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How Should Our Faith Inform Our Politics?
Politics and faith are two subjects that frequently intersect yet can be difficult to navigate, especially within the church family. As believers, it’s crucial that we approach issues of government, law, and elections through the lens of scripture, not simply culture, tradition, or personal comfort.
The Apostle Paul speaks to this in Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (ESV)
So, how should Christians approach politics? First, we are called to be good citizens, engaged in the welfare of our communities and nation (Jeremiah 29:7, Titus 3:1), seeking peace and justice wherever we live. That means voting and participating in civic life is more than a right; it’s a God-given responsibility.
But the way we make political decisions must be shaped by a biblical worldview. In practical terms, before heading to the polls or weighing in on debates, we must diligently search the scriptures. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 tells us, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (ESV)
True biblical literacy (knowing and understanding what God’s Word actually says) is essential. Without it, we risk defaulting to the positions of our culture, a political party, or even our own preferences without truly considering what honors Christ.
When the issues at stake are moral, such as the sanctity of human life, the definition of marriage, religious freedom, or care for the vulnerable, God’s Word gives clear guidance. For example, scripture upholds the value of every human being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), calls us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves (Proverbs 31:8), and instructs us in living out justice and mercy (Micah 6:8). In these areas, a Christian’s vote should reflect biblical convictions, not simply which candidate is likable or which party holds power.
For issues that are not explicitly moral in nature, maybe questions about property taxes, zoning policies, or transportation bills, there is greater freedom. The Bible doesn’t prescribe a “Christian position” on every civic issue, so believers are free to use their God-given wisdom, life experience, and conscience as they decide.
It’s also important to be clear: At The Crossings Community Church, we are not a partisan church. That means we don’t back political parties or candidates from the pulpit, and we recognize that sincere, Bible-believing Christians can find themselves in different places on some political questions.
However, we are a conservative church in the historical, biblical sense, that is, we aim to conserve and uphold the values and teachings of scripture, not just follow the shifting winds of culture. This does often shape our stances on moral and ethical matters.
Some political lingo you might hear is “separation of church and state.” In our context, that doesn’t mean our faith has nothing to say to political questions. Rather, it means the government should not control the church, while believers should make their voices known in the public square, always with love, integrity, and respect.
Finally, as followers of Jesus, we should remember that our ultimate hope is not in politics or leaders, but in Christ Himself (Psalm 146:3-5). Governments come and go, but God’s kingdom endures forever. We are called to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2), pursue justice and mercy in the world, and stand courageously for what’s right, even when it’s not popular.
In everything, let’s be people known more for our biblical convictions and Christlike character than our party affiliations or bumper stickers. As we grow in true biblical literacy, learning, understanding, and applying God’s Word to every area of life, we are better equipped to engage our culture wisely, winsomely, and faithfully for Christ’s glory.
Pastor Justin |
