Somali Terrorists Threaten to Attack Western Malls

 © 2014 The Wired Word

www.thewiredword.com

Somalia-based terror group Al-Shabaab released a video last Saturday calling for so-called "lone wolf" attacks on shopping centers in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. The video referenced the group's September 2013 four-day siege in a mall catering to the affluent in Nairobi, Kenya, in which more than 60 people were killed.

Among the malls mentioned in the video as possible targets are the West Edmonton Mall (Alberta, Canada) and the Mall of America (in a near suburb of Minneapolis, Minnesota). The largest Somali population in the United States lives in Minneapolis.

Shoppers had various reactions to the threat. "I'm scared, because I have kids," Brittany Segler told CNN affiliate WCCO in Minneapolis.

"We take any potential threat seriously and respond appropriately," a spokesperson for the Mall of America said. "We have implemented extra security precautions; some may be noticeable to guests, and others won't be."

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, speaking in cooperation with the FBI, admitted last Sunday that the Al-Shabaab video could inspire violent action by extremists and that they don't know "when the next bad actor" will attack. He said they are unaware of "credible or specific evidence" suggesting a U.S. mall attack is imminent, but he advised Americans to use caution.

More on this story can be found at these links:

Al-Shabaab Threatens Malls, Including Some in U.S.; FBI Downplays Threat. CNN
Business SWOT Analysis. Business Insurance Quotes

The Big Questions

1. Author Maduro Ash wrote: "Threats don't work with the person who's got nothing to lose." Seventeenth-century French dramatist Pierre Corneille wrote: "He who does not fear death cares naught for threats." How might these quotes apply to Christians facing threats today? 

2. Respond to this from a blogger who goes by "Chris M.": "The Promises of God are greater than the threats of the enemy." What are some of the promises of God that you cling to when you feel threatened?

3. What is the core mission of the church under threat? How should believers think and act in the face of threats? How much should we change our lifestyle or behavior in order to be prudent? To what extent do changes in our lives equal a triumph by those who threaten us regardless of whether they carry out their threats? To what extent does God call us to to eliminate threats or to protect ourselves or others from threats?

4. In addition to threats, what else might distract believers from their core mission? How can you minimize those distractions and focus on what God has called you to do?

5. As a group, brainstorm a list of everything you might fear if you allowed yourself to go down that path. How long is the list? How reasonable is it to be afraid of every single possibility? Respond to this from Christian author Max Lucado: "Can you imagine a life with no fear? What if faith, not fear, was your default reaction to threats?" (See also question #6 under "For Futher Discussion.")

Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope
Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion:

Daniel 3:28-29
Nebuchadnezzar said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants who trusted in him. They disobeyed the king’s command and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God.Therefore I make a decree: Any people, nation, or language that utters blasphemy against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego shall be torn limb from limb, and their houses laid in ruins; for there is no other god who is able to deliver in this way." (For context, read 3:1-30.)

This chapter records the action of Babylon's King Nebuchadnezzar to solidify his iron grip on his subjects by building a huge gold statue they were required to bow before and worship. Those who refused were immediately to be burned alive in a blazing furnace. Understandably, the people complied -- all except the Jewish officials Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When Nebuchadnezzar heard about their resistance, he flew into a "furious rage" (v. 13). Yet, wanting to appear magnanimous, he gave them another chance, even providing pleasant music to make submission to his command more palatable. But they were not free to choose without penalty; his ultimatum was the same: bow down and live, or refuse and be burned to a crisp. The trio replied that whether or not God delivered them, they would still not worship anyone but God. True to his word, the king bound them and threw them into the incinerator, but was shocked to see them walking freely in the raging inferno -- along with a fourth man having the appearance of a god.

Questions: What do you think you would have done had you been one of the "three Hebrew children" asked to choose between faith in God and a fiery furnace? What gave them courage in their time of need?

Mark 13:9-13
[Jesus said,] "As for yourselves, beware; for they will hand you over to councils; and you will be beaten in synagogues; and you will stand before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them. And the good news must first be proclaimed to all nations. When they bring you to trial and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what you are to say; but say whatever is given you at that time, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death; and you will be hated by all because of my name. But the one who endures to the end will be saved." (For context, read 13:9-27.)

Jesus warned his disciples to be ready for persecution, which would surely befall his followers. But their suffering would lead to these positive ends: They would gain access to leaders they would never otherwise have met, in order to bear witness to Christ; the good news would be proclaimed to all nations; the Holy Spirit would speak through them to their captors.

Questions: What exactly does Jesus mean when he tells his disciples, "Beware"? Under what circumstances might brothers betray brothers, fathers their children, and children their parents, even condemning them to death? How would true followers of Jesus behave toward those who had betrayed them? What does it mean to "endure to the end"? What is the nature of salvation for those who have endured to the end, since clearly they are not necessarily saved from suffering or death?

Acts 4:29-31
[Peter and John prayed,] "And now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus." When they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness. (For context, read 4:13-31.)

After healing a lame man in the name of Jesus, Peter and John came under the scrutiny of the religious authorities. They could tell they were "uneducated and ordinary men" (v. 13), yet they had a boldness that reminded them of Jesus. They couldn't refute that a miracle had occurred, since the healed man was standing right in front of them. But they ordered them to stop speaking and teaching in Jesus' name. Peter and John stated that they couldn't stop witnessing about what they had seen and heard. Although the authorities wanted to punish them, the people praised God for the healing of the man, so they just threatened Peter and John again and let them go.

Upon their release, the apostles met with other believers to pray. They addressed God as "Sovereign Lord," the creator of heaven and earth, who by the Holy Spirit foretold humanity's rebellion against God and against his Messiah (or "anointed one" -- cf. Psalm 2:1-2). But all this happened by God's hand at work according to his plan.

Questions: How did this understanding of who God is and how God was working behind the scenes influence how the disciples prayed while under threat? For what do you pray when you feel threatened? How might your witness change if you followed the disciples' example in your prayer life?

Acts 7:55-56, 59-60
But filled with the Holy Spirit, he gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look," he said, "I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!" ... While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he died. (For context, read 6:8--7:60.)

This passage gives Luke's account of deacon Stephen's witness as the first martyr for Christ. It had not been so long since Jesus' own death, so his followers had to be aware that they were targets as well (just as Jesus had warned them to expect -- see Matthew 10:24-25).

Questions: What needs to happen in our lives in order that we might be filled with the Holy Spirit and be able to see God's glory and Jesus standing in the place of victory, even while the stones are flying all around our heads? Imagine yourself facing angry accusers who demand that you recant your faith in Jesus. What would you say? And how would you pray for your would-be executioners?

Revelation 12:10-11
Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming, "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Messiah, for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. But they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they did not cling to life even in the face of death. NOTE: NIV translates the last phrase, "they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death." (For context, read 12:7-12.) 

The Book of Revelation was written to strengthen and encourage the late first-century Christian church under fire. This passage brings us to the point in John's vision when Satan and his forces have been expelled from heaven, landing on earth to release their fury here. While heaven has achieved a great victory and rejoices, the violence against God's people increases on earth, and with it, their grief. Still, we are "more than conquerors through him who loved us" (Romans 8:37).

Questions: Give examples of how believers gain victory over their accusers "by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony" and by not "loving their lives" even when facing death. How powerfully are these three forces at work in your life? Take time to pray for each other in the areas where you feel you are weakest.

For Further Discussion

1. A SWOT analysis is a popular business model designed to help companies evaluate internal strengths and weaknesses, which they may change, and external opportunities and threats, over which they have no control. Using this model as a template, how would you define the greatest threats to the Church (capital "C") today? What about its greatest weaknesses? How would you describe its greatest strengths? Its most exciting opportunities? Now apply this template to your own local church: How would you describe those four factors relative to your own faith community? How prepared are you to face potential threats? To maximize opportunities? How can you address internal weaknesses effectively and build up strengths?

2.  Proverbs 22:13 reads: "The lazy person says, 'There is a lion outside! I shall be killed in the streets!'" To what extent might laziness be a factor in the church's inability to handle threats effectively? What can you do to minimize the drag laziness has on your responding to the call of God on your life?

3. Respond to this from TWW guest contributor Mary Sells: "Fear is the first step to controlling people. The more afraid we are of terrorism that may or may not happen, the more the terrorists have won us over to their control. We can look to Peter and the other followers of Jesus who were so afraid at the time of Jesus' death that they hid and/or denied him -- they gave control to the Romans and to the status quo of their community. They had to get beyond their fear to do God's will and to trust in Jesus. If we keep looking for terrorists among us and change our lives to stop doing the good that God wants us to do while focusing our efforts on preparing for the end, aren't we the same? Every breath from God is a pure gift, and we are told to always be prepared for Jesus' return -- the end of life as we know it. It is more satisfying to me to think of how I am spiritually preparing for that moment than to worry if today is the day I am going to get hit by a bus, get shot by a terrorist or drop dead from a heart attack. Shall I fear for my body, or shall I have joy for [however] and whenever God wills me to be in heaven -- and will I live my life in preparation for that moment?"

4. Read Acts 1:8-11, Luke's account of Jesus' last instructions and promises to his disciples before his ascension into heaven. What task does he entrust to them? Why do the "two men in white robes" seem to chide them? What does this tell us about the kind of experiences that can distract us from our core mission, and how can believers stay focused on what Jesus has called us to do?

5. TWW contributor and author Frank Ramirez shared the following paragraphs from a book he is writing:

"A fierce phase of persecution of Christians began with the Emperor Decias around the years 250-251 and continued until the legalization of Christianity in 313. While the martyrologies of the period reflect a willingness on the part of many Christians to witness to their faith with their lives, the record of the Oxyrhynchus Papyri indicates that some leaders were willing to give the appearance of cooperation in obeying imperial edicts while playing dumb about the actual treasures hidden by their churches, or even, as with the case of one Christian named Kopres, finding a compromise when faced with the demand to demonstrate loyalty by sacrificing to the gods. Kopres, who seems to be a member of the Oxyrhynchus, Egypt, Christian church, closed his letter to his wife with the number 99, a numerical code for 'Amen.' This is a sign that Kopres did not wish to make his Christian connection too obvious. In this letter concerning his business trip to Alexandria, Egypt, he wrote:

Before anything else I pray that you are well in the Lord God. I want you to know that we got here on the 11th and it was made known to us that newcomers are required to sacrifice, so I made my brother power of attorney ... (Papyrus Oxyrhynchus 2601, my translation).

The sacrifice in question is the proof required of everyone to demonstrate they are not Christians by making an offering to the local god. The 'brother' is likely a pagan friend who made the sacrifice in his place, though it could have been a non-Christian relative. Kopres found a way to conduct his official business in an Alexandrian court through the help of a non-Christian friend. He found a way to get around the sacrifice without making a profession of faith."

How does Kopres' response to a threat compare to the stand taken by the three young men in the story from Daniel 3? Should Kopres have taken a stand for Christ? Was it smarter to avoid martyrdom if possible? Do you have friends who would cover for you in a difficult circumstance? Would you cover for a Muslim secret convert to Christianity whose conversion is seen by some extremists as apostasy punishable by death?

6. Discuss the following, shared by TWW team member Jim Berger: According to the Mayo Clinic, the top five things that parents say they're worried about when it comes to their kids are:
1. Kidnapping
2. School Snipers
3. Terrorists
4. Dangerous Strangers
5. Drugs
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the top five things that cause harm to young people are:
1. Car Accidents
2. Homicide (usually committed by someone they know)
3. Child Abuse
4. Suicide
5. Drowning
Notice that the reality never shows up among the concerns. Some people see only despair and ugliness in life. Others find hope in the midst of bleakness. Jesus tells us to purify our minds. In doing so, we shall see God. And we shall discover truth in this life and move past the fears, lies and delusions that surround us and bombard us daily.

Responding to the News

Brainstorm to come up with Bible verses upon which you can meditate to strengthen your faith for the day of trouble. If you memorize one verse a week, by the end of a year you will have memorized 52 verses. What you have stored in your heart God can call to your mind when you are under pressure.

Closing Prayer

In the face of threats, Almighty God, we turn to you. Strengthen us by your Word and your Spirit to focus on the work to which you have called us. Let us not be discouraged, deterred or derailed from taking up our cross and following Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life, knowing that those who believe in him, even though they die, will live forever. Amen.

Islamic State Beheads 21 Egyptian Christians

 © 2014 The Wired Word

www.thewiredword.com

The militant group ISIS, also known as the Islamic State, beheaded a group of Egyptian Coptic Christians on a beach in Libya, according to a video released last Sunday. The video shows a mass execution, with jihadists in black standing behind each of the victims, who are handcuffed and dressed in orange jumpsuits. A masked English-speaking jihadist says, "The sea you have hidden Sheikh Osama bin Laden's body in, we swear to Allah, we will mix it with your blood." Then the victims are pushed to the ground and beheaded.

Such brutality has been a hallmark of ISIS in Iraq and Syria, but this violence is believed to have been carried out by a newly formed affiliate of ISIS in Libya. The Copts killed in the video had been taken hostage in Libya several weeks earlier.

Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the president of Egypt, confirmed that Egyptian martyrs had fallen victim to terrorism. He called for a meeting of the Council of National Defense, expressed his condolences to the Egyptian people and scheduled seven days of official mourning. He also said that his country had the right to retaliate for the killings. On television, he said Egypt would choose the "necessary means and timing to avenge the criminal killings."

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry on Sunday. He offered his condolences on behalf of the American people and "strongly condemned the despicable act of terror," according to the State Department. The White House also condemned the attack, saying that the barbarity of ISIS "knows no bounds."

Members of the United Nations Security Council also criticized "the heinous and cowardly apparent murder" of the 21 Egyptians. Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, condemned the beheadings and said, "They were killed simply for the fact that they were Christians."

On Monday, one day after the video was released, Egyptian jets bombed Islamic State targets in Libya. The pre-dawn strike hit militant camps, training sites and weapons storage areas. "We must take revenge for the Egyptian blood that was shed," said a statement from Egypt's military. Egypt also wants to prevent its neighbor from becoming a haven for jihadists.

Libya's air force -- which is loyal to Libya's internationally recognized government -- also participated in Monday's attack, and reported losses among Islamic State individuals, ammunition and communication centers.

Coptic Christians are part of the Orthodox Christian tradition, one of three main Christian traditions alongside Catholicism and Protestantism. Copts trace their history to the apostle Mark, the New Testament figure believed responsible for introducing Christianity to Egypt in the first century. The land of Egypt holds a special place for Coptic Christians because of the story of the flight of the family of Jesus to Egypt to escape bloodthirsty King Herod, according to the Gospel of Matthew. Copts separated from other Christians in the fifth century over the definition of the divinity of Jesus Christ.

Egypt remains the home of the largest group of Copts in the world. They make up about 10 percent of the nation's 80 million citizens, most of whom are Sunni Muslims. There are approximately 90,000 Copts in the United States, organized under 170 parishes.

Egypt is not the only Arab nation drawn into confrontation with ISIS by the gruesome killings of its citizens. Jordan has taken a leading role in air strikes in Syria and Iraq, following the release of a video showing a captured Jordanian pilot being burned alive by ISIS.

"I demand none of them amongst us be kept alive," said the pilot's grieving father. "I demand the revenge be greater than executing prisoners." A Jordanian army spokesman promised, "Our punishment and revenge will be as huge as the loss of the Jordanians." A politician in Jordan said, "Let's kill their children! Let's kill their women!"

President Obama used more measured language in promising that the Islamic State will be "degraded and ultimately defeated."

More on this story can be found at these links:

ISIS Video Appears to Show Beheadings of Egyptian Coptic Christians in Libya. CNN News
Islamic State Video Shows Beheadings of Egyptian Christians in Libya. The New York Times
Egypt Bombs Islamic State Targets in Libya After 21 Egyptians Beheaded. Reuters
Egypt Bombs Islamic State Targets in Libya After Beheading Video. The Washington Post
Revenge From Jordan Won't Bring Peace: Column. USA Today

The Big Questions

1. The desire for revenge is understandable, but will it bring peace to the Middle East? Why or why not? Do you think the Jordanian and Egyptian responses break or continue the cycle of violence? What kind of military response serves the cause of justice?

2. Mahatma Gandhi said, "An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind." How is this true in international affairs? In your own personal relationships?

3. Abraham Lincoln advised that the best way to destroy an enemy is to turn him into a friend. Where have you seen this happen in history? In the life of the church? In your personal life?

4. After the beheadings, The White House said, "We call on all Libyans to strongly reject this and all acts of terrorism and to unite in the face of this shared and growing threat." What, if anything, can Americans do to befriend Libyans and turn them away from ISIS?

5. What can American Christians do to show support for Egyptian Christians? How can you work to unite Christians across national and denominational lines?

6. When do you feel tempted to seek revenge? How can your Christian faith help you to rechannel this desire? How can forgiveness break the cycle of violence?

Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope
Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion:

Leviticus 19:18
You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. (For context, read 19:11-18.)

God gives Moses and the Israelites instructions in moral holiness, including the command to "love your neighbor as yourself." This love is connected to prohibitions against stealing, lying, defrauding, slandering and rendering unjust judgments. Also prohibited is the taking of vengeance and bearing of grudges. In short, Moses teaches that we should treat our neighbors exactly as we would like to be treated.

Questions: After having evil done to you, what would it mean to respond with love instead of vengeance? When hurt by another, what is the benefit of offering forgiveness instead of bearing a grudge?

Proverbs 16:7
When the ways of people please the LORD, he causes even their enemies to be at peace with them. (For context, read 16:1-8.)

The Book of Proverbs challenges us to see the world through God's eyes, instead of through human eyes. When we do this, we "commit [our] work to the LORD" (v. 3) and trust that the arrogant "will not go unpunished" (v. 5). We discover that "a little with righteousness" is better than "large income with injustice" (v. 8). Proverbs predicts that such a way of life can lead to reconciliation with enemies.

Questions: What does it mean to see the world through God's eyes and focus on his righteousness? How could our ways be more pleasing to God, and what effect might this have on our enemies?

Matthew 5:43-44
You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. (For context, read 5:38-48.)

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenges us to set aside the old standard "an eye for an eye" and instead follow the guidance "Do not resist an evildoer" (vv. 38-39). The Levitical standard "love your neighbor" is replaced by the commandment "love your enemies." Jesus offers this instruction so that we may be children of our Father in heaven (v. 45).

Questions: How is justice served by the maxim "an eye for an eye"? What problems does it cause? How can love of enemies diminish violence? At what cost? When have you been able to show love to an enemy, and what was the result?

Luke 9:51-55
When the days drew near for [Jesus] to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; but they did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" But he turned and rebuked them. (No context needed.)

Jews and Samaritans shared the same religious roots, just as Jews, Christians and Muslims all trace their spiritual heritage to Abraham. But there was disagreement between Jews and Samaritans, and often a lack of mutual respect. The desire of James and John to see the inhospitable Samaritans destroyed was an understandable reaction, given the conflict between these groups.

Questions: Why does Jesus rebuke his disciples? What message is he giving us about anger and revenge? In your opinion, what kind of relationship did Jesus want to have with the Samaritans?

Luke 23:34
Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." (For context, read 23:32-43.)

Jesus is crucified between two criminals, and asks God to forgive the people who are putting him to death. He grasps that his killers are acting out of ignorance as well as malice. Jesus also shows compassion to the criminal who asks to be remembered in the kingdom of God, saying, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise" (v. 43).

Questions: What motivates Jesus to forgive the people who are killing him on the cross? How does this act affect the people around him? What is the impact of forgiveness on violence? Where do you see opportunities to practice the forgiveness of Jesus?

Romans 12:19-20
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads." (For context, read 12:9-21.)

Paul tells the Romans about the marks of a true Christian: love, honor, zeal, patience, perseverance and hospitality. He also says, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought of what is noble in the sight of all" (v. 17). He concludes by recommending that they leave the work of vengeance to God, and make an effort to overcome evil with good.

Questions: What is the significance of letting God show vengeance, instead of taking it into our own hands? How do you conquer your enemies by showing kindness to them? When have you done this in your own life?

1 Peter 3:9
Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse; but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing. (For context, read 3:8-22.)

Peter tells his followers to repay evildoers with a blessing because "the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous" (v. 12). He predicts that "even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed" (v. 14). Peter encourages us to make our Christian testimonies with gentleness and reverence, and to be willing to suffer for doing good. This puts us in line with our Lord Jesus, who "was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit" (v. 18).

Questions: What is the value of suffering to a Christian? When have you experienced a blessing after suffering for doing what is right? In concrete ways, how can we repay evildoers with a blessing? What does it mean to be made alive in the spirit?

For Further Discussion

1. In the pursuit of justice, how can a good offense be the best defense? When you strike back at someone who is trying to kill you, is that "revenge"? Why or why not? How should the United States work to degrade and defeat ISIS?

2. The General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom has said we must pray for and forgive Islamic State militants in the wake of the beheading of 21 Egyptian Christians by the terrorist group. "I think as Christians that's our mandate, it's what we do," Bishop Angaelos told Christianity Today. "Of course it will sometimes go against what people want, but as Christians we must forgive. ... If we don't forgive what do we have? Retaliation, resentment and anger, but no solution and no closure." The bishop remains adamant that "every life is sacred and every death tragic," including those of militants. "The particular brutality demonstrated in this instance and others like it shows not only a disregard for life but a gross misunderstanding of its sanctity and equal value in every person." Discuss.

3. If Christians take the position that ISIS should be wiped out, are they preventing jihadists from having the chance to repent and receive salvation? What are the implications of saying that some people are irredeemable? Should we be motivated so much by the drive for self-preservation that we cannot begin to conceive of the possibility that God could use martyrs to win over even some of the worst terrorists?

4. A member of The Wired Word editorial team just finished reading the book I Shall Not Hate, by a Palestinian Muslim physician who lost three daughters to misdirected Israeli bombs. From his story, she learned, "Revenge begets revenge. One might think there is justice in responding to terror with warfare but it ultimately leads to further killing." Where have you seen revenge continuing to drive the cycle of violence? When is warfare effective, and when is it ineffective? How can bloodshed be stopped?

5. In Dubai, five dialogues have been held between Muslims and Christians since 2005. They began when 120 students gathered in a lecture hall to discuss religious differences, and in 2013, over 700 people discussed the question "How can we find forgiveness from a holy God?" Said one young man from the Middle East, "All of the problems and troubles and fights happening in the world is because there is no forgiveness." How could forgiveness help alleviate problems and troubles in the world? In your community? In your church?

6. A nonprofit called "Bridges of Understanding" arranges videoconferences between high school students in the United States and the Middle East. The divide between Americans and Arabs is bridged by a focus on commonalities. "I was so surprised to find out that the Arab students seemed to be completely normal," said one American student, "and similar to me." Where do you see value in this type of dialogue? How could you be involved in such conversations, locally or internationally?

Responding to the News

Following the teachings of Jesus, take time to pray for those who persecute you. Reach out to someone from a different race, culture or religion, and try to establish a relationship. Focus on someone who has been an enemy to you, and think of ways that you might be reconciled and even become friends.

Closing Prayer

Help us, Lord, to overcome evil with good, and to reach out in Christian love to those who seek to do us harm. May we build relationships that break the cycle of violence in our homes, churches and world. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Islamic State Beheads 21 Egyptian Christians

The militant group ISIS, also known as the Islamic State, beheaded a group of Egyptian Coptic Christians on a beach in Libya, according to a video released last Sunday. The video shows a mass execution, with jihadists in black standing behind each of the victims, who are handcuffed and dressed in orange jumpsuits. A masked English-speaking jihadist says, "The sea you have hidden Sheikh Osama bin Laden's body in, we swear to Allah, we will mix it with your blood." Then the victims are pushed to the ground and beheaded.

Such brutality has been a hallmark of ISIS in Iraq and Syria, but this violence is believed to have been carried out by a newly formed affiliate of ISIS in Libya. The Copts killed in the video had been taken hostage in Libya several weeks earlier.

Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the president of Egypt, confirmed that Egyptian martyrs had fallen victim to terrorism. He called for a meeting of the Council of National Defense, expressed his condolences to the Egyptian people and scheduled seven days of official mourning. He also said that his country had the right to retaliate for the killings. On television, he said Egypt would choose the "necessary means and timing to avenge the criminal killings."

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry on Sunday. He offered his condolences on behalf of the American people and "strongly condemned the despicable act of terror," according to the State Department. The White House also condemned the attack, saying that the barbarity of ISIS "knows no bounds."

Members of the United Nations Security Council also criticized "the heinous and cowardly apparent murder" of the 21 Egyptians. Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, condemned the beheadings and said, "They were killed simply for the fact that they were Christians."

On Monday, one day after the video was released, Egyptian jets bombed Islamic State targets in Libya. The pre-dawn strike hit militant camps, training sites and weapons storage areas. "We must take revenge for the Egyptian blood that was shed," said a statement from Egypt's military. Egypt also wants to prevent its neighbor from becoming a haven for jihadists.

Libya's air force -- which is loyal to Libya's internationally recognized government -- also participated in Monday's attack, and reported losses among Islamic State individuals, ammunition and communication centers.

Coptic Christians are part of the Orthodox Christian tradition, one of three main Christian traditions alongside Catholicism and Protestantism. Copts trace their history to the apostle Mark, the New Testament figure believed responsible for introducing Christianity to Egypt in the first century. The land of Egypt holds a special place for Coptic Christians because of the story of the flight of the family of Jesus to Egypt to escape bloodthirsty King Herod, according to the Gospel of Matthew. Copts separated from other Christians in the fifth century over the definition of the divinity of Jesus Christ.

Egypt remains the home of the largest group of Copts in the world. They make up about 10 percent of the nation's 80 million citizens, most of whom are Sunni Muslims. There are approximately 90,000 Copts in the United States, organized under 170 parishes.

Egypt is not the only Arab nation drawn into confrontation with ISIS by the gruesome killings of its citizens. Jordan has taken a leading role in air strikes in Syria and Iraq, following the release of a video showing a captured Jordanian pilot being burned alive by ISIS.

"I demand none of them amongst us be kept alive," said the pilot's grieving father. "I demand the revenge be greater than executing prisoners." A Jordanian army spokesman promised, "Our punishment and revenge will be as huge as the loss of the Jordanians." A politician in Jordan said, "Let's kill their children! Let's kill their women!"

President Obama used more measured language in promising that the Islamic State will be "degraded and ultimately defeated."

More on this story can be found at these links:

ISIS Video Appears to Show Beheadings of Egyptian Coptic Christians in Libya. CNN News
Islamic State Video Shows Beheadings of Egyptian Christians in Libya. The New York Times
Egypt Bombs Islamic State Targets in Libya After 21 Egyptians Beheaded. Reuters
Egypt Bombs Islamic State Targets in Libya After Beheading Video. The Washington Post
Revenge From Jordan Won't Bring Peace: Column. USA Today

The Big Questions

1. The desire for revenge is understandable, but will it bring peace to the Middle East? Why or why not? Do you think the Jordanian and Egyptian responses break or continue the cycle of violence? What kind of military response serves the cause of justice?

2. Mahatma Gandhi said, "An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind." How is this true in international affairs? In your own personal relationships?

3. Abraham Lincoln advised that the best way to destroy an enemy is to turn him into a friend. Where have you seen this happen in history? In the life of the church? In your personal life?

4. After the beheadings, The White House said, "We call on all Libyans to strongly reject this and all acts of terrorism and to unite in the face of this shared and growing threat." What, if anything, can Americans do to befriend Libyans and turn them away from ISIS?

5. What can American Christians do to show support for Egyptian Christians? How can you work to unite Christians across national and denominational lines?

6. When do you feel tempted to seek revenge? How can your Christian faith help you to rechannel this desire? How can forgiveness break the cycle of violence?

Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope
Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion:

Leviticus 19:18
You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. (For context, read 19:11-18.)

God gives Moses and the Israelites instructions in moral holiness, including the command to "love your neighbor as yourself." This love is connected to prohibitions against stealing, lying, defrauding, slandering and rendering unjust judgments. Also prohibited is the taking of vengeance and bearing of grudges. In short, Moses teaches that we should treat our neighbors exactly as we would like to be treated.

Questions: After having evil done to you, what would it mean to respond with love instead of vengeance? When hurt by another, what is the benefit of offering forgiveness instead of bearing a grudge?

Proverbs 16:7
When the ways of people please the LORD, he causes even their enemies to be at peace with them. (For context, read 16:1-8.)

The Book of Proverbs challenges us to see the world through God's eyes, instead of through human eyes. When we do this, we "commit [our] work to the LORD" (v. 3) and trust that the arrogant "will not go unpunished" (v. 5). We discover that "a little with righteousness" is better than "large income with injustice" (v. 8). Proverbs predicts that such a way of life can lead to reconciliation with enemies.

Questions: What does it mean to see the world through God's eyes and focus on his righteousness? How could our ways be more pleasing to God, and what effect might this have on our enemies?

Matthew 5:43-44
You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. (For context, read 5:38-48.)

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenges us to set aside the old standard "an eye for an eye" and instead follow the guidance "Do not resist an evildoer" (vv. 38-39). The Levitical standard "love your neighbor" is replaced by the commandment "love your enemies." Jesus offers this instruction so that we may be children of our Father in heaven (v. 45).

Questions: How is justice served by the maxim "an eye for an eye"? What problems does it cause? How can love of enemies diminish violence? At what cost? When have you been able to show love to an enemy, and what was the result?

Luke 9:51-55
When the days drew near for [Jesus] to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; but they did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" But he turned and rebuked them. (No context needed.)

Jews and Samaritans shared the same religious roots, just as Jews, Christians and Muslims all trace their spiritual heritage to Abraham. But there was disagreement between Jews and Samaritans, and often a lack of mutual respect. The desire of James and John to see the inhospitable Samaritans destroyed was an understandable reaction, given the conflict between these groups.

Questions: Why does Jesus rebuke his disciples? What message is he giving us about anger and revenge? In your opinion, what kind of relationship did Jesus want to have with the Samaritans?

Luke 23:34
Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." (For context, read 23:32-43.)

Jesus is crucified between two criminals, and asks God to forgive the people who are putting him to death. He grasps that his killers are acting out of ignorance as well as malice. Jesus also shows compassion to the criminal who asks to be remembered in the kingdom of God, saying, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise" (v. 43).

Questions: What motivates Jesus to forgive the people who are killing him on the cross? How does this act affect the people around him? What is the impact of forgiveness on violence? Where do you see opportunities to practice the forgiveness of Jesus?

Romans 12:19-20
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads." (For context, read 12:9-21.)

Paul tells the Romans about the marks of a true Christian: love, honor, zeal, patience, perseverance and hospitality. He also says, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought of what is noble in the sight of all" (v. 17). He concludes by recommending that they leave the work of vengeance to God, and make an effort to overcome evil with good.

Questions: What is the significance of letting God show vengeance, instead of taking it into our own hands? How do you conquer your enemies by showing kindness to them? When have you done this in your own life?

1 Peter 3:9
Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse; but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing. (For context, read 3:8-22.)

Peter tells his followers to repay evildoers with a blessing because "the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous" (v. 12). He predicts that "even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed" (v. 14). Peter encourages us to make our Christian testimonies with gentleness and reverence, and to be willing to suffer for doing good. This puts us in line with our Lord Jesus, who "was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit" (v. 18).

Questions: What is the value of suffering to a Christian? When have you experienced a blessing after suffering for doing what is right? In concrete ways, how can we repay evildoers with a blessing? What does it mean to be made alive in the spirit?

For Further Discussion

1. In the pursuit of justice, how can a good offense be the best defense? When you strike back at someone who is trying to kill you, is that "revenge"? Why or why not? How should the United States work to degrade and defeat ISIS?

2. The General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom has said we must pray for and forgive Islamic State militants in the wake of the beheading of 21 Egyptian Christians by the terrorist group. "I think as Christians that's our mandate, it's what we do," Bishop Angaelos told Christianity Today. "Of course it will sometimes go against what people want, but as Christians we must forgive. ... If we don't forgive what do we have? Retaliation, resentment and anger, but no solution and no closure." The bishop remains adamant that "every life is sacred and every death tragic," including those of militants. "The particular brutality demonstrated in this instance and others like it shows not only a disregard for life but a gross misunderstanding of its sanctity and equal value in every person." Discuss.

3. If Christians take the position that ISIS should be wiped out, are they preventing jihadists from having the chance to repent and receive salvation? What are the implications of saying that some people are irredeemable? Should we be motivated so much by the drive for self-preservation that we cannot begin to conceive of the possibility that God could use martyrs to win over even some of the worst terrorists?

4. A member of The Wired Word editorial team just finished reading the book I Shall Not Hate, by a Palestinian Muslim physician who lost three daughters to misdirected Israeli bombs. From his story, she learned, "Revenge begets revenge. One might think there is justice in responding to terror with warfare but it ultimately leads to further killing." Where have you seen revenge continuing to drive the cycle of violence? When is warfare effective, and when is it ineffective? How can bloodshed be stopped?

5. In Dubai, five dialogues have been held between Muslims and Christians since 2005. They began when 120 students gathered in a lecture hall to discuss religious differences, and in 2013, over 700 people discussed the question "How can we find forgiveness from a holy God?" Said one young man from the Middle East, "All of the problems and troubles and fights happening in the world is because there is no forgiveness." How could forgiveness help alleviate problems and troubles in the world? In your community? In your church?

6. A nonprofit called "Bridges of Understanding" arranges videoconferences between high school students in the United States and the Middle East. The divide between Americans and Arabs is bridged by a focus on commonalities. "I was so surprised to find out that the Arab students seemed to be completely normal," said one American student, "and similar to me." Where do you see value in this type of dialogue? How could you be involved in such conversations, locally or internationally?

Responding to the News

Following the teachings of Jesus, take time to pray for those who persecute you. Reach out to someone from a different race, culture or religion, and try to establish a relationship. Focus on someone who has been an enemy to you, and think of ways that you might be reconciled and even become friends.

Closing Prayer

Help us, Lord, to overcome evil with good, and to reach out in Christian love to those who seek to do us harm. May we build relationships that break the cycle of violence in our homes, churches and world. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Brian Williams Takes Self-Imposed Leave, Then Suspended From News Anchor Role

 © 2014 The Wired Word

www.thewiredword.com

On January 30, NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams recounted not for the first time, but for the first time on the news program, that in Iraq in 2003 he was on a military helicopter that sustained enemy fire and had to crash-land. Soon, however, some who had been on that mission started disputing Williams' account online, saying he was actually on a different helicopter. NBC launched an internal investigation.

Williams apologized on air on February 4 and, on February 7, announced his decision as managing editor of Nightly News to take himself off the program "for the next several days ... to allow us to adequately deal with this issue." He stated, "It has become painfully apparent to me that I am presently too much a part of the news, due to my actions."

After the bulk of this lesson had been written, it was announced that NBC had decided to suspend Williams for six months without pay from both of his Nightly News roles. He has expressed remorse and says he is committed to regaining viewers' trust.

Related to this story are general questions about the reliability of human memory, as well as the psychology and dynamics of lying to improve one's status or reputation. 

New York Times columnist Tara Parker-Pope writes: "Numerous scientific studies show that memories can fade, shift and distort over time. Not only can our real memories become unwittingly altered and embellished, but entirely new false memories can be incorporated into our memory bank, embedded so deeply that we become convinced they are real and actually happened."

Others assert that people are tempted to lie about themselves to try to enhance their status. Kyle Smith writes in the New York Post: "What Williams' lie was about was what lies are always about: ... The term 'fish tale' does not mean you mistakenly tell people you caught a sickly 8-ounce catfish when actually you snagged a 95-pound monster marlin." 

More on this story can be found at these links: 

Brian Williams Leaving NBC News Anchor Desk "for the Next Several Days." MSN
Brian Williams Suspended for 6 Months Without Pay. CNY Central
Was Brian Williams a Victim of False Memory? New York Times
We Shouldn't Believe Williams' Lie Was an Innocent Mistake. New York Post

The Big Questions

1. There is a standard in journalism that a newsperson should report the news, not be the news. Was Williams' self-imposed leave of absence an effective first step toward resolving that issue in his case? Why or why not? Do you think the six-month suspension is an appropriate corrective or remedy for this form of dishonesty? If not, what do you think should happen?

2. Have you ever experienced a sermon, artistic performance, academic class, etc. where the presenter became more the focus than the message he or she was sharing? If so, how did you feel about it?

3. When does good storytelling (which might be part of a pastor's sermon, or a faith-sharing conversation you'd have with a friend) cross the line and become embellishment or even lying? When, if ever, is embellishment acceptable and appropriate? Do you agree with Kyle Smith, quoted under "In the News," about why people add untrue details to their personal experiences? What is the relationship between adding untrue details to a personal narrative and the humility to which God's people are called?

4. In what ways did Jesus direct people's focus beyond himself? In what ways did he direct people's focus toward himself?

5. In your experience and church tradition, do weddings and funerals tend to focus more on the human beings involved or on worship of God? Is it possible to effectively combine the two?

Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope
Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion:

Mark 1:1, 14-15
The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. ... Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." (For context, read 1:1-20.)

The evangelist introduces his gospel with a clear indication that he understands the good news he is sharing to be inherently connected with Jesus the Messiah. Jesus, however, proclaims the good news "of God," announcing not "Here I am!" but that "the kingdom of God has come near."

Questions: How do Mark's definition of the good news and Jesus' definition of the good news relate to each other? Are they essentially the same? If not, how do they differ? If they are different, what might this mean for our lives as followers of Jesus? 

John 1:19-20, 29
This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" He confessed and did not deny it, but confessed, "I am not the Messiah." ... The next day [John] saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, "Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!'" (For context, read 1:19-34.)

John the Baptist was absolutely clear about his role in relation to Jesus: "He confessed ... 'I am not the Messiah'" (emphasis added).

Questions: In what sense was John's declaration a "confession"? What did he give up by turning people's focus from himself to Jesus? What did he gain? What do we give up and gain by directing people's focus past ourselves to God? Do you know anyone who does this well?

1 Corinthians 1:13-15
[Paul writes,] "... Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, so that no one can say that you were baptized in my name." (For context, read 1:10-18.) 

In Paul's first letter to the church at Corinth, he tells that he has received word about division among the believers. Different factions have formed, each claiming to follow a particular teacher: Apollos, Cephas, Paul, Christ. Paul urges unity of mind and purpose instead. After all, he asks rhetorically, "Has Christ been divided?" (v. 13).

Questions: Many pastors love officiating at baptisms. Why would Paul say he is thankful that he baptized none of the Corinthians (except a few people he seems to remember as an afterthought -- and alas, no "backspace" key!)? What is meant by his question "Was Paul crucified for you?"–

2 Samuel 1:7-10
[The man said,] "When [King Saul] looked behind him, he saw me, and called to me. I answered, 'Here sir.' And he said to me, 'Who are you?' I answered him, 'I am an Amalekite.' He said to me, 'Come, stand over me and kill me; for convulsions have seized me, and yet my life still lingers.' So I stood over him, and killed him, for I knew that he could not live after he had fallen. I took the crown that was on his head and the armlet that was on his arm, and I have brought them here to my lord." (For context, read 1:1-15.) 

Here we read about a young Amalekite who is trying to ingratiate himself with the new king of Israel, David. The former king, Saul, had been David's enemy and had tried to kill David several times, although David has refused to do battle with or kill King Saul. We also know from the report in 1 Samuel 31 that, a few days prior to this, King Saul, seeing that he was about to be overrun by the enemy Philistines in battle, chose to kill himself rather than die at the hands of the enemy.

We aren't told much about the Amalekite. Perhaps he was an after-battle scavenger, stripping the fallen soldiers of their belongings. In any event, he takes the crown and bracelet from King Saul's body to give to David, and claims to have killed King Saul himself -- at Saul's request, of course. Perhaps he thought King David would be grateful for being rid of one of his enemies, although he was careful not to claim to be one of them. Just a little embellishment -- or maybe some "misremembering" -- to advance himself in the new king's eyes.

It didn't work, however. Instead, King David has the young Amalekite executed for daring to kill God’s anointed king. A little self-aggrandizement may seem like a good idea, but it often leads to problems later on -- even if, as in this case, it's not discovered to be a lie right away. 

Questions: What are some instances -- either in your own life or in the life of someone you know or have read about -- where the outcome of a lie was not at all what had been expected or hoped for? What are the dangers of lying? What are some benefits or seeming benefits? In what ways, if any, is "bearing false witness" in favor of oneself morally or ethically different from "bearing false witness against your neighbor"?

Exodus 4:10-13
But Moses said to the LORD, "O my Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor even now that you have spoken to your servant; but I am slow of speech and slow of tongue." Then the LORD said to him, "Who gives speech to mortals? ... Is it not I, the LORD? Now go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you are to speak." But he said, "O my Lord, please send someone else." (For context, read 3:9--4:17.)

The conversation above is between God and Moses at the burning bush. God says he has heard the cries of his people Israel in bondage to Egypt and plans to use Moses to lead them out of slavery. Immediately, Moses starts worrying and protesting: "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" (3:11); "If I come to the Israelites ... and they ask me, 'What is his name?' what shall I say to them?" (3:13); "But suppose they do not believe me or listen to me, but say, 'The LORD did not appear to you'" (4:1); and then finally the two questions quoted above.

To Moses' concerns God responds, "I will be with you" (3:12) and "Thus you shall say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, the God of your ancestors ... has sent me to you'" (3:15). The Lord even gives Moses special miracles to perform as evidence that he is sent by God -- his staff becomes a snake and then reverts to being a staff; his hand becomes leprous and is then healed. But with Moses still fretful, God finally agrees to send his brother Aaron as his assistant. 

Questions: Where was Moses' focus when he thought about taking on the task God was giving him? How might his response have been different had he focused on God's power rather than on his own weakness? How would Moses' life have been different if God had opted to send Aaron instead of him rather than with him? Have you ever lost a priceless opportunity due to being more focused on your inability than on God's ability?

For Further Discussion

1. What do you think is meant by this quote attributed to Mark Twain: "If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything"?

2. Have you ever remembered a particular event with great certainty, perhaps even vividly, which you later learned could not possibly have happened the way you recalled? How did you react to this discovery?

3. In Samuel Beckett's play Waiting for Godot, two tramps talk to pass the time as they wait for a man named Godot who never arrives. At one point Vladimir is talking about the thief on the cross who was saved: "How is it that of the four evangelists only one speaks of a thief being saved? The four of them were there -- or thereabouts -- and only one speaks of a thief being saved. ... One out of four. Of the other three, two don't mention any thieves at all and the third says that both of them abused [Jesus]." The character's point is that people always believe the account of the thief being saved. Why believe that evangelist more than the others? Is one of the evangelists lying? Misinformed? Misremembering? Or are the others just omitting information that they either didn't know about or didn't find necessary for their account?

4. Respond to this op-ed, written by David Brooks, which appeared in the New York Times February 10. We quote a few sentences here, but it's worth a full read: "There's something sad in Brian Williams's need to puff up his Iraq adventures and something barbaric in the public response. ... The barbaric part is the way we respond to scandal these days. When somebody violates a public trust, we try to purge and ostracize him. ... I ... think we'd all be better off if we reacted to these sorts of scandals in a different way. The civic fabric would be stronger if, instead of trying to sever relationships with those who have done wrong, we tried to repair them, if we tried forgiveness instead of exiling. ... [R]igorous forgiveness ... balances accountability with compassion."

Responding to the News

Give some thought to how you can share how God has touched your life without letting yourself become the main focus. What precautions might you take when speaking one-on-one with a friend? if sharing your testimony before a group? if writing a book?

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, as you in your earthly life always pointed people to your heavenly Father, as we share your good news with others, help us point beyond ourselves to you as our Savior, to God the Creator and to the life-giving Holy Spirit. Amen.

Politicians Invite Foreign Leaders, Fail to Build Consensus

 © 2014 The Wired Word

www.thewiredword.com

John Boehner, the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, announced on January 21 that he was inviting Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address Congress about the threat from Iran. "Prime Minister Netanyahu is a great friend of our country," said Boehner, "and this invitation carries with it our unwavering commitment to the security and well-being of his people."

Such invitations to foreign leaders are usually coordinated with the White House and State Department, but this one was not. The speech by Netanyahu to a joint session of Congress will be offered as lawmakers consider additional sanctions against Iran in the event that negotiations fail to curb the country's nuclear enrichment program.

President Obama vowed during his recent State of the Union address to veto any such legislation, currently supported by many Republicans and some Democrats. Because of this, Fox News described Boehner's invitation to Netanyahu as "a sharp rebuke to President Obama."

But Obama has reached out to a foreign leader as well. One week earlier, British prime minister David Cameron visited the White House and expressed his support for Obama on the question of sanctions. In addition, he used his time in Washington to call U.S. senators and urge them to vote against any sanctions legislation.

"It's the opinion of the United Kingdom that further sanctions, or further threat of sanctions at this point, won't actually help to bring the talks to a successful conclusion," said Cameron. He warned that further sanctions could "fracture the international unity" that has allowed the United States and other countries to present a united front in dealing with Iran. At a White House press conference with Cameron, Obama said, "I respectfully request [Congress] to hold off for a few months to see if we have the possibility of solving a big problem without resorting potentially to war."

White House press secretary Josh Earnest described the Netanyahu invitation as a breach of protocol. But he went on to say that the administration would reserve judgment until they speak with the Israelis. After issuing the invitation to Netanyahu, Boehner said, "Let's send a clear message to the White House -- and the world -- about our commitment to Israel and our allies."

In the past, it was assumed that "politics stops at the water's edge." This phrase, first coined by Republican senator Arthur Vandenberg in 1947, means that American leaders are to work together in a bipartisan way to address issues of national security. It also means that our leaders are to present a united front to other countries, despite our internal partisan disagreements. But this approach to politics is abandoned when foreign leaders are invited to address or lobby Congress over controversial legislation.

Today, American leaders are struggling to build consensus around important national and international issues. Many citizens sense that the art of persuasion is being replaced by sound bites and partisan posturing. Respect between members of our political parties seems to be trending downward, along with effective communication and artful negotiation. And boundaries shift when foreign leaders are pulled into American debates.

"Iran's nuclear program is one of the most significant national security issues we face and an even larger issue for Israel, and Israel is one of this country's closest allies," writes Elliot Abrams in a blog for the Council of Foreign Relations. Even so, Americans should take note when these deliberations, typically performed by the executive and legislative branches of the U.S. government, are influenced by foreign leaders.

More on this story can be found at these links:

Boehner Invites Netanyahu to Address Congress on Iran, After Obama Veto Threat. Fox News
White House Says Boehner Broke Protocol With Netanyahu Invitation. Los Angeles Times
Obama, Cameron Urge Congress Not to Pass Iran Sanctions. Politico
About That Netanyahu Invitation to Address Congress. Council on Foreign Relations

The Big Questions

1. How might the American legislative process be undermined or aided by the input of foreign leaders? What boundaries, if any, should be put on their involvement? How can outsiders impact church communications and family communications?

2. Why is it so hard to build consensus in Washington today? Where do you see similar problems in the life of the church?

3. What role does mutual respect play in the work of government? How has it been lost, and how could it be restored?

4. What are the qualities of effective negotiation? Where do you see a need for better negotiation in local, state and national politics? In the Church universal, your denomination and/or the local church? What are the formal and informal rules of cooperation?

5. What does the phrase "politics stops at the water's edge" mean to you? Where should such boundaries be drawn in the lives of our families, congregations and denominations?

6. What are the hot-button issues in your church? Which issues that you think ought to be unifying turn out to be controversial?

Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope
Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion:

1 Kings 12:13-14
The king answered the people harshly. He disregarded the advice that the older men had given him and spoke to them according to the advice of the young men. (For context, read 12:1-19.)

After the death of Solomon, his son Rehoboam becomes king of Israel. King Rehoboam seeks the counsel of a number of older men on the matter of how to deal with a group of northern rebels. The men advise him, "If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and speak good words to them when you answer them, then they will be your servants forever" (v. 7). But the king disregards their counsel and instead follows the advice of a group of younger men who encourage him to treat the rebels harshly, saying, "My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions" (v. 11). The result is that the northern tribes secede from the nation.

Questions: Why do you think the older men who had served Solomon recommend that King Rehoboam "speak good words" to the rebels? What motivates Rehoboam to reject this advice? What kinds of voices can we use in negotiations, and what difference do they make? How do we know what advice to accept and what to reject? What builds and maintains mutual respect?

Psalm 133:1
How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity! (For context, read 133:1-3.)

This short psalm speaks of the blessedness of unity, describing it in vivid poetic terms as being like "the precious oil on the head, running down upon the beard" (v. 2). Those who find ways to live together in unity are promised the blessing of God, "life forevermore" (v. 3).

Questions: Why is unity a desirable quality in our life together as families, churches, communities and a nation? What actions help us build consensus around issues of common concern? Under what conditions can "we'll agree to disagree" be a viable outcome? What are the formal and informal rules of cooperation? As you understand them, describe the qualities of "life forevermore" promised to those who can work together in this way.

Matthew 5:22
But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council ... . (For context, read 5:21-26.)

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus holds his followers to a very high standard. Not only is murder prohibited, but so are anger and insults. Additionally, he instructs his disciples to settle disputes before making religious gifts, telling them to "first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift" (v. 24).

Questions:  Why do you think Jesus is so concerned about anger and insults? Where do we encounter such behavior today? Why is the settling of disputes so important to Jesus? How can we be reconciled to our brothers and sisters in local, national and international arenas?

2 Corinthians 5:17-19
So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. (For context, read 5:16-21.)

The apostle Paul understands the ministry of reconciliation to be at the heart of what God has done through Christ, and at the center of what we are supposed to be focusing on as Christ's people. God worked through Jesus to repair the relationship between God and humanity that had been broken by sin, and he calls us to restore broken human relationships as well. God has entrusted "the message of reconciliation to us," a message with divine and human components.

Questions: How can we repair broken relationships through "the ministry of reconciliation"? Where can we do the work of peacemaking in our families, congregations, neighborhoods and world? What attitudes toward friends and enemies can help this work to be successful? Since God has shown us grace through Jesus Christ, how can we show grace to one another?

Ephesians 4:1-3
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (For context, read 4:1-16.)

As a prisoner of the Roman Empire, Paul has personal experience with international relations and the relationship between church and state. But his focus is always on the vitality of the Christian community. In the middle of his personal struggles, he calls for unity in the church and a style of life that includes humility, gentleness, patience and mutual forbearance. In his own way, he knows that "politics stops at the water's edge" -- that is, Christians should not take their disputes into the wider world, but instead make every effort "to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Questions: How can Christians today show more humility, gentleness, patience and mutual forbearance? What effect do such qualities have on peace and unity in the church? How can such behavior be demonstrated in the wider world of politics and international relations?

For Further Discussion

1. What qualities do you look for in an advisor? Is it important that the person be a Christian and a member of your church? Why or why not? When (or under what circumstances) might it be important or acceptable to seek out an advisor or consultant who is not a member of your church, or even a Christian?

2. How can your congregation do a better job of building consensus around issues of shared concern? Be specific.

3. Most Christian communities could improve their communication. What types of voices should be used within the community of faith? Which are helpful and which are destructive?

4. Where do you see mutual respect being fostered in your family, your church and your community? What does it mean to "fight fair"? Where do you see dangerous lines being crossed?

5. "There is no more sensitive task -- or a more hazardous one -- than trying to keep nuclear weapons out of Iran's hands," writes the editorial board of USA Today. "It would be a shame if all that effort was lost because of political gamesmanship here or in Israel." Do you agree that partisan politics should not have been allowed to influence talks with Iran? If so, why? If not, how should partisan politics be involved in the negotiations, and how might this be done constructively? What issues in the Christian community should be "off limits" to politics, if any?

6. In your own life, is there an area in which "politics stops at the water's edge"? If so, why is it important for you to maintain a united front as a family, congregation or community?

Responding to the News

Listen carefully to the ways politicians talk to one another, and the ways they talk about one another. Try to avoid communication that is disrespectful and polarizing, and work to build consensus in your own family, church and community. Make an effort to "maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3).

Closing Prayer

How very good and pleasant it is, O God, when we live together in unity! Help us to see each other as brothers and sisters, and to work for reconciliation in all that we say and do. In Jesus' name. Amen.