Exiled Insiders: Our Sempiternal, Subversive, Submissive Life in Two Kingdoms Ruled by One Crucified King

Abstract

It was easy to support the basic liberal principles on which our nation was founded when the dominant worldview in our society at least somewhat resembled a biblical one. In recent years, however, that situation appears to have changed. American Christians and their pastors now find themselves in a society that not only disagrees with but is hostile toward many articles of historic Christianity. Now what? As the sun appears to set on Christendom in America, one option is for Christians to abandon those liberal principles and grab for power while they still can. Catholic integralism and Protestant Christian Nationalism are two cases-in-point. How should a Lutheran pastor with a clear understanding of the two kingdoms confront this new reality? How do we speak publicly about contemporary issues where secular orthodoxy and biblical Christianity butt heads? What direction do we give our people as each week they traverse the threshold that takes them out of the church and into society? This essay will seek to give pastors practical guidance and gospel-driven confidence as they minister in our so-called secular age. Challenges are unavoidable. Potential pitfalls are nearly everywhere. But the opportunities in front of us are abundant and exciting.