Jumpstarter 2 of 10

Direct Answer Based on Dean Taylor’s teaching, confusion shows up when my daily priorities and identity feel more rooted in “this current establishment” than in Christ’s kingdom—especially when I treat Jesus’ commands as optional “add-ons” instead of my primary marching orders. The clearest test is whether I “seek first the kingdom of God” or seek first stability, success, and acceptance in the world’s system.

Support from Transcript:

• Taylor says, “If you don’t get this, you’re not going to get the teachings of Jesus,” tying understanding to kingdom belonging.
• He observes the church struggles with Caesar/God: deciding “which things go to Caesar and if there’s anything left to give to God.”
• He describes believers as “sojourners” and “good soldier[s]… not entangled with the affairs of this life.”
• He illustrates with Germany: living among Germans yet “very clearly Americans,” and not running for “Bergermeister,” because identity was settled.
• He warns Christianity can become “a social club… I just can’t wait to get to heaven,” which shrinks the Bible’s purpose.
• He quotes Jesus’ priority: “Seek first the kingdom of God,” applying it to “careers… whatever it is.”