Wawancara

Summary

In this interview, Pastor Pak Pendeta from GP Betlehem Church in Malang shares his views on political manipulation, or 'manipolitik.' He emphasizes that it is a sin, driven by greed and the love of money, which causes people to abandon their moral responsibilities. Citing biblical verses like 1 Timothy 6:10 and Exodus 23:8, he highlights the dangers of bribery and corruption. The pastor calls on believers to resist temptation during political seasons, particularly local elections, and to trust in God's guidance to live righteously, ensuring that God's name is glorified above all.

Takeaways

• 😀 Political manipulation (or 'manipolitik') is seen as a sin because it involves deviating from one's duties due to greed or bribery.
• 😀 The love of money is identified as the root of all evil, as referenced in 1 Timothy 6:10, which underscores the danger of pursuing wealth at the cost of integrity.
• 😀 Bribery corrupts judgment and leads to injustice, as seen in Exodus 23:8, where the Bible warns against accepting bribes.
• 😀 Political manipulation is viewed as a violation of moral and ethical duties, as it undermines the trust and fairness required in governance.
• 😀 Leaders should prioritize serving God and the people, not being swayed by money or external influences.
• 😀 The upcoming local elections in Malang should be an opportunity for people to remain true to their faith and values, avoiding corruption and manipulation.
• 😀 Christians are encouraged to live out their faith by pursuing righteousness and truth, even in political settings.
• 😀 Pak Pendeta calls for integrity in politics, emphasizing that elections should not be about personal gain but about serving God's will.
• 😀 His personal prayer is that God's name will be glorified during the election process, and that the right leaders will be chosen according to divine will.
• 😀 Christians are urged to remain vigilant and avoid being tempted by the allure of wealth, especially in times of political turbulence.

Q & A

What is Pak Pendeta's perspective on 'manipolitik' or political manipulation?

Pak Pendeta views 'manipolitik' as the act of someone misusing their duties or calling for personal gain, particularly through money or bribery. He sees it as a sinful act because it involves deviating from one's responsibility for material gain.

Which Bible verses does Pak Pendeta reference to support his views on political manipulation?

Pak Pendeta references 1 Timothy 6:10 and Exodus 23:8. In 1 Timothy 6:10, it is said that the love of money is the root of all evil, which can lead people to stray from faith. Exodus 23:8 warns against accepting bribes, as they can corrupt judgment.

Why does Pak Pendeta believe 'manipolitik' is a sin?

He believes 'manipolitik' is a sin because it involves prioritizing money over the responsibilities and duties one is called to fulfill. Accepting bribes or acting for financial gain leads people away from their faith and God's teachings.

What specific dangers does Pak Pendeta associate with the love of money in politics?

Pak Pendeta highlights that the love of money in politics can corrupt leaders, leading them to make unethical decisions, accept bribes, and abandon their moral and religious obligations, resulting in harm to society and individuals.

What message does Pak Pendeta convey regarding the conduct of political leaders during elections?

Pak Pendeta urges political leaders to stay true to their moral and religious values, avoiding the temptation of bribes and money. He encourages them to serve with integrity, aligning their actions with God's will rather than personal gain.

What is Pak Pendeta’s hope for the upcoming local elections in Malang?

Pak Pendeta hopes that the upcoming elections will not be tainted by political manipulation and that people will choose leaders who are righteous and faithful to God's teachings. He prays that God's name will be glorified during this process.

How does Pak Pendeta suggest individuals should approach their roles in politics?

Pak Pendeta advises individuals in politics to focus on fulfilling their calling and responsibilities with honesty and integrity, not for the sake of money or personal gain, but in alignment with God's guidance.

What does Pak Pendeta believe about the relationship between money and faith in politics?

Pak Pendeta believes that money can be a destructive influence on faith, as it leads individuals to stray from their spiritual path and make compromises that undermine their values and responsibilities in politics.

What does Pak Pendeta hope for the behavior of Christian politicians during election periods?

He hopes that Christian politicians will maintain their faith and moral compass during election periods, avoiding corrupt practices and keeping their actions in line with God's principles, thereby setting an example of righteousness.

What key biblical principle does Pak Pendeta emphasize for Christians in politics?

Pak Pendeta emphasizes that Christians in politics should prioritize honesty, integrity, and alignment with God's will, rather than being influenced by materialism or corrupt practices such as bribery.