The Christian and the Social Order, Peace and War, Religious Liberty, the Family

1. The Christian and the Social Order

Introduction

Read from the BF&M 2000

Christians should work to influence society for good, addressing issues like injustice, poverty, and immorality, while sharing the Gospel.

Matthew 5:13–16 ESV

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Discuss:

How can we be "salt and light" in addressing social issues like poverty, racism, or ethical concerns?

What are some social issues in our community that we can address as Christians (e.g., homelessness, education, or moral decline)?

How can we balance speaking truth with showing love when addressing controversial topics?

Application:

Identify one social issue in your community and commit to taking action (e.g., volunteering at a food bank, advocating for the vulnerable).

2. Peace and War

Introduction

Read from the BF&M 2000

Christians are called to seek peace and reconciliation, but war may be justified in cases of defense or to prevent greater evil, always with a heart for peace.

Matthew 5:9 ESV

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Romans 13:1–4 ESV

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer.

Discuss:

What does it mean to be a peacemaker in a world with conflict? When might war be justified, and how do we maintain a heart for peace?

How can we promote peace in our personal relationships, workplaces, or communities?

What are some biblical examples of seeking peace, and how do they apply to modern conflicts (e.g., global wars or cultural divisions)?

Application:

Practice being a peacemaker this week—resolve a conflict, pray for peace in a troubled area, or show kindness to someone you disagree with.

3. Religious Liberty

Introduction

Read from the BF&M 2000

God alone is Lord of the conscience, and all people should have the freedom to worship without coercion; Baptists support the separation of church and state to protect this freedom.

Acts 5:29 ESV

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

1 Timothy 2:1–2 ESV

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.

Discuss:

Why is religious liberty important for all people, not just Christians? How do we balance submission to authority with obedience to God?

Have you ever faced or witnessed challenges to religious freedom? How did you respond?

Why is it important to defend religious liberty for people of all faiths, even those we disagree with?

Application:

Pray for leaders and religious freedom worldwide, and consider supporting organizations that defend this right.

4. The Family

Introduction

Read from the BF&M 2000

The family is God’s foundational institution, with marriage as a lifelong union between one man and one woman, and parents responsible for raising children in the faith.

Ephesians 5:22–23 ESV

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.

Deuteronomy 6:6–7 ESV

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Discuss:

What does a godly marriage look like? How can parents pass down faith to their children in today’s culture?

What are some challenges families face today in living out God’s design for marriage and parenting?

How can the church support families in fulfilling their biblical roles?

Application:

Spend intentional time strengthening your family—have a family devotional, affirm your spouse, or mentor a younger family member in the faith.