Christians and Politics
Should We Care?
“Beauty is Real” acrylic by Myra Alibrando
Americans Rebelling Against British
Way, way back in 1979, I wrote a book called "Christians in the Arena" with the subtitle "Stepping into the Arenas of Leadership, Influence, and Politics".
It is probably not what you would guess. Originally, I was trying to find an explanation for American Christians justifying rebelling against the British government since Romans 13 teaches us to submit to governmental authority over us as from God.
I never did find a single book addressing this, so I began my own research and wrote my own book, which, by the way, also does not answer the historical question.
It was less than a 100-page booklet but packed with content.
Expanded Book
Fast forward to 2006, my publisher printed an expanded version that I do not consider properly edited since my first draft ended up being my final draft. It was rushed. However, after a wonderful voice actor recorded it by the name of Charles Kahlenberg and I listened in the car to, eventually, all 5 hours and 24 minutes, I realized it had great value. Although it is $19.95 instead of the $7.99 paperback price, I truly consider it a much greater value. By the way, I reversed the title and subtitle. All on Amazon.com internationally.
Major Points about Christian Citizens of Any Country
The essence of the content had a few major themes:
In nations where citizens can vote and run for office, silence is consent
While leaders and laws influence morality, the book of Judges shows us that people get the government they deserve. Ouch. Think about that one
Laws proclaim value. Many cry "You can't legislate morality" but clearly we can legislate immorality making sin and perversion and even murder, a protected right
Good Laws + Bad People = Bad Government. Even good laws in the hand of the corrupt can be used as a tool of Satan. Unenforced good laws soon become a joke
When Christians do not put Christian values into non-religious laws for everyone, the ungodly will force their values onto everyone
Is Satan Interested in Politics?
Do you think Satan would be interested in the politics of the world? Of course, the answer is yes. If that answer is so easy, then we should realize God is interested in anything that affects our lives but also always concerned about our hearts, our thoughts, and our motives. Clearly those in charge can be good or bad influences, so believers who love their neighbors care about such matters. This is not a step away from faith but sparked by love.
Prayer, But Not Instead of Service
It is so obvious that when Christians step away from all responsibility of creating laws, enacting laws, and enforcing laws, justice evaporates. If you or your children love God and His Word, they will be rebels against whatever ungodly culture surrounds them. Praying for a godly government from ungodly people is like praying for your cat to have puppies.
Please do not stop praying. It is never useless, but
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16
At the very minimum, vote. Support someone somehow if it is them "against the world".
The Ear Cannot Say to the Eye “I have no need of you”
Politics is the art of leadership and requires serving many, including those not Christian. It is not an easy calling. But either is a feeding program, or an orphanage, or being a pastor, or a policeman, judge, teacher, evangelist, or just an usher on Sunday. Thank God we are not all called to one calling because God knows very well that the complete body in unity is strong when led by the Holy Spirit.
Do Not Fret, It is the World
Politics is incredibly frustrating and Psalm 37 says
. . . do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. Psalm 37:7b-8
But don't feel too bad for wanting good guys or truth or innocence to win. All God's kids feel the same way. Nobody likes a movie if the good guys get killed at the end of the movie either. Of course we want honesty to defeat deception. It will never end, but don't fret. God promises are real and the last thing anyone should want is being an enemy of God. There is no escape.
For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land. A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. Psalm 37:9-12
There are so many promises in just Psalm 37 how the situation of the wicked or wealth is so absolutely hopeless and that righteousness will be rewarded permanently, it is truly worth your time to look. Maybe highlight God's promises to the wicked in one color and His promises to the righteous in another color.
I'll close with one more quotation:
Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked; for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous. Psalm 37:16-17
Sam, thank you for your enlightening article and for continuously providing thought-provoking content on Christian Curiosity, Creativity, & Courage. I wholeheartedly agree with the points raised about the intersection of faith and politics. The idea that silence equals consent in the political arena mirrors my own beliefs about the necessity of active engagement in research and academia.
As a research scientist, I find the application of your article to my personal life quite profound. Often, the pursuit of knowledge and truth in science can feel like navigating a political landscape where various forces vie to influence outcomes and interpretations. Your discussion on the importance of Christian values in legislative contexts prompts me to reflect on the ethical frameworks within which I conduct my research. It’s a reminder that I must strive to ensure my work does not merely advance knowledge but also upholds moral integrity and serves the greater good.
Moreover, the point about the "prayer of a righteous person" being powerful and effective resonates deeply with me. In my scientific endeavors, I believe that prayer and reflection should guide my actions as much as rigorous data analysis. This spiritual discipline helps me maintain focus on the humanitarian goals of my research, ensuring that my work contributes positively to society and does not become detached from the very real human concerns it aims to address.
I am also reminded of the importance of participation not just within the scientific community but in the wider world. Voting, engaging in community discussions, and supporting policies that align with ethical science are all ways in which I can enact the principles you've discussed. Your article inspires me to advocate for policies that support robust and ethical scientific research, much as we would advocate for godly governance.
Thank you once again, Sam, for this invigorating discussion. Your insights provide not only spiritual nourishment but also practical guidance that transcends the boundaries of our respective callings. I look forward to your next article with great anticipation and enthusiasm!
“Beauty is Real” acrylic by Myra Alibrando
Hi Myra, your acrylic painting "Beauty is Real" is absolutely stunning! The peaceful scene you've created radiates with tranquility and natural harmony. The way the branches with soft pink blossoms frame the landscape is such a beautiful touch, giving the painting a sense of intimacy and grace. It feels as if I’m standing right there, peeking through the trees to enjoy this breathtaking view.
The calm waters in the foreground, reflecting the soft blues of the sky, create such a peaceful atmosphere. The subtle variations in the greens and browns of the landscape add depth, making the scene feel expansive and inviting. The distant birds soaring through the sky add a gentle sense of freedom and movement, further enhancing the serene mood of the painting.
Your use of light and color creates such a delicate balance in this piece, capturing the essence of nature's beauty without overwhelming the senses. It’s like a quiet invitation to pause, breathe, and appreciate the world around us. This painting feels like a reminder of the calm and beauty that exist in the simplest of moments.
Keep painting, Myra! You have a gift for capturing the soul of nature. As Claude Monet once said, "My wish is to stay always like this, living quietly in a corner of nature." Your artwork brings that wish to life, please continue sharing your vision with the world!