Discussion Questions:
1. Tim Alberta discusses his concern over the perceived decline of “Christian America.” Do you believe this perception is valid, and how do you think historical and current pastoral roles contribute to shaping this narrative?
2. How does the tendency of Americans to self-select into narrow ideological spaces impact the church’s mission and its ability to foster diverse, meaningful relationships?
3. Markus Watson mentions efforts by Alan Hilton and Andrew Hanauer to bring churches together for dialogue. How effective do you think these initiatives are in addressing political polarization within Christian communities?
4. Reflecting on Mark Labberton’s father’s statement about religion making something big into something small, how can the church ensure that Christianity remains expansive and inclusive of all?
5. Tim Alberta remarks on the importance of reflecting on God’s sovereignty in times of political anxiety. How can Christians balance healthy civic engagement with prioritizing their heavenly citizenship?
6. Alberta points out that American privilege can lead to a disconnect from the struggle depicted in the gospels. How can Christians in affluent societies better connect with and understand the biblical narratives of suffering and resilience?
7. Some Christians view political opponents as cultural and spiritual adversaries. How do you think this conflation affects the church’s witness and mission in the broader society?
8. How can the church avoid adopting a siege mentality and instead engage constructively with the surrounding culture?
9. Tim Alberta discusses the willingness of some Christians to engage in unethical behavior to achieve a perceived greater good. How can the church maintain its integrity and witness in the face of political and cultural challenges?
10. What strategies can pastors employ to navigate the balance between addressing politically charged issues and staying focused on their primary spiritual mission without losing influence within their congregations?
