Elections: Do they matter?

Posted by: Jim Richards on September 19, 2008 Featured Article •

Does it really matter who the next president will be? I know I am treading on dangerous ground venturing into politics. The old axiom for social grace is, don’t talk about religion or politics. Well, I promise not to do either. I am going to talk about Jesus, the Word of God and a Christan’s responsibility in the public square.

Jesus was very pointed about “render unto Caesar.” Although there was a Zealot (Jewish Nationalist) among his followers, Jesus did not foment rebellion. Jesus went to the extent of paying taxes with coins miraculously supplied in a fish’s mouth. Jesus even submitted to the punishment of death under governmental authority. The government saw the cross as a tool of capital punishment. We know that Jesus was paying for our sins by the shedding of his blood. Nevertheless, Jesus endorsed established government. He was no anarchist.

A very significant difference from the forms of government in biblical times and today is that we, the people, have a say in who rules over us. Biblical principles still apply for governmental rule. Since we have the privilege of participating in the selection of leaders, as believers we should seek to influence the direction of government toward biblical truth.

Rick Warren and Jim Wallis are seemingly trying to replace Jerry Falwell and James Dobson. The new guys are emphasizing their interpretations on poverty, the environment, and health care. Evangelical political engagement heightened in the late ’70s promoting the biblical positions on the sanctity of human life and gender roles. Now, same-sex marriage is being declared protected by the Constitution in several states. What were considered hot buttons two decades ago no longer resonate as they once did.

There is no question the environment is important. God has placed us on the planet to be good stewards. Health care falls under the purview of Christian benevolence. We should do all we can to help all we can. The Bible has much to say about the poor. How we treat the poor reflects on our practical Christianity. All of these are worth out attention. Yet, all other concerns pale in comparison to what we believe about where life begins and what comprises a marriage.

You may say that your vote does not matter. It does and so do your prayers. This election cycle demands our prayerful involvement. The Christian’s responsibility in the public square is not to partisan politics. Our responsibility is to vote for people who best reflect biblical values. If you are not registered, then do so. If you were not planning on voting, please cast your ballot guided by biblical principles.

Religion and politics are not to be discussed in delicate company. Jesus, the Word of God and believers in the public square are always appropriate.