A Political Post... Sort of.

Post date: Sep 6, 2012 9:01:02 PM

Ugh! I can’t stand politics! And let me be fair and state - I despise it all the same no matter the party affiliation. Ok, of course, like everyone, I do prefer certain ideas over others. But the politicking that goes on is absolutely absurd. But that’s not the point of my post, just a rant as I struggle to get through both RNC and DNC speeches on youtube for the sake of being informed.

My facebook wall, and I have been very guilty of this myself, is exploding with status after status about politics. I don’t know how effective these posts are at persuading those who disagree with us to agree. But what is our position as followers of Jesus Christ in politics? It appears to me that a lot of Christians seem to think there is a correct candidate or a correct policy issue vote that is the ‘right’ choice if you are a believer. Is this true?

I don’t think so. Feel free to disagree with me though. As followers of Christ we are like-minded. But not necessarily on social issues, or tax law. We are united behind the important issue that Jesus Christ lived, died for our sins and was raised from the dead. That He stands as payment for our debt, reconciling us to our heavenly Father. THAT is what we can all agree on. That is what we should stand behind without fear of offending. We are united in Jesus Christ. Other issues, well to be honest, are going to have 11 different opinions for every 10 people. These other issues are the things that love bears, love endures, is patient and kind in, is not arrogant or rude, is not irritable or resentful (1 Corinth. 13). So in the political realm moving forward, I will try not to offend my brothers and sisters. I will try to love them as it is portrayed in 1st Corinthians. Because, as I stated already, I am very guilty of this myself.

Yes, politics sometimes crosses over and hits on hard issues where there should be a solid, united stand for followers of Christ. But it doesn’t appear to be very many. And even in these areas we should remember that our salvation is by grace alone through faith, not our current understanding of any other particular issue. And yes, voting is extremely important. You should be informed on the issues, you should pray for the leaders of our country to be wise and discerning. You should pray about the positions and take a stand based on your beliefs. Everyone votes their beliefs, whether it’s a Christian belief, a tax policy belief, a belief based on the fact you don’t believe in God. All public policy is based on the beliefs and worldviews of those who are voting.

So make room with me for grace in politics. Make room for love in politics. Even the important political issues pale in comparison to the surpassing importance of the gospel. So stand united in the gospel of Jesus Christ with believers on the other side of the political aisle even as you disagree on less important things.