Should christians lust for political power?

Should christians lust for political power?

Posted on July 10, 2008 Updated on July 10, 2008

TOPIC:  FRUITS OF THE WAR AGAINST LUST FOR POWER AS A CHRISTIAN

TEXT:     2 SAMUEL 15:1-14, 18:5-10, 14-15, MRK 10:35-45, COLOSSIANS 3:1-17, 1JOHN2:15-17

INTRODUCTION:

Lust is a strong desire to have something (power, money, set etc.) which is not a need at a given time. The lust for power is an evil desire or carving to attain to positions of authority so as to manipulate, control or use people and /or resources for selfish ends or interests.

Surprisingly, Christians also lust for power even though the bible says in I John 2:16 that “the lust of the flesh (craving of sinful man) and the lust of the eyes and the pride of life (boasting of what he has and does) comes not from the Father but the world” and that we should “do nothing out strife (selfish ambition) or vainglory (conceit)”. Philp2:3

As we examine the lives of some bible characters that rose to positions of great power and authority, I pray that God will grant us the grace to overcome in this area of life in Jesus name. Amen!

QUESTION

1.       a. Did Absalom crave for power? Why? (2 Samuel 15:4, 10)

b. what characteristic are people who lust after power most likely to have? List them.

(2 Samuel 15: 1-4, 2 Samuel 16:20-23, 17:14, 14-15)

2.       a.  As Christians should we desire these characteristics? Explain your answer.

b. what things should we seek after and from which source?

      3.      a. What things should we do away with? Where are they found? (Colossians 3:1, 12-17)

b. which is the best way to attain great power and authority according to Jesus? Did Jesus follow    

    this way? (Mark 10:42-44, 45)

4.       a. Mention some bible characters who through this way rose to position of great power and

    authority. Does their lifestyle agree with traits Christian desire?

b. what circumstances in the home or family setting can be likened to a craving for power? Give 

     examples.

MEMORY VERSE:

Colossians 3:1– if ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

1 John 2:15 – Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

The World Overcomers Church, Lagos

Bible study