Faith, Priorities, and Motivations: A Call to Alignment with the Gospel 

Examining the Foundations of Evangelical Actions and Attitudes 

The questions that arise about priorities and motivations are profound. They press believers to examine the underlying intentions of their actions within the framework of faith. In evangelical circles, this inquiry is crucial. It helps individuals decide if their concerns align with the mission of spreading the gospel. They also evaluate whether their endeavors glorify God. The Bible is the cornerstone of Christian belief. It consistently emphasizes the need to hold God’s truth above all else. God’s mission must transcend personal, national, or cultural affections. 

Aligning Actions with Eternal Priorities 

In an era where cultural and political narratives often dominate public discourse, believers can easily find themselves in debates. They can quickly become swept up. These debates, while significant, do not reflect the central mission of their faith. Evangelicals are called to view their lives through the lens of the gospel. This perspective prioritizes the eternal over the temporal. 

The Bible provides clear guidance on this matter. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs believers to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” This directive places divine priorities above all earthly concerns. Similarly, the Apostle Paul, in Philippians 3:20, reminds followers that their “citizenship is in heaven.” He calls them to focus on their heavenly identity. Followers should prioritize this over earthly allegiances. These teachings challenge believers to examine their pursuits critically. They should consider if activities like political activism and cultural traditions are rooted in glorifying God. Additionally, they must ensure they are sharing His truth. 

The Danger of Divided Allegiances 

A profound challenge for evangelical Christians is the temptation to allow nationalism to overshadow their commitment to Christ. Cultural identity can also overshadow their faith. It is natural and even commendable to love one’s country and heritage. Yet, these affections must be subordinate to the higher calling of faith. The Bible warns against divided allegiances in Matthew 6:24, where Jesus declares, “No one can serve two masters.” This principle applies not only to material wealth. It also applies to any earthly loyalty that conflicts with devotion to God. 

When national or cultural priorities take precedence over gospel-centered living, the risk arises of distorting the message of Christ. For example, a believer’s advocacy inadvertently reflects political ideologies more than the life-changing power of the gospel. In such cases, the focus shifts from the universal mission of salvation to a narrower agenda. This shift can alienate those who otherwise would be drawn to Christ. 

A Call to Self-Examination 

The Scriptures often call believers to examine their hearts and motivations. In Psalm 139:23-24, the psalmist prays, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” This prayer models the humility needed to align one’s priorities with God’s will. 

For evangelicals, this self-examination involves asking difficult questions. Are my actions driven by a desire to glorify God? Or are they influenced by personal biases? Do my concerns reflect the gospel’s inclusive message of love and redemption, or do they prioritize cultural or national preferences? The answers to these questions can reveal areas where repentance and realignment are needed. 

The Role of Love and Unity 

At the heart of the gospel message lies the command to love God and others. Jesus identified these as the greatest commandments. He stated in Matthew 22:37-39, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart. Love Him with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” These commandments serve as the foundation for evaluating priorities and motivations. 

It is a profound contradiction to profess love for God while harboring hatred toward fellow human beings. The essence of divine love is reflected in our ability to embrace empathy, kindness, and understanding toward one another. If we claim to revere a higher power, we must also acknowledge that every individual is His creation. Each person is worthy of respect and compassion. True faith is not merely an inward devotion but an outward expression of love that bridges divides and heals wounds. To love God is to recognize the interconnectedness of all humanity. Love is the foundation upon which both spirituality and human relationships are built. Without it, any declaration of faith risks becoming hollow and devoid of meaning. 

Love for God leads believers to prioritize His truth above everything else. Love for others calls them to act in ways that reflect Christ’s compassion and humility. This dual focus on love provides a framework for navigating complex cultural and political landscapes without compromising the gospel’s integrity. It also fosters unity within the body of Christ, which is essential for advancing the kingdom of God. Jesus prayed in John 17:21, “May they all be one.” He prayed for unity as the Father is in Him and He is in the Father. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe You sent Me.” 

Practical Steps for Realignment 

Moving toward a gospel-centered alignment of priorities requires intentionality and grace. Here are some practical steps that believers can take: 

• Study the Scriptures: Immersing oneself in God’s Word provides clarity and guidance for discerning His priorities. Passages like the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) offer foundational insights. 

• Engage in Prayer: Asking God for wisdom and discernment is crucial for aligning one’s heart with His will. Prayer also fosters humility and openness to correction. 

• Seek Accountability: Fellow believers can give valuable perspectives and encouragement for staying focused on the gospel mission. 

• Evaluate Actions and Motivations: Regularly reflecting on one’s priorities and concerns helps find areas where realignment is needed.

• Emphasize Love and Service: Demonstrating Christ’s love through acts of kindness and service reinforces the gospel’s life-changing power. 

Conclusion 

The questions about priorities and motivations are not merely theoretical. They strike at the heart of living as a follower of Christ. For evangelicals, the challenge is clear. They must make sure that their actions and concerns are firmly rooted in the gospel. It calls them to glorify God above all else. By holding God’s truth as their ultimate standard, believers can navigate cultural and political complexities with grace. Embracing the commands to love and serve, they act with integrity. In doing so, they align themselves with eternal priorities. They also become effective witnesses of the life-changing power of the gospel in a divided and searching world. 

May the love of Christ shine through us, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to those around us. Amen.

Minister A. Francine Green