We just finished another election. Elections always come with strong emotions regardless of which candidates win or lose. Based on Henry County election results, almost two-thirds of those reading this are excited about the outcome of the presidential race, and about one-third are disheartened. How should Christians respond to political elections? Christians have always had a unique relationship to government. In the days of the Roman Empire, Paul penned these words:
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Romans 13:1-7
The Roman Empire was an authoritarian regime. Individuals had little or no power to influence politics in any meaningful way. Therefore, it’s sometimes challenging to determine how Christians should respond in a constitutional republic like ours. In theory, at least, the people are the ultimate power in our government. Our leaders are elected to enact the will of the people. As Christians, then, we should seek to support stances and candidates that Jesus would support.
But, just as importantly, once the elections happen, no matter who wins, our responsibility is to pray for our leaders. Ultimately, God is in control and no earthly authority can ever usurp His reign. If you are thrilled with the results, pray that the winning candidates in every level of government will govern wisely and with Godly choices. If you are disappointed by the results, rest assured that God is still in control, and then pray that the winning candidates in every level of government will govern wisely and with Godly choices. Our job is largely the same in either case!
Jesus calls us to be Christians first, not pledge ultimate allegiance to either political party. When we reverse those roles and put our identity in being republican or democrat first and our identify as a Christian second, we miss the mark. The task of Christians is what it always has been, and always will be: to live as disciples of Jesus and pointing the way to salvation to all we meet.
Pastor John Reside
First Christian Church
