Here in the UK, we have a lot of political upheaval going on right now. The Prime minister has resigned and a new leader is being elected. There are various parties and political ideologies, different candidates and opinions. So where should the Christian stand in all this?
Firstly, let me stress that I am not going to attempt to put forward one party over another but rather look at some biblical guidance regarding the issue. As Christians we should vote with conscience regarding biblical values and standards. It would likely take into account such things as the rights of the unborn child, biblical marriage, honesty and integrity in public service. As well as a right to practice freedom of worship both public and private to name but a few considerations.
These are things we do not take for granted - yet we must watch we do not unwittingly vote to bring in anti-Christian values.
One very famous Christian politician of times past was William Wilberforce who was instrumental in the abolition of the slave trade. Daniel in the OT and Mordecai were in places of influence and power. The Lord Jesus in contrast had no interest in political influence. His was a greater and spiritual Kingdom.
Question: What do you do when you can’t find anyone who your conscience is comfortable with voting for?
1 Timothy 2v1-3:
exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour
Where ever you lie politically (if at all), we have a clear directive in scripture to pray for our rulers and governments. Now the back drop of these verses is a time when Rome ruled and the despotic Emperor Nero was in power. You could hardly consider a more anti-Christian and wicked leader. Yet believers of his day were told to pray.
Why? Prayer dear friends changes things. Prayer gives us God’s heart and mind and strength to go on. Prayer not only changes circumstances and situations but also our attitude toward them.
Remember, leaders and governments come and go but God’s Kingdom goes from strength to strength every day; now and forever.
Much love in Christ from Pastor John and all @GCF