Since the last election in our nation, there have been sweeping changes in the Executive Branch of our government, and to a lesser extent, Congress. Some applaud, while others resist. Whether you happen to be for those changes, opposed to them, or not so sure, how are we called to live as a Christians? Is it proper for a Christian to be involved in the political process, and if it is, HOW should I be involved? Or should I stay away from “worldly politics?” What factors should I consider in this decision?
#1 Our citizenship is in Heaven! We belong to the Kingdom of Jesus! That is our priority! This world and it’s politics are only temporary! If earthly concerns lead us to neglect our obligations as Citizens of Heaven, we need to change our priority! Ephesians 2:18–19 for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household,
#2 We are to follow the laws and leaders of our earthly nation, if those laws and leaders do not conflict with the laws of our God. We are to be good citizens of the nation in which we live, but if God’s laws and men’s laws come in conflict, God’s law wins!
Acts 4:18–20 And when they had summoned them, they commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
#3 We are not to get offended & angry when the people around us don’t agree with us.
Even when others get nasty, we are not to answer in kind. Especially when they attack us because of our BIBLICAL beliefs. Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. This is REALLY hard to do… especially in an age where people hide behind their computers and say terrible things about other people’s beliefs and motives.
#4 As Christians, we are called to influence the world in which we live.
Matthew 5:13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.” We are called to influence the world we live in for Jesus! Can we really be an influence if we just “walk away?” I don’t think so!
#5 We have the privilege in this country of being able to help shape policy. We not only have the right to vote, I believe it to be a moral obligation! Part of the Lord’s prayer says, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.” Many Christians in this world have no ability to influence how their country is governed… You do! Use that influence, with Godly goals and intentions, to make our nation one that follows God’s principles! Our world will be a better place!
Whatever your politics, remember Whose Kingdom you really belong to! Obey your King and let the rest fall where it may!
Trying to live for my King, right next to you,
John
