Introduction

Good morning! Today, we embark on a new sermon series titled “Kingdom Living in Election Season.” As we navigate the complexities of the upcoming election, we aim to explore how we can live out the principles of God’s kingdom in a time marked by division and conflict. This series continues our journey through the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on how we can influence the world with the gospel.

What Influences You?

Family and Friends

Influence is a powerful force in our lives. Our family and friends significantly shape our beliefs, behaviors, and even the sports teams we support. Often, we adopt the preferences and opinions of those closest to us, sometimes without even realizing it.

Social Media and Entertainment

Social media and entertainment are designed to influence us. Algorithms tailor content to our interests, subtly shaping our views and behaviors. From the shows we binge-watch on Netflix to the posts we like on Instagram, these platforms have a profound impact on our daily lives.

Who Do You Influence?

Your Circle of Influence

Everyone has a circle of influence, regardless of their social status or number of followers. Whether it’s your family, friends, or coworkers, your actions and words impact those around you. As followers of Christ, we are called to use this influence to advance God’s kingdom.

Jesus on Influence: Salt of the Earth

Matthew 5:13

In Matthew 5:13, Jesus calls us to be the “salt of the earth.” But what does this mean? Salt was a valuable commodity in biblical times, used primarily as a preservative and a purifier. When Jesus uses this imagery, He is calling us to live lives that preserve and purify the world around us.

The Purifying Power of Salt

In the Old Testament, salt was often used in grain offerings as a symbol of purification (Leviticus 2:13). Just as salt purified the grain, the blood of Jesus purifies us when we put our faith in Him. Being the salt of the earth means living out this purified life, influencing the world through our relationship with Jesus.

The Danger of Losing Our Saltiness

Tarnished Influence

Jesus warns that if salt loses its taste, it is no longer good for anything. This serves as a caution against living a life that claims Jesus on Sunday but conforms to the world on Monday. Once we lose our influence, it can be challenging to regain it.

Consistent Kingdom Living

To maintain our influence, we must consistently live out our faith. This means allowing Jesus to influence every aspect of our lives, from our thoughts and actions to our interactions with others. Our influence should always point people to the gospel.

Life Application

Reflect and Evaluate

As we navigate this election season, it’s crucial to reflect on what or who is influencing us. Are there things in our lives that are hindering our ability to influence others for the gospel? Here are some questions to consider:

1. **What or who am I allowing to influence me?**

– Is there something that needs to change to ensure my influence aligns with the gospel?

2. **Who do I have influence with, and am I using that influence for the sake of the gospel?**

– Are there areas in my life where I need to be more intentional about sharing my faith?

3. **How can I be an influence for the gospel during the election season?**

– Am I prioritizing my opinions over the opportunity to share the gospel?

Challenge for the Week

This week, I challenge you to evaluate your influences and make any necessary changes to ensure they align with your faith. Consider how you can use your influence to advance God’s kingdom, especially during this election season. Remember, our ultimate goal is to point people to Jesus, not to win arguments or push personal preferences.

Conclusion

Kingdom living means using our influence for the sake of the gospel. As we navigate the complexities of the election season, let’s commit to being the salt of the earth, preserving and purifying the world around us through our relationship with Jesus. Let’s pray for the wisdom and courage to live out this calling in every aspect of our lives.

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Thank you for joining us today. If you have any questions or need further guidance, please feel free to reach out. Let’s continue to seek God’s wisdom and live out our faith in a way that influences the world for His kingdom.