Interview of Senator Josh Kimbrell

"Good morning, everyone. Today, we have the honor of welcoming South Carolina Senator Josh Kimbrell, his wife Liliya Kimbrell, 2 children, Tristan and Lucian

Senator Kimbrell, thank you for joining us to discuss the importance of the upcoming presidential election and the challenges facing Christians today. Our conversation is inspired by Acts 5:17-32, where the apostles declared, 'We must obey God rather than men.' Let's dive into how this scripture can guide us in the current political climate."

Acts 5:17–32 ESV

17 But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy 18 they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison. 19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 20 “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” 21 And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach. Now when the high priest came, and those who were with him, they called together the council, all the senate of the people of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. 22 But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, 23 “We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them we found no one inside.” 24 Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. 25 And someone came and told them, “Look! The men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people.” 26 Then the captain with the officers went and brought them, but not by force, for they were afraid of being stoned by the people. 27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, 28 saying, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.” 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”

Acts 5:29 ESV

29 But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.

Context of Scripture

1. Threat to Authority and Power

2. Fear of Popular Uprising

3. Protection of Their Own Reputation

4. Religious and Theological Opposition

5. Jealousy and Envy

6. Permissiveness and Variety in Sexual Practices

7 prostitution

8. Homosexuality and Pedophilia

9. Marriage and Fidelity

10. Use of Contraception and Abortion

11. Divorce

12. Sexual Exploitation and slavery

How does this parallel with our culture today?

1. Secularism and Pluralism, Humanism

The rise of secularism and secular humanism promotes a worldview that excludes religious or spiritual considerations from public life and emphasizes human reason and ethics without reference to God.

They see the church as irrelevant

2. Cultural Relativism

3. Moral Autonomy

Context: Many people today place a high value on personal freedom and autonomy, including moral and ethical decisions

4. Misunderstanding and Misrepresentation

Context: Christianity is sometimes misunderstood or misrepresented in the media and popular culture. Reason: Negative portrayals of Christians as intolerant, hypocritical, or out of touch with modern values can lead to a general resistance to Christian teachings. These portrayals can create a hostile environment for teaching and preaching in Jesus' name.

5. Political Correctness and Inclusivity

Context: Political correctness and a strong emphasis on inclusivity dominate much of the public discourse.

6. Legal and Institutional Restrictions

Context: In some cases, laws and institutional policies restrict religious expression in certain public spaces.

1. Erosion of Religious Freedom

Description: Laws and regulations that limit the ability of Christians to practice their faith freely can pose a significant threat.

2. Legislation Contrary to Christian Ethics

Description: Laws that conflict with Christian moral and ethical teachings can challenge believers who seek to live according to their faith.

Impact: Examples include laws that promote abortion, euthanasia, or same-sex marriage. Christians may find themselves in positions where following the law conflicts with their religious convictions, leading to moral and ethical dilemmas.

3. Political Polarization

Description: Deepening political divides can fragment the Christian community and hinder its witness.

Welcome SC Senator Josh Kimbrell

The name Kimbrell is familiar in the Boiling Springs Area, twll us about yourself.

Liliya Kimbrell, 2 children, Tristan and Lucian

National Level Questions

Host: "Senator Kimbrell, in Acts 5:29, Peter declares, 'We must obey God rather than men.' How can Christians today stand firm in their faith in the political and social arenas, particularly when facing opposition to their religious beliefs?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "What legislative measures are currently being proposed to protect religious freedom, and how can we as a faith community support these efforts to ensure our rights are preserved?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "In today’s culture, moral relativism is prevalent, often conflicting with Christian teachings. How can we, as believers, effectively advocate for absolute moral truths in a society that increasingly embraces subjective morality?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "Family values are central to the Christian faith. How do you believe the policies proposed by the presidential candidates will impact the traditional family structure, and what measures can be taken to support and strengthen families?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "Christian families are deeply invested in the education of their children. What are your views on school choice and the role of faith-based schools, and how do you think the next administration should address these issues?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "The moral and ethical tone set by our leaders is important. How do you evaluate the moral and ethical leadership of the presidential candidates, and what qualities do you believe are essential for the next president?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

State Level Questions

Host: "Senator Kimbrell, how do you envision the relationship between state government and religious institutions in South Carolina, and what policies do you support to ensure that churches can operate without undue government interference?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "Churches play a vital role in supporting communities, especially during crises. How can state and federal governments better partner with churches to provide services and support to those in need?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "What is your stance on funding and supporting faith-based initiatives that address social issues such as homelessness, addiction, and poverty in South Carolina?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "Freedom of speech, including religious speech, is under pressure in many areas. How can we ensure that pastors and church leaders can speak openly about their faith and moral issues without fear of censorship or retribution?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "Religious education is important to many Christian families. What measures can be taken at the state level to support and protect the rights of parents to choose religious education for their children?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Additional Questions

Host: "In the healthcare field, how can we protect the conscience rights of Christian healthcare providers who may object to certain procedures like abortion or gender reassignment surgeries on religious grounds?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "The definition of marriage and issues of sexuality are significant to many Christians. How do you propose we address these issues in a way that respects religious beliefs while navigating current legal frameworks?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "Christians around the world face persecution. How should the United States, under the next administration, address international religious freedom and support persecuted Christians globally?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "With the rapid advancement of technology, there are new ethical challenges. How can we ensure that technological developments respect Christian values and the dignity of human life?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "What do you believe is the appropriate role of churches and religious leaders in political advocacy, and how can they effectively influence policy while maintaining their spiritual mission?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "As a Christian serving in the Senate, how do you balance your faith with your political responsibilities, and what can other Christian leaders learn from your experience?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Host: "What advice do you have for young Christians who feel called to enter public service or political careers? How can they prepare to be effective leaders who uphold their faith in the public sphere?"

Senator Kimbrell: [Response]

Closing Remarks

Host: "Thank you, Senator Kimbrell, for sharing your insights and dedication to upholding Christian values in your service. Today's discussion has been enlightening and inspiring, reminding us of the importance of standing firm in our faith, just as the apostles did when they declared, 'We must obey God rather than men.'