus Christ, the climax & fulfilment of Jewish revelation. Whilst respecting the rights of others, we must insist that if they are ultimately seekers of truth, they need to follow Jesus.
|
|
