Jim Talent pt. 2: Exercising Our Democratic Authority

Working with Dan Doriani

In this second segment of our two-part interview with former American Senator Jim Talent, Senator Talent and Dr. Doriani talk more broadly about the American political system, the role of citizens in a democracy, and what Christians ought to expect from their elected representatives. He encourages believers to remember that Jesus didn't come to reform people or systems but to make new people and new systems, and that to put too much hope in politics is to put "new wine in old wineskins", and yet we all bear divine authority and responsibility which we must exercise thoughtfully and humbly.

Some questions for further reflections on this episode:

• Having listened to Senator Talent, what do you think Christians should expect from politicians? If you are in a position of authority, what can people expect from you in the way you conduct your work?
• Senator Talent makes the point that, in a democracy, each individual exercises a bit of sovereign authority. How do you navigate this responsibility without putting disproportionate hope in politics?