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OhMyGod!

A Blog for Progressives

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Oct 16, 2019
Progressive ChristianitySociety

Power, Politics and Faith

by Glennis Johnston 0 comment
Aug 24, 2019
Progressive Christianity

Faith – Developing or Changeless?

by Glennis Johnston 1 comment
Jul 25, 2019
Society

Is Respectful Conversation Possible?

by Glennis Johnston 0 comment
Nov 26, 2017
Progressive Christianity

What Really Matters: Beliefs or Value-Based Faith?

by Glennis Johnston 1 comment
    Progressive ChristianitySociety

    Power, Politics and Faith

    written by Glennis Johnston
    Chess Competition

    I cannot remember ever hearing anyone in the church make a direct connection between our faith and international relations. Probably the closest we ever got was to pray for persecuted Christians in certain countries. (I don’t remember any prayers in church for persecuted Muslims or Hindus.) Later, when I led worship myself, I did think there was a connection, but being specific felt like entering a minefield, cause members of congregations were not keen on their ministers being ‘political’.

    And yet outside of church now, Christians as much as any other Australians are concerned about how we should play our relationship with the USA and China. I found myself wondering if being inspired by the life of Jesus has anything to contribute to our dilemma.

    Humans Beings and Nation States Want to be ‘the Biggest on the Block’ 

    Recently, I listened to John Mearsheimer,  Professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago, explain how the USA and China are headed for a battle for power and why Australia should choose to side with the USA or risk the consequences of becoming the enemy of the USA. (You can find his talk on the Radio National website under “Big Ideas” 28th August.)  In his view, military power is the most important consideration because survival is the basic human motivation.

    Without any sense of judgement, he described his own nation, the USA, as always being ruthless in seizing power. His advice is to accept that nations, like individuals, always want to be the “biggest on the block”.

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    Power, Politics and Faith was last modified: January 12th, 2021 by Glennis Johnston
    October 16, 2019 0 comment
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  • Progressive Christianity

    Faith – Developing or Changeless?

    by Glennis Johnston August 24, 2019

    Should Christian Faith Keep Evolving or Hold Steadfast to the Truth in the Face of Change? I remember many years ago closing worship services with a ‘benediction’ that included the…

  • Society

    Is Respectful Conversation Possible?

    by Glennis Johnston July 25, 2019

    In an increasingly divided world, is it possible for people of faith to demonstrate how to converse respectfully with each other, including with those who understand faith differently? Deeply personal…

  • Progressive Christianity

    What Really Matters: Beliefs or Value-Based Faith?

    by Glennis Johnston November 26, 2017

    The Definition of Christian At some point along the journey from traditional to progressive faith the question of whether beliefs or values matter most, must be faced. No matter what…

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Glennis Johnston is an ordained minister with a research degree in New Testament Studies and the author of 'Turning Points of the Spirit: A Journey from Institutional Religion to Authentic Spirituality'.

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