Why do we sing about "Amazing Grace" on Sunday but demand our neighbours "earn their keep" on Monday? In this episode of The Faithful Citizen, we continue our "Redeeming..." series by tackling the uncomfortable disconnect between the Vertical Grace we receive from God and the Horizontal Mercy we often refuse to extend to the poor.

We explore the "Myth of Meritocracy," the idolatry of the "Bootstrap Gospel," and why the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant might be the most political text in the New Testament. It is time to drop the ledger and redeem Mercy.

In This Episode, We Cover:

The Sunday/Monday Paradox: The jarring theological shapeshift between our worship of Sola Gratia (Grace Alone) and our political demand for ruthless meritocracy.

The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant: Retelling Matthew 18 as a commentary on the modern American voter.

Smashing the Idols: Identifying the "Idol of Merit" (poverty as a moral failing) and the "Idol of the System" (outsourcing compassion to the State).

The Theology of the Beggar: Why the Gospel demands we identify with the poor, not just serve them.

Dropping the Ledger: Practical steps to move from transactional relationships to covenantal generosity.

Scripture Referenced:

Ephesians 2:8: "For by grace you have been saved through faith..."

Matthew 18: The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant.

Isaiah 58:6-7: The fast that God chooses (bringing the poor into your house).

Luke 16: The Rich Man and Lazarus.

Memorable Quotes:

"We’re the people of Sola Gratia. We fiercely defend the doctrine that we’re spiritual beggars who’ve been given a seat at the King's table... yet we champion a ruthless meritocracy."

"When you know you’ve been forgiven a debt of 10,000 talents, you don't choke your neighbour over a few dollars. You tip extravagantly."

"The Gospel calls us to drop the Ledger."

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