Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 4
Dan argues from a Christocentric hermeneutic (“go first to the teachings and example of Jesus”) and claims Jesus “decidedly did not use political power” and neither did the apostles; what specific moments in Jesus’ life (triumphal entry hopes, Pilate conversation, refusal to fight, etc.) most challenge your instinct to secure “good outcomes” through elections?
Another way to ask: Looking at Jesus’ life, what moments most challenge your urge to use elections to get “good outcomes”? Why do those moments bother or stretch you?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Based on the speaker’s teaching, the most challenging moments are when Jesus refuses to become the political Messiah people wanted and when he clearly separates his kingdom from violent enforcement—especially in his words to Pilate: “My kingdom is not of this world… if it were, my servants would fight.”
- Dan says Anabaptists “go first to the teachings and example of Jesus” (a “Christocentric hermeneutic”).
- He states Jesus “decidedly did not use political power,” even when “invited” and questioned about being a king.
- He highlights the triumphal entry: people welcomed Jesus with hope he would be a “physical Messiah… a new David,” but “he didn’t grab hold of that kind of power.”
- He quotes Jesus to Pilate: “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight.”
- Dan adds that “Jesus and his apostles rejected earthly power as a means of establishing” the kingdom.