A "Mashup" of Christian Principles with Political Principles

What is a Mashup discussion.  A mashup is a "mixture or fusion of disparate elements"-- often used in music.  What can more disparate than Christianity and politics.  No.  This is not going to be  a political discussion, but instead it will  apply a talk I attended attended at political discussion to the church and Christianity. 

Last Monday, April 16, i attended a "Patriot Breakfast" and talk held at 7:15 AM in the morning at the Prestonwood country club in Plano.  There was a "book report" on CIA activities in the Middle East with formal special forces making extensive comments.  There was also a talk by the Chairman of the Collin County Republican Party.  What follows is the mashup which, I submit is pertinent, and accurate.

1. The Gospel is Local
Though it is true that the gospel needs to be taken to the far reaches of the world, that is not now the only place that real effort needs to be exerted.  It is not  only, the world, the United States, or Texas, or even Collin County, but our own neighborhood that needs attention.    You see at one time our neighborhood and county adhered to Christian principles and values, but no longer.  If we dont discuss these things with our friends and neighbors, there is no hope of retaining them.  So for those of us who cant effect the international or national culture, it is incumbent on us to take the gospel and values to where we live.
2.  The Grassroots Determine the Values/Culture of the Church
This may  be a controversial observation as it is conventional wisdom that the elders and located pulpit minister should determine the values/culture/direction of the congregation.  To some extent this may be true.  But, how long will any organization survive if it goes against the values of its members--not long.  So, here are some reasons the Grassroots---everyday members who actually participate set the values/culture/direction of the church:
a) Leaders are to be servant leaders and not "Lord it over the membership".  
b) Members are given gifts by Christ  and leaders are to "equip the members for work of service" using the gifts and passion member have in a service area (Eph 4). 

If you put these two principles together, it is really at the membership level that the values and culture of the church is set.  It is rare that any value can be imposed from the "top down" and be successful.  Programs imposed from the top are neither desirable nor productive.  Rather real leadership provides channels for the gifts and passion for members to utilize these gifts.  Yes, this may require training, mentoring, and even discovery of gifts. It is then the actual use of gifts that set the values and culture of the church.