In his groundbreaking book, The Politically Homeless Christian , Aaron Schafer explores what the Bible says about how we are called to engage with the world politically, what we are instructed to look for in leaders, and how we can bring the love of God to a broken and fallen world through the way we approach politics. How can Christians live out God's greatest two commandments through our approach to politics? What type of political discourse could bring people to Jesus? How do we balance the person we are voting for and the platform they represent? What issues did Jesus spend the vast majority of his time teaching on? How can we base our political beliefs on a foundation of grace and love? As followers of Jesus, we were never meant to find our home in a single political party. Our identity should be rooted firmly in Christ alone. We should be politically homeless. "From the first page of The Politically Homeless Christian, I was hooked. Aaron Schafer's words both resonated with and challenged me to renew my wholehearted commitment to King Jesus and the eternal priorities of His Kingdom. It's time for us to strip ourselves of the false identities we've wrapped ourselves in as American Evangelicals, and to reclaim the true identity God created us for as a people conformed to the image of His humble, self-sacrificial Son. We, the Church, must sow peace, unity, and the hope of Christ in a polarized and increasingly cynical, angry, and despairing culture. The Politically Homeless Christian can lead us there. I would encourage every thoughtful, serious Christian to read this book!" -Anne Cody, Director of Groups at Trinity Church "Far too often our political leanings get in the way of Christians bringing the love of Jesus to the world. The Politically Homeless Christian reminds us that we already have a ruler and we are to represent God’s kingdom here on Earth. Being politically homeless is exactly where God wants us, so that we are not conformed to this age, but transformed by the renewing of our minds. An amazing book that comes at a perfect time for this country. This was brought into my life for a reason. I highly recommend it." -Matt Emmorey, Best Selling Author of Where the Rubber Meets the The Art of Giving Up the Things That Don't Serve You
I appreciate it the author's emphasis on Scripture. He asks very good questions, questions that I feel are very important to how we think about being involved in our society. His emphasis on looking at Jesus and the sermon on the mount and what Jesus actually lived out is refreshing. I appreciate his focus on people rather than policy. His warning about political idolatry was well founded. He also gives some good practical advice.
What was difficult for me to follow was him asking a good question like "How did Jesus encourage his followers to engage with the world?" and then following up with how to choose who to vote for. There's a whole chapter called "Legislating Sin" where he talks about how we can't show anyone the love of Jesus by making good laws. I heartily agree. I just don't think we should be wasting energy by following politicians on social media and trying to see who has the best ideas about how to change society and voting for them since politicians aren't the ones who change people. We need to be showing the love of Jesus, apart from politics.
It was good for me to read this book and look at this issue from someone I don't entirely agree with. I was provoked to think deeper about these issues and where I stand. I recommend reading this book in companion with Pilgrims and Politics by Michael S. Martin.
This book is a powerful tool to help you change your political thought process... if you will let it. And I don't mean to convince you to become a Democrat or convince you to become a Republican, but as the title suggests, to honestly consider which of your political opinions and actions reflect God's two greatest commandments and to embrace political homelessness.
The Politically Homeless Christian is split into three parts. The first part uses scripture to open the reader's eyes to the reality of political idolatry. The second part focuses on some of the main issues that can lead to divisiveness in politics and how we can begin to conquer political idolatry by viewing these issues through the lens of the Bible rather than the lens of a specific party's platform. The third section is a political journal consisting of a 30-day devotional and questions about a variety of political issues to help readers respond actively to what they read. (I am still working through this portion of the book and will update my review when I finish.)
For me, the best part of this book was the author's passionate use of scripture. It leaps off the page and, towards the end, became almost palpable - like I could feel his love for scripture on the pages. This really impacted me because I've been living through a long period of disconnection and confusion from scripture. To feel that passion for the Word again gives me hope.
In all honesty, I was a little skeptical when I was first introduced to this book. I thought it would be impossible for someone who is human, broken, and biased (as we all are) to write a book about politics that genuinely takes a neutral stance and leans FULLY on scripture rather than tradition, emotion, and rhetoric. Well, Aaron Schafer did it, through the power of the Holy Spirit and what I'm sure was many countless hours of prayer for humility and wisdom. And I am so grateful to him for sharing that wisdom with us.
While there are a few things I disagree on from an Anabaptist perspective, I would highly recommend this book to any American. He tackles the current polarized political landscape and a few hot topics such as abortion. Quotes: This is the fundamental problem with putting our identity in a political party as Christians. In our polarized world, we demand that every person get in line with 100 percent of the party platform or we call you ignorant. In this environment, it is far more comfortable to choose a side that seems to fit more of our beliefs, and then embrace what we are told to think by that side on all topics. Pg 32
If we allow ourselves to fall into the trap of defending indefensible actions of a candidate or elected official, or talking ourselves into policy positions that are clearly counter to the gospel message, then we risk losing something far more important than a single election cycle. Pg 46
Jesus did not say, “Love your enemies, do not resist an evil person... except in the situation where they think differently than you politically. Then it should be a street fight! You must win at all costs!” Jesus said, “Love them.” pg 49
As Christians, the entire concept of nationalism should be completely bewildering to us. The Earth itself is not our ultimate home, and the country in which we reside certainly is not. 67
As followers of Jesus, it would serve us better to spend our mental and emotional energy looking at how we might consider attacking root issues in our society that leads to individual criminal behavior, rather than fixating our energy on how to criminalize them. Pg 83
Finally a book that can put down in words how so many Christ-following Millennials have been feeling. We identify as a Christian, but the world is telling us if that’s the case, then we need to identify with XYZ political party.
This book uses scripture from the old and New Testament to break down what we are to look for in a political leader (integrity, wisdom, etc) regardless of political party. Aaron challenges the reader to self-reflect on certain views you may have regarding different political hot-topics, wade through the media bias, and ask yourself tough questions, rather than blindly identifying with one political party over another.
I really enjoyed reading about the dangers of political idolatry (putting party before God’s greatest two commandments) and being mindful of what our actions and words say to the world about our relationship with Christ. Chapter nine was a highlight for me, as this is what years ago was the light switch for me - Jesus did not come to earth to legislate righteousness. He wanted us to change our hearts. No amount of laws in America can lead to a heart change, we cannot legislate our way into Heaven.
Aaron by and large avoids taking “sides” in this book, with the exception of chapter ten when we get a discussion on Roe v. Wade. Although it doesn’t exactly flow with the rest of the book, I think it was an important topic to include, as this is so often the very topic many Christians use to justify voting for a specific candidate, no matter what else that candidate does or says that is antithesis to Christ’s teachings.
Highly recommend to any Christian who has felt uneasy and seen the hypocrisy of the Church when it comes to politics, as you will find you are not alone. Also highly recommend to anyone in the Church who wants to understand why so many Millennials have dropped out of the Church, and how to welcome them back.
Interesting read. Though early in the book it is difficult to not think about our most recent past president, think beyond that. Even I, with my anti-two party perspective, realized that even that focus is not approaching politics as the author argues God would have us do.
The Bible verses selected for each section were perfectly on point and probably the best part of the book.
It was impressive how the author of “The Politically Homeless Christian” tied approaching the political discourse in this country to loving God and loving others, the two greatest commandments. He also referenced many other bible verses, including removing the plank from our eye before we ask others to remove the speck from their eye. I agree with examining our heart and know this is important, although not always easy. He also challenges us to consider that if a politician’s leadership would disqualify them from working at our child’s school or our employer, should we trust them running the entire country. Being a retired corporate executive, I know firsthand that effective servant leadership is invaluable. Also, Matthew 25:45, “…Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me” is a good lens through which to think about healthcare and immigration policy. The author’s challenge to think broader than the Supreme Court on the abortion issue is important. This summer I saw how a woman in Russia, Ohio runs Rustic Hope, which has provided expecting and new mothers with a place to live and resources. Rustic Hope is a great example of a community coming together to impact generations. Lastly, the author challenges us to take a 30 day break from political coverage, which I may try after the election is decided. However, one podcast I would continue is “The McLaughlin Group”, which presents the Democratic and Republican view on key issues. This is a great book and one that would work well with small groups.
The love of God in Christ Jesus is ALWAYS bigger than politics!
Could not put this book down! Great examples of how we can turn our political swords into plowshares, and be a light and voice to the nations to share the love of God in Christ. A real eye-opener about how we miss loving people like Jesus. Jesus showed us how to love people instead of getting into stingy, angry, and polarized political camps. Jesus always focused on people over religious and government rules and policies. This book is powerful and thought-provoking about how we can address the root causes of apathy, mindlessness, and heartlessness about what what important to Jesus: people. Jesus preached and lived a life full of love for God and love for people, especially the poor, the injured, the homeless, and the most vulnerable. This book offers a guide to be politically like Jesus...put people, who are made in the image of God, above politics. This book calls Christians to generous help people directly as much as possible with our actions directly and our voting indirectly.
The Politically Homeless Christian" is a compelling and insightful read that addresses the challenges faced by Christians navigating the polarized political landscape. The author brilliantly explores how faith intersects with politics, offering a balanced and thoughtful perspective that is both refreshing and deeply needed in today's divided world.
The book is well-researched and filled with personal anecdotes, historical context, and biblical insights that provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved. It challenges readers to think critically about their political affiliations and encourages a more nuanced and compassionate approach to political discourse.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to foster understanding and unity without compromising on core Christian values. It's a call to rise above partisan divides and seek common ground, making it an essential read for anyone feeling politically alienated or disillusioned.
I highly recommend "The Politically Homeless Christian" to anyone looking for a thoughtful, inspiring, and transformative read. This book will leave you feeling more informed, empowered, and hopeful about the role of faith in public life.
Wow what a book! I find myself in the middle when it comes to politics. I don’t adhere to one governing body over the other I want what is best for society as a whole. When running for our local school board it really bothers me that I have to choose a side. In Aaron’s book he had some pretty powerful statements that grabbed my attention and gave me digging deeper just as he did with this statement: “Is it possible that I have simply always held this belief and sought out sources of information that worked to confirm my already existing bias?” Or this one: “Christians refusing to hold accountable elected leaders we once supported can have a catastrophic impact on our ability to reach people for the Kingdom of God. In our desperate desire to rationalize continuing to support “our tribe” against the other side at all costs, it can be very easy to fall prey to the disease of “What about . . . ?” What a powerful and deep bought out book!! Definitely worth your time to read it!!
Another book that IM torn on. I agree, almost 100% with the premise and many of the points that the author makes. However, it was hard to read, both in style (it reads like I wrote it, and I dont mean that in a good way). And maybe this is me reading in to it because of other books of this type, but the author seemed to come across with an agenda, as if, if we didnt end up at the same conclusions that He did, that we had to continue to search within ourselves until we do. do appreciate that he does not tell us what the positions that he holds are in specific policies, though he gets close sometimes.
Overall, I appreciate this book and the message that is being presented, the premise and the message should be 5 stars, but the presentation was not for me, hence the 3 stars.
How can a book written a man in today’s polarized society bring me so much joy and peace? I went to bed happy and encouraged and continued to thank God throughout the night for always being gracious and merciful. I saw myself in this book. I saw my reflection, somethings I am okay with and other things I know I need to repent for and change. I know if you read this book you will find yourself and I hope it reflects what you’ve done well and what you also need to change. Aaron thank you for this non partisan book. I will tell everyone about it. May God continue to bless you, work through you, and work on you.
This book was recommended to me because of my unorthodox political stances. I found the title inviting. The author is asking many of the right questions, and I appreciate his frequent quotations of Scripture. However, the writing and reasoning contained within the book are weak. The author repeatedly states the obvious and adds little new knowledge or mature thinking to the subjects discussed. Additionally, he often stereotypes others with his frequent use of superlatives-a problem (over-generalizing) for which he attacks many parties. If you’re looking for a book on the kingdom of God and how to deal with modern politics, this is not one I would recommend.
This is easy read but provokes challenging thought. In this too short book Mr Schaefer does not encourage the reader to change their tribe from D to R but to read exactly what the tribes are saying in their own words and policies not from X, Instagram, Fox or MSNBC instead stay immersed in Scriptures or at least read Romans 12 as a daily reflection . He did an excellent job addressing the polarizing topic of abortion. I just wish he addressed the issue of race issued and the LBGQ Lets hope in Volume 2
This book hits the mark head-on & addresses the major issues that fuel most of our heated debates with friends & family in this country. Aaron seeks to move people away from divisive politics & back to caring about the real core issues that make a difference in people’s lives. I would strongly recommend this book to everyone in the US - Christian or non-Christian, liberal, conservative or somewhere in between!
Schafer clearly and powerfully articulates what it means to be politically homeless by being grounded in faith and following the teachings of Jesus. This book hit me with hard truths and reorganized how I think about politics and politicians and how Christians should seek to influence public policy. It is biblically based and well written. Strong work, Mr. Schafer!
Well worth reading, a fascinating and unusual book.
I was not sure what to expect with this book, but the title drew me in. In fact, I found it to be a fascinating and unusual read, containing some very interesting arguments. “We don’t want to go down a rabbit hole of tribalism that convinces us the other side is fundamentally evil and must be stopped at all costs.”
This was a great book that comforted me as well as challenged me. I wish I had read it prior to the election this year. It would have helped me a lot. I would love to see more on this topic... for instance, how to deal with Christian family members who have become nearly radicalized in their politics.
I highly recommend this book to every Christian reader. Our country is so divided, and the church is being used as a pawn by politicians. Churchgoers are encouraged to affiliate with one party based on one issue alone. The author does a great job of pointing out the danger of this and what our true purpose on earth should be.
This book addressed, with grace and truth, the paradoxical and disheartening feeling that has been laying under the surface of my attitude, mind, and heart towards our political climate for YEARS. I will return to this book before each election cycle and wish I could put it in the hands of every fellow professing following of Jesus.
Absolutely, right-on book! I really needed this! The content & the scriptures are so encouraging and challenging to me! This book goes in my”keepers” collection & I will surely here-reading it!
I am anchored in Gods word. My destiny is heaven. This book gives me the courage with Gods strength to examine my plank, and love others. Ground myself in the great commission. Love the Lord and love others. Thank you Aaron
It is a quick read and makes you really think about Christian position in politics. Does a good job of remaining neutral in the discussion of issues just pointing back to Jesus
I really appreciate the author’s perspective and willingness to write on such controversial issues. I found chapter 4 particularly interesting as he shared his story of taking inventory and re-evaluating his own political views. I, too, went through a similar experience in my 20s and would describe myself as a politically homeless Christian. Certainly will be recommending this book to friends. Well done!