Christians and Politics

Sometimes we feel like we shouldn’t even get involved—politics is a dirty game.

After watching the news, we often feel like we need a quick shower. Other times we feel like we’re invisible, our voices are ignored when we express disapproval at some of the decisions made by our leaders.  If one of our Christian brothers tries to get involved and, heaven forbid, runs for office, he’s suspected of selling out; because we should be above all the sleazy backroom deals required to succeed. 

There have been many demonstrations of disrespect and hostility surrounding our last presidential election, to the point of public disturbances. Saddened by the disorder and outright hatred expressed so publicly, what is our responsibility as Christians?  And when we disagree with morality of a law, what are we to do? Avert our eyes or protest? And if we protest, we may break the law and there are consequences. What are we supposed to do? I confess the only word I had read on the subject was Jesus's remark in Luke 20:25. "Then render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's and unto God the things that are God's."

 Dr. Robert Jeffress, Dallas First Baptist pastor,  spoke on the subject last Sunday and Romans 13 gives a complete idea of our response to government, and our answer to these questions is very plain:

Romans 13:1-5 says: Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 2Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.  3For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; 4For it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. 5Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’  

Dr. Jeffress pointed out that leaders, good or bad, are placed as God sees fit. Like him or not, we must realize God had a reason for placing us under this authority.  And happy about His choice or not, I plan to stay on the winner’s side of that disagreement! So what can we do as God’s people to make our situation better? Pray for our leadership. If you’re praying for someone, you'll find it difficult to condemn him. You can’t do both!

1^st Timothy 2:1-4, 8 says: 1First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and  dignity. 3This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,   4who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 8Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.