Aligning With The Lion/Lamb In A Donkey/Elephant Zoo (Part 2)

This study is based on the sermon titled Aligning With The Lion/Lamb In A Donkey/Elephant Zoo (Part 2) by Matthew Maher below.
Looking for a resource that goes along with this message? Get the free e-book "A Kingdom Guide for Partisan Divides."

Sermon Study

In Pastor Matthew Maher's sermon, "Aligning With The Lion & Lamb In A Donkey & Elephant Zoo," he invites Christians to look beyond political allegiances and fix their eyes on Christ. Rather than adopting the polarized values of political symbols—whether the elephant's emphasis on law or the donkey’s focus on love—Christians are called to embrace both the King and His Kingdom. This balanced approach, characterized by “the law of love and the love of law,” goes beyond rules or preferences, centering on Jesus' example of truth and grace. Pastor Maher challenges believers to recognize that political ideologies may reflect aspects of God's Kingdom, but only Christ fully embodies it.

Pastor Maher also warns of a deeper, spiritual conflict that transcends political lines. Just as God planted seeds of identity, morality, and family in the Garden of Genesis, Satan attempts to distort each of these foundations. The consequences are visible today as society redefines truth, identity, and morality, often in ways that reject God’s original design. The call for believers is not merely to resist cultural trends but to remain rooted in God's Word, affirming His design for life, marriage, and integrity. As Christians witness increasing opposition to these principles, they are reminded that their purpose is to reflect God’s image and uphold His truth, even when it stands against popular opinion.

Finally, the sermon underscores the significance of maintaining a biblical perspective in today’s “zoo” of political chaos. Pastor Maher urges believers to let the Lion’s boldness and the Lamb’s compassion guide them, so that they remain anchored in faith rather than swayed by political noise. As citizens of both God's Kingdom and earthly nations, Christians are called to respect governing authorities but prioritize God's authority above all. This dual citizenship requires discernment, courage, and steadfastness, remembering that the Christian's ultimate loyalty is to the King and His Kingdom. By aligning with the values of Jesus—the Lion and the Lamb—believers can stand firm in truth while extending love and compassion to a divided world.

Discussion Questions

  • In what ways do political ideologies sometimes reflect values from God's Kingdom, and in what ways do they fall short? How can Christians keep their focus on both the King (Jesus) and His Kingdom?
       
  • How does Satan attempt to distort what God designed for good (like family and identity)? What are some practical ways to guard against these distortions?

  • When God's moral law is sidelined in society, how should Christians respond? What role does the church have in preserving moral values?

  • How does the biblical view of marriage and family go beyond societal norms? What does this reflect about God's design and purpose?

  • Romans 13:1-7 urges respect for authority, but how can Christians balance this with standing for God's truth, especially when authorities oppose biblical principles?

  • Why is Israel significant in God’s plan, and how does this relate to the church’s mission?

  • How does focusing on Christ’s boldness as the Lion and His compassion as the Lamb help us remain steadfast in today's politically charged environment?
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