Religion & Politics

Few topics are able to stir the ire of people as much as a discussion on religion and politics.  In fact, I’m sure some are reading this article that might normally skip by this page because the title caught their attention.  However, before I address the relationship between religion and politics, I would like to express a desire and make an observation about politics.  I wish more disciples of Christ would practice their religion like they do their politics.

• I wish more Christians would be as vocal about their Christianity as they are their politics.
• I wish more Christians would be as willing to promote Jesus Christ to the lost as they are their presidential candidate to their neighbors.
• I wish more Christians would be as willing to defend the doctrine of Christ as they are the platform of their political party.

Do you not find it strange that God’s children can be moved to be so vocal and involved when it comes to politics, but so timid and uninvolved when it comes to Christianity?  Brethren, our actions betray us!  Passion is driven by love, and a lack of passion for the cause of Christ betrays our waning love for him.

Now to the topic at hand.  Should religion and politics mix?  Should the church be involved in politics?  The answer to that question is a qualified “no.”  If you’re talking about strictly political issues, “no.”  Such issues as education reform, welfare reform, income tax, the economy, foreign policy, etc. are issues that can have differing perspectives.  For the church to take a position on such issues misses the mission of the church and drives a wedge between itself and honest people who hold a different viewpoint.  Concerning such political issues, Paul sums up our responsibility in Romans 13 by saying that we should pray, pay, and obey.

However, if you’re talking about moral issues that have been politicized, “yes,” not only should the church be involved, but it must.  Abortion issues, euthanasia issues, homosexual marriage issues, alcohol issues, gambling issues, etc., these are issues that are moral issues and the voice of the church must be heard!  Friends remember, the church is the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15).  Not only does the church have the right to speak out on such moral issues, it has a God given responsibility to speak out on such issues.

If we’re talking about taxes, economy, education, foreign policy, well now, all I have to offer is my opinion which may very well be inferior to yours – pay no mind.  However, on moral issues, God has already spoken and we know exactly where we should stand on those issues.  On political issues…vote your opinion and freely oppose those who differ with you.  However, on moral issues, we dare not find ourselves in opposition to God.