Navigating Polarized Positions in Light of the Kingdom of God: Conversations with Two Christians on a Controversial Topic

Find a way this week to have two conversations (about an hour each) with two Christians holding polarized positions on any one topic. It could be a social topic that touches theology, like abortion or the death penalty. Or it could be a doctrinal topic, like necessity or mode of baptism. You are interviewing people on the same topic, but people who hold different views on it. In this conversation, explore how each person sees their view as consistent with the Kingdom of God (as you have come to learn Paul’s understanding of that notion). Note whether they can sense any tension between their loyalty to their position on the topic at hand and any ultimate loyalty to God’s ways. In a reflection paper of 3 pages following APA formatting: Define the Kingdom of God as you have come to learn Paul’s understanding of it. Briefly describe the people you interviewed and the topic on which they disagree. Then summarize the position of each person interviewed (1 page each). Articulates a clear sense of where you are on the topic at hand, even if this should be doubt and confusion. Use the remainder of the paper (no more than 2 pages) to articulate your own sense of loyalty to God and how that can guide you in navigating a polarized world. Offer specific examples, and refer heavily to the course material.