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What Does the Bible Say About Politics? – Viral Believer
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What Does the Bible Say About Politics?

Introduction

As Christians, our faith is meant to inform every aspect of our lives, including our political views and engagement. However, in today’s divisive political climate, it can be challenging to know how to navigate the complex intersection of faith and politics.

How can we align our political views with biblical principles and values? What does the Bible actually say about government and authority? What is the role of individual Christians in political affairs?

In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about politics, including government and authority, Christian civic responsibility, the separation of church and state, and the role of individual Christians in political affairs. We will examine biblical examples of political authority and instruction on obedience to government.

We will also discuss the importance of Christian civic responsibility and individual involvement in politics, as well as the distinction between the separation of church and state and individual believers’ responsibility to be involved in politics.

Whether you are a seasoned political activist or simply trying to understand how your faith relates to your political views, this article will provide valuable insights and guidance on how Christians can engage with politics in a way that aligns with biblical principles and values.

By exploring what the Bible says about politics, we can gain a deeper understanding of our role as citizens and our responsibility to work for justice and righteousness in our communities and our world.

politics in the Bible

Understanding Politics and the Bible

Definition of Politics

Politics can be defined as the activities associated with the governance of a country or area, especially the debate between parties having power. It includes the making of laws, the administration of public policies, and the allocation of resources.

Definition of the Bible

The Bible is the holy book of Christianity, consisting of the Old and New Testaments. It contains teachings, stories, and examples that guide Christians in their faith and daily lives.

Relationship between Politics and the Bible

While the Bible is not a political document, it does contain principles and teachings that have implications for political life. The Bible speaks to issues of justice, morality, and the proper role of government in society. Christians should strive to align their political views with biblical principles and values.

What the Bible Says about Government and Authority

Biblical Examples of Political Authority

The Bible contains numerous examples of political authority, from the rule of kings in the Old Testament to the Roman Empire in the New Testament. These examples show that God allows governments to exist and exercise authority over their citizens.

For instance, in the Old Testament, God anointed kings to rule over the nation of Israel.

In 1 Samuel 10:1, God tells Samuel to anoint Saul as king over Israel: “Then Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on his head, and kissed him and said: ‘Is it not because the Lord has anointed you commander over His inheritance?'”

This shows that God is the one who appoints political leaders and gives them authority over their subjects.

In the New Testament, the Roman Empire was the dominant political power. Jesus himself submitted to the authority of the Roman government, even though it was a pagan and oppressive regime.

In John 19:10-11, Jesus tells Pilate, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above.” This suggests that even the most despotic rulers are subject to God’s authority.

Biblical Instructions on Obedience to Government

The Bible instructs Christians to submit to and obey the governing authorities. Romans 13:1-2 says, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.

Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.” This does not mean that Christians should blindly follow the government, but rather that we should recognize their authority as coming from God.

At the same time, the Bible also instructs us to hold those in power accountable for their actions. In Micah 6:8, the prophet Micah says, “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”

This suggests that Christians should work for justice and righteousness, even if it means challenging the authority of those in power.

The Role of Government in Biblical Times

In biblical times, the government was responsible for maintaining order and justice, as well as providing for the welfare of its citizens.

This included protecting the poor and vulnerable, as well as punishing wrongdoers. While the specifics of how government should carry out these responsibilities may differ in modern times, the principles of justice and care for others still apply.

For example, in Deuteronomy 24:17-18, God instructs the Israelites not to pervert justice for the fatherless and the widow and to not take a widow’s garment as collateral for a loan.

This shows that even in ancient times, God cared for the welfare of vulnerable members of society and expected the government to do the same.

Christian Civic Responsibility

The Biblical Call to Participate in Civic Life

The Bible calls on Christians to be engaged citizens and to work for the good of their communities. Jeremiah 29:7 says, “And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace.”

This means that we should be involved in the political process, including voting, advocating for policies that promote justice and morality, and holding elected officials accountable.

In addition, in Mark 12:17, Jesus says, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” This suggests that Christians have a responsibility to engage with the government and participate in civic life, while also recognizing their ultimate allegiance to God.

Examples of Christian Political Activism Throughout History

Throughout history, Christians have been at the forefront of political movements that have sought to promote justice and morality. This includes the fight for civil rights, the abolition of slavery, and the fight against poverty and injustice.

Christians should be inspired by these examples and work to continue this legacy of political activism.

For example, William Wilberforce was a Christian politician who played a key role in the abolition of slavery in the British Empire.

He was motivated by his Christian faith and believed that all people were created in the image of God and deserved to be free. His example shows how Christians can make a positive impact on society through political engagement.

The Importance of Voting and Engaging in Political Discourse

One of the most important ways that Christians can be involved in politics is by exercising their right to vote. This is an opportunity to have a say in the direction of our communities and our country.

Additionally, Christians should be engaged in political discourse, listening to others and sharing their own perspectives in a respectful and constructive manner. This includes engaging with those who hold different views, seeking to understand their perspectives, and finding common ground where possible.

The Role of Individual Christians in Political Affairs

Individual Christians have an important role to play in political affairs. This includes not only voting and engaging in political discourse but also running for political office, working for political campaigns, and volunteering for political organizations.

Christians should strive to bring their values and principles into the political arena, promoting justice, morality, and care for others.

For example, Tim Scott is a Christian politician who serves as a United States Senator from South Carolina. He has spoken publicly about his faith and the role it plays in his political views and engagement. His example shows how individual Christians can make a positive impact on politics and society.

Separation of Church and State

Definition of Separation of Church and State

Separation of church and state is the principle that government should not interfere with religious institutions and that religious institutions should not interfere with the affairs of the government.

Biblical Basis for Separation of Church and State

While the Bible does not explicitly endorse the separation of church and state, it does provide a basis for this principle. In Matthew 22:21, Jesus says, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

This suggests that there are separate spheres of authority for the government and the church, and that Christians should respect the authority of both.

Additionally, in John 18:36, Jesus says, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.”

This shows that the kingdom of God is distinct from earthly governments and that Christians should not seek to establish a theocracy or impose their religious views on others through political means.

The Difference Between the Separation of Church and State and Individual Believers’ Responsibility to Be Involved in Politics

It’s important to understand the distinction between the separation of church and state and individual believers’ responsibility to be involved in politics.

While the separation of church and state is a principle that restricts the involvement of religious institutions in government affairs, individual believers have a responsibility to engage in politics and work for the good of their communities.

The separation of church and state is intended to prevent the government from establishing or promoting a particular religion or interfering with the free exercise of religion.

This allows individuals to freely practice their religion without fear of government interference or persecution. It also prevents religious institutions from gaining too much power or influence over the government.

On the other hand, individual believers have a responsibility to be involved in politics and work for the good of their communities.

This includes participating in the political process through voting, advocacy, and political engagement. Christians should seek to promote justice, morality, and care for others through their political involvement.

In summary, while the separation of church and state restricts the involvement of religious institutions in government affairs, individual believers have a responsibility to engage in politics and work for the good of their communities.

Christians should seek to promote justice, morality, and care for others through their political involvement while also respecting the principle of the separation of church and state.

The Role of the Church in Promoting Justice and Morality

While the church should not directly engage in politics, it does have a role to play in promoting justice and morality in society. This includes advocating for policies that align with biblical values, such as caring for the poor and vulnerable and speaking out against injustice and oppression.

The church can also provide guidance and support to individual Christians who are engaging in political activism or running for political office.

For example, in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, many churches played a key role in advocating for racial justice and equality.

They provided a space for organizing and mobilizing, and many clergy members were actively involved in protests and demonstrations. This shows how the church can be a powerful force for promoting justice and morality in society without directly engaging in politics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as Christians, we are called to engage with politics in a way that aligns with biblical principles and values. We have a responsibility to work for justice and righteousness in our communities and our world while respecting the separation of church and state.

By following the biblical examples of political authority and instruction on obedience to government, we can better understand our role as citizens and our responsibility to hold those in power accountable for their actions.

Individual Christians have an important role to play in political affairs, including voting, advocacy, and political engagement. Through our participation in the political process, we can work to promote justice, morality, and care for others while also respecting the authority of the government.

By seeking to promote the common good and work for justice and righteousness for all people, regardless of their religious beliefs, we can make a positive impact on society and fulfill our responsibility as Christians.

Ultimately, by understanding what the Bible says about politics and aligning our political views with biblical principles and values, we can bring a sense of hope and healing to our world.

As we work for justice and righteousness, we can be a powerful force for good and a testimony to the love and compassion of Christ. Let us be faithful in our engagement with politics, always seeking to promote the common good and live out our faith in all areas of our lives.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.