Every election seems to be “the most important election in the history of our country.” That’s what we’re told, and often how we feel. Because elections have consequences, American citizens bear great responsibility for making wise decisions as they cast their ballots.
But what is the greater role of the church in politics–and what are the Christian’s greater responsibilities beyond election day?
Certainly, Christians are to be “salt and light” (Matthew 5:13-16), positively influencing their culture for good. Coupled with passages such as Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Timothy 2:1-2, we may conclude that Christians are to be involved politically at least to the degree of praying for leaders and obeying the law of the land.
One may reasonably expect, therefore, that Christians will be political informed and will vote for those best representing biblical values. We would also expect Christians to use whatever influence they have to encourage others to do likewise.
But these duties are not to be carried out at the exclusion of a far greater matter of importance: the church’s chief role is to share the gospel. Christians are to proclaim the centrality of the cross and how God has overcome humankind’s brokenness that they may be reconciled to Him through glorious union with Christ Jesus.
This is the Christian’s primary concern and must never be forgotten!
The Bible does not call for political revolution. The Bible does not call for the church to set up a theocracy on earth. This world is not our final destination. To be sure, when Christ returns, He will set up His kingdom as He wishes and then–and only then–we will have a perfect theocracy.
Until then, however, we live in a fallen world with problems abounding, including the challenging and ubiquitous political problems facing all of us.
So let us continue to be involved politically by praying, influencing, and voting. But let us not forget the church’s chief role of “making disciples” (Matthew 28:19-20), committed Christ-followers, regardless of one’s political leanings.
Let us not look to our nation’s leaders as miracle workers or superstars or even parental figures. They are merely fallen men and women being elected to office. Our ultimate hope does not lie with them. Our ultimate hope lies with our Lord Jesus Christ.
So together we’ll vote and we’ll continue sharing our political views & concerns with our neighbors–but more importantly, let’s share the gospel with them. That’s what they need most, and what we most need to share.
What About You?
- Is sharing your political views easier than sharing the gospel? Why or why not?
- How much of your trust is placed in elected leaders and how much in Christ?
- Have you voted yet? If not, vote now!
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