Politics a useful tool?
Posted by: Don Kirkland, Editor, ,The Baptist Courier on June 2, 2008 Featured Article •
According to a recent poll conducted jointly by LifeWay Research and the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, a majority of Americans—though only a slight majority—do not believe that Christians are too much involved in politics.
When the survey figures zeroed in on Americans who attend religious services of any kind at least weekly, that modest majority of 52 percent increased to a more substantial 65 percent of our citizens who find no fault with Christian participation in politics.
And for the record, most Southern Baptist pastors—65 percent of them—expressed their disagreement with the notion that believers are too greatly involved in politics.
The results of the poll, taken at a time of heightened, if not yet peak, interest and involvement in the political process give a timely indication of the level of acceptance by Americans of the role played by Christians in shaping public policy that is not at all surprising.
Richard Land, president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, found the survey “in line with the involvement of people of faith throughout our nation’s history with political issues that have a moral component,” citing the abolitionist movement against slavery and the civil rights movement in opposition to racial injustice as “religiously motivated.”
Politics, which by one definition is “the process by which groups of people make decisions on who gets what,” is not limited to government. It is evident wherever people interact, whether in corporate, academic or religious settings.
Especially as the time for annual meetings of the Southern and the South Carolina Baptist conventions draw near, and often when decisions are made having a major impact on convention ministries, criticism over the prevalence of politics in the denomination is voiced.
Nevertheless, the political process has been and will continue to be a vital and visible component of denominational life for Southern Baptists and for believers from all walks of Christian faith.
Central to—and for that reason inseparable from—the political process is the acquisition and application of power and influence. How the power and influence are acquired likely provides the key to understanding how they are applied, and that will determine in most instances whether the political process works for the benefit of detriment of the denomination.
We as Baptists would be wise to embrace the political process as neither inherently evil nor inevitably good, but rather for its potential as a helpful tool in building the kingdom of God on earth when power and influence are used appropriately by those who seek to be our denomination’s servants, not its masters.
[This commentary originally appeared in The Baptist Courier (S.C.), May 15, 2008. Reprinted with permission.]
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
Christians in Politics: Too much or too little?
Posted by: Richard Land on May 28, 2008 Featured Article •
Over the past few weeks, a national polling firm for LifeWay Research and the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission conducted a survey asking Americans to respond to this statement: “I am concerned that at times Christians are too involved in politics.”
The results were quite informative. The majority of Americans (52%) either “strongly disagree” (32%) or “somewhat disagree” (20%) with the statement. Even larger majorities of faith-affiliated Americans disagreed with the statement. When researchers asked Americans who attended religious services of any faith at least once a week, disagreement with the statement was even higher, with 65% indicating they were comfortable with Christians being involved in politics, and only 21% expressing varying discomfort with Christians’ political activity.
Those who self-identify themselves as “born-again,” “evangelical,” or “fundamentalist” expressed the highest level of disagreement (72%) with the assertion that “at times Christians are too involved in politics” with only 27% telling pollsters they agreed (“strongly” or “somewhat”) with the statement.
These results do not surprise me at all. They underscore and reinforce the feedback I receive on a consistent basis from grassroots Christians of all perspectives, particularly conservative Christians – Catholic and Protestant.
The survey’s findings are particularly dramatic given the fact that LifeWay Research and the ERLC worded the poll’s question in a way that would elicit the most negative response possible, by using the word “politics” as opposed to “social issues” or “public policy.” “Politics” has a negative connotation and is often perceived as partisan, rancorous, and something that many Christians feel is too “worldly.”
If we had posed the question, “I’m concerned that at times Christians are too involved in social issues or public policy,” I am quite confident the level of disagreement with the statement would have been even higher.
These polling results suggest that those pundits, analysts, and religious leaders that tell us that people of faith are disillusioned with politics and public policy need to get out more and talk with the people who actually go to churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples. If they did, they would find that the people who most often attended religious services disagree with their assessment by an almost two to one margin, 65 percent to 31 percent. On a more personal note, among Southern Baptist pastors who were asked the question of whether “at times, Christians are too involved in politics”, two thirds of them either “strongly disagreed” (41%) or “somewhat disagreed” (26%).
When people of faith enter the political process they should always understand that their ultimate allegiance is to the Almighty, not any ideology or party. People of faith have an obligation to be involved as “salt” and “light” in the world, and that includes “politics.” They should be voting their values, beliefs, and convictions, based on their understanding of the imperatives of their faith.
This column was originally published at Casting Stones, a blog hosted by Beliefnet.com.
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
As the Wind Blows
Posted by: K.D. Hastings on May 19, 2008 Featured Article •
I work downtown but there is a flagpole on top of a building in midtown—a mile or so to the west—that I can see from my office window. I use the American flag on that pole as a rudimentary weather predictor in the spring and the fall.
When the flag is blowing to the south, I know it is more likely to be cooler outside. When the flag is flying toward the north, warm temps are on the way. If the flag is fully extended, flapping heartily, I know the change in temperature will be dramatic—or that stormy weather is at hand. When the flag ‘changes direction’ during the day, I know change is on the way. I have to admit my spirits are buoyed on a cool spring day when I see the flag turn northward. I know warmer weather is on the way as the breezes come out of the south.
My method of forecasting by flag, what a farmer calls a wind vane, is a more refined version of the wetting a finger and sticking it in the air to see which way the wind is blowing. I don’t have to put my hands in my mouth to determine the wind direction.
Politicians are notorious for checking to see which way the wind is blowing and testing the waters. And it’s not for meteorological purposes. They sample public opinion to ascertain the best way to package their policy presentations. In order to ruffle the fewest feathers, particularly in an election year, politicians prefer to know the mood of the voters before they go too far out on a limb. The same candidate in three different venues can present the same idea three different ways—to suit each crowd. It’s not automatically disingenuous, in fact it can be very wise campaign tactic.
The problem comes when a politician tells one group one thing and another group something markedly different. In an attempt to gain support (aka “votes”) he is tickling ears with a message that may omit critical details, but that appeal to those he is addressing at the moment.
We can appreciate the value of discernment when it comes to spiritual matters, but it is also invaluable in evaluating the policy positions of public figures. Whether in spiritual or civic matters, it is critical that we look below the surface to make a proper judgment on the issue at hand (John 7:24).
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
A History of Prayer
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on May 12, 2008 Featured Article •
I love history. In school, I always aced history and English. It’s no wonder I still love to read stories and articles on historical events—from yesterday, last year, and even 2,000 years ago. Everyone and everything has a story and history to tell.
Just the other day, I read how the National Day of Prayer first began, and how and why the tradition was continued throughout history. Days of prayer were declared by:
• President George Washington after the Whiskey Rebellion. • President John Adams when France threatened to make war with America. • President Madison during the War of 1812. • President Tyler when President Harrison died. • President Taylor during a cholera epidemic. • President Buchanan to avert civil strife. • President Lincoln during the Civil War. • President Andrew Johnson when President Lincoln was shot. • President Wilson during World War I.
Finally, in 1952, President Truman made the National Day of Prayer an annual event, saying: “In times of national crisis when we are striving to strengthen the foundations of peace…we stand in special need of Divine support.”
And President Ronald Reagan declared the National Day of Prayer to take place each year on the first Thursday in May.
Praise God that our country has not thrown this sacred national holiday out of the books like we have so many other holy things. In light of how important this event is, we must also realize the importance of daily prayer for our country, its leaders, our government, schools, media, and other influential figures.
You’ve probably heard this Scripture used over and over again, but it’s good to know that God’s Word is unchanging and His promises are true. The Bible says, “My people who are called by My name humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14, HCSB).
Do you believe God will do what He says if we obey His commands? Do you make time each day to pray for our government, our troops serving overseas, our President, and other political leaders? Are you praying every day for the Presidential candidates campaigning across the U.S.?
As believers and Americans, it is our responsibility to be faithful in praying for our country—not just in times of crisis, but always.
Source of historical facts: American Minute with Bill Federer (www.amerisearch.net)
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
Cowardly Clergyman?
Posted by: Oklahoma Baptist Messenger staff on April 29, 2008 Featured Article •
Since when does a church or its pastor have to remain silent when addressing moral and social issues from a biblical worldview? There is no shortage on those who would like to squelch the voice of the church, especially during a political season.
Now is not the time for the church and its pastor to turn passive with regard to addressing critical social and moral issues from the pulpit. The pastor must speak with conviction based on the authority of the Scripture, not with results from the latest opinion poll. The pastor must challenge his congregation with the truth of God’s Word without regard to the views and opinions of political parties or candidates.
The pastor must do all he can to provide insight to moral and social issues based on God’s Word. Shying away from or avoiding certain issues for fear of offending a particular political candidate or political party member is acting as a cowardly clergyman.
Pastors have every right to preach on moral and social issues and to encourage their congregations to become active in civic affairs. Pastors should never endorse a candidate on behalf of the church. Nor should they use church funds or services to contribute directly to candidates or political committees. The pastor should never distribute materials on church premises that favor any one candidate or political party. However, the pastor does have the right to address moral and social issues being addressed by candidates and political parties.
The church has every right to encourage members to voice their opinions in favor or against legislative issues. A church should never endorse or oppose a political candidate or make contributions to a political action committee. Nor should churches conduct fundraising for political candidates. However, the church is an excellent place for the community to learn more about the political process and legislative issues.
Unfortunately, too many churches and pastors are standing on the sidelines allowing those with a secular worldview to dominate public affairs and critical legislation. Our silence has been perceived as agreement. We must clear our throats and be heard without concession.
We are not skating on thin ice when it comes to taking a stand regarding moral and social issues. We must not be intimidated by those who desire to silence the church. We are called to proclaim the truth. May Joshua 1:9 serve as our guide as we seek to address the moral and social issues of our day. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” May the Lord find us strong and courageous as together we seek to make a difference within our culture.
It is time to speak up, pastor. Take a stand with God’s Word as your guide! Churches, stand with your pastor as he proclaims the truth of God’s Word with regard to sensitive social and moral issues of the day.
Church members, beware of allowing your political persuasions to compromise your biblical convictions. Know where candidates stand on the issues and support those who share your values as a believer and follower of Jesus Christ.
[This editorial is adapted and reprinted with permission from the April 10, 2008 Oklahoma Baptist Messenger.]
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
Knowing the Why Behind the What
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on April 21, 2008 Featured Article •
Just last week, I was talking to a friend about some hot topics that plague our society. We talked about these issues in relation to the upcoming presidential election. As we hashed out our opinions on each topic, she stopped and revealed her embarrassment for lacking defenses regarding certain topics.
It reminded me of what Peter wrote in his first letter: “Set apart the Messiah as Lord in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear” (1 Peter 3:14-16).
Do you know what you believe? You may have developed your own opinions on certain topics, but do you have a biblical defense for them? I told my friend that if she has even the slightest question about her beliefs, then she should go to God’s Word. And even after that, she should make sure all of her opinions are in line with what God says in the Bible.
There is no black and white when it comes to deciding what you believe about some issues. People broadcast so many different opinions, that it seems most choose to ride the fence in the gray area instead, which can cause confusion.
All of the candidates in this year’s election believe different things—and some even ride the fence. You could pick and choose from each one what you agree with and what you don’t, but you’ll never find the perfect candidate who believes exactly as you do.
The most important decision you can make this election year is to vote biblical values. Your first job is to put God first, arm yourself with the Truth, and approach each issue with “gentleness and respect” as Jesus would.
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
Voter Generation Gap
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on April 10, 2008 Featured Article •
My grandma’s music is not my music today. My granddad’s paycheck didn’t look like the paycheck I get every two weeks. And their political party choice may not match mine. Times sure have changed.
There is definitely a generational gap in how we do things. But one thing we do share and connect on is our values—because we believe in what the timeless truth of God’s Word has to say about our culture’s hot topics.
A Gallup Poll recently stated that approximately 6 in 10 Americans say religion is very important in their lives, while 26% say religion is fairly important and only 16% say it is not very important at all.
Religious times sure have changed since my grandparents were my age. My grandmother used to tell me how good times were when she was growing up. I remember her detailing the time she and her family drove to California.
During their journey, they stopped on the side of the road one night to sleep out in the open air. The next night they randomly knocked on the door of a stranger in a town along the way to rest their heads. And throughout the trip, they picked up several hitchhikers to offer a helping hand because it was the right thing to do.
This would never happen today. Yes, times have changed—especially in our belief system, morals, and religious values in America.
Gallup said: “The percentage of Americans who reported that religion was very important in their lives was slightly lower between 1978 and 1989, but was significantly higher in surveys conducted in 1965 and 1952.”
Statistics aside, with each passing year our country seems to move more toward the idea that religion is less important. No wonder our culture is dying morally.
It is our job as believers to help make the right decisions when choosing which way our country should go. It’s time to stand up and speak out about what is truth according to God’s Word. A great place to do this is at the polls this year.
You don’t have to get out and vote like your grandma did. But you can get out and vote for morals and values according to God’s Word.
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
Moral Fabric
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on April 8, 2008 Featured Article •
My grandmother was a fantastic quilt-maker. My parents, brother, and I have a collection of at least 8-10 quilts made by her hands that are scattered between us.
I have used one of these quilts over time excessively—dragging it around, washing it, allowing my dog to trample all over it, washing it again, and so on. As a result, after almost 20 years of use, it is extremely worn, thin, and falling apart at the seams.
If I protected it and taken better care of it throughout the years, then it would definitely be in much better shape—maybe even like new.
The same is true of the moral fabric in our country. Over the years, we’ve neglected to protect this area of moral and sexual purity in the lives of our families, schools, and government.
Time and again, we’ve seen leaders in government fall prey to the temptation of sexual immorality. Because our leaders have set this sort of example for the rest of our nation and have in some way influenced others that this issue is not important, we have become weak and torn in this area.
We have become numb to the provocative nature of what is produced on our televisions and movie screens. We have become numb to the explicit lyrics that come through our speakers. We have become numb to the sexual sin that is now widely accepted throughout our country.
Wall Street Journal editor Robert Bartley once said, “If America is to decline, it will not be because of military overstretch nor the trade balance, Japanese management secrets, or even the federal deficit. If a decline is underway, it’s a moral one.”
First Timothy 4:12 tells us that we should be examples in our speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. And 1 Corinthians 6:18 says, “Flee from sexual immorality!”
This election year, let’s remember what God’s Word says about this issue and vote for our biblical values. Remember the sanctity of sexual purity as God intends.
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
An Infallible Guide on the Road to the White House
Posted by: K.D. Hastings on March 25, 2008 Featured Article •
Before my family left town on a short trip during spring break, I purchased a GPS unit to help guide us on our way.
While the particular unit I bought is regarded as a low-end unit, it was well rated by consumers and included the feature I wanted most—text-to-speech. The female voice, while poorly enunciating many words, gave us confidence as we navigated unfamiliar streets.
Now at home where I know the roads, the unit is simply a curiosity. With no remorse or fear, I disobey the unit’s calls to turn left in ½ mile and willfully ignore its chastising tone as it tells me to “make a legal U-turn.”
Yet if you are in an unfamiliar area, a GPS unit can be quite handy. And as long as your inputs are accurate, the GPS unit provides an accurate route.
On our jaunt to the beach, we discovered the unit was not infallible. Searching its database of “points of interest,” we asked it to direct us to the closest Wal-Mart. We dutifully followed its commands, impressed by its knowledge and the certainty of its tone. It was only when we made a turn and noted signs welcoming us to a state park that we began to seriously doubt the unit. Then when only a few feet into the park the GPS unit announced, “You have arrived,” we knew the machine was not to be fully trusted.
The little machine was thoroughly convinced our car was in the parking lot of a Super Wal-Mart; we knew we were entering Gulf Shores State Park.
As it turned out, the discount store was about a half mile behind us. The unit told us to turn left when we should have turned right.
We make decisions about what route to take everyday and most of them have nothing to do with turning right or left and going straight on the highway. During 2008, all of us who are of voting age will have the opportunity to make a decision on who should represent us in Congress and who should take up residence in the White House.
Just as I do with my GPS, beware where you place your confidence. During the Cold War, President Ronald Reagan said of the Soviets, “Trust, but verify.” It is sage advice for us as we consider our options on Election Day.
Until that day, we will continue to be bombarded by messages—from the candidates and their surrogates—on the issues. Shifting through the chaff and making a decision on who has earned your vote in any contested political race is difficult. A sure foundation for this task is biblical precepts. Looking to your faith-informed convictions is a ready and reliable aid in determining who gets your support.
That’s values-based voting. Fulfilling your civic duty in this way means you ignore party labels and turn aside personal desires to vote for a candidate simply because they will benefit you economically. It involves weighing each candidate’s stance on the issues with the Bible’s perspective on the issue, as much as possible. Your values can give you needed direction.
I’ve learned I can’t completely trust my nifty but fallible GPS device. I can, however, completely trust God’s revealed Word as a guidepost in making my Election Day decisions.
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
Letting Your Voice Be Heard
Posted by: K.D. Hastings on March 24, 2008 Featured Article •
A news report on our local CBS affiliate addressed a bill recently introduced in our state legislature that would further regulate what kind of smoke detectors homeowners can install in their houses. The report referred disparagingly to “high-powered lobbyists,” hired by smoke detector manufacturers, who were resisting the legislation that called for new restrictions.
So what’s wrong with “high-powered lobbyists” or “low-powered” lobbyists, if one exists? I recognize that the tobacco and liquor industries have lobbyists that have at times wielded far too much influence, as have gambling groups and unions. Yet at the end of the day we all have at least one “special interest”: ourselves. And more than likely, there are one or more special interest groups with individuals assigned the responsibility to share your interest in the capitol building.
The wonder of our government, as a participatory republic, is that our voice matters. And if we really want to make an impact, we can join our voice with other like-minded voices. It’s the power of one—multiplied!
So before we raise our voice complaining about the influence lobbyists, no matter their “power,” have on our elected officials, we need to ratchet up our own voices.
Share your values out loud! And at the polls on Election Day.
Permalink | Tell a Friend |
|
|
|
|
|
Back to top of page.
