The “stand or kneel” debate in the NFL has become a major political and social media buzz topic. What biblical insights can we gain about this controversial issue?
Talking Points:
- The Bible often gives us guidelines rather than rules. When this is the case, we must draw conclusions based on biblical principles.
- A lot of Christians think about this issue in terms of their patriotism or political affiliation while in many cases failing to think about it in terms of their relationships within the body of Christ. Hebrews 12:14
- The underlying principle of how we deal with one another in “gray areas” or “disputable matters” is love. Romans 13:8, Romans 14:1-13
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- How have you seen this issue about race and patriotism be divisive among your group of friends?
- What is the attitude you hold toward people who hold a different perspective than you? Explain.
- Read Hebrews 12:14. Are you willing to listen to a different perspective before you decide it is a bad or useless perspective? Explain. Why is it important to not let political/social issues divide the Church?
- Is a person who “kneels” necessarily anti-police or anti-America? Is a person who “stands” necessarily anti-justice or anti-black? Explain.
- Read Romans 13:8 and Romans 14:1-13. How do these verses apply to the “kneel/stand” debate and to other relevant issues that can be contentious among Christians?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
