What Does the Bible Say About Politics?
December 14, 2021 2023-01-10 19:57What Does the Bible Say About Politics?
In recent years, we have seen the intermingling of faith and politics like never before. Heated discourse has permeated traditionally sacred spaces and political rhetoric has taken over the pulpits of churches. As our nation faces growing divides, there is a popular notion that bringing Jesus into politics will help resolve issues of morality.
However, with so much division in the world today, one must wonder—should Christians get involved in politics?
We are called to spread the Gospel and make the Kingdom of God known on earth. Our innate desire to bring goodness to the world and improve life for others is an impulse that comes directly from God. For some, this may lead them down a path toward public office and political involvement. However, at some point, we all must choose where to place our trust—in the authority of God or in the authority of man.
As Christians, we turn to the Bible for guidance as we navigate this world. There are many mixed messages that can become confusing and distracting, which is why returning to scripture is so essential. So, what exactly does the Bible say about politics? Quite a lot, actually.
Politics in the Bible
Since the fall of man, governments have ruled over the earth. The Babylonians, the Egyptians, the Israelites, and many others played an important role in God’s plan to redeem humanity. But governing bodies are not an end, an ultimate good, they are only a means to a good and just society.
In both the Old and New Testament, we find evidence of the importance of human government, along with instructions, guidance, and encouragement for living a life focused on the Kingdom of Heaven.
Christ clearly differentiates the Kingdom of God from the kingdom on earth when he stands before Pilate and 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” (John 18:36).
As Christians, we are called to recognize the authority of the rulers of this world, an authority to govern and maintain order in society. However, we are called to live by grace, apart from the world in all ways, and to “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33). Jesus commands us in the Gospel of John, to be “in the world, but not of the world” because we are called to a higher purpose.
The Politics of Jesus Revisited
Jesus came to earth to lead us on the path toward Heaven. The relationship between human authority and God’s authority was central to many of his teachings. To help you understand and navigate this relationship, we created a new resource that walks you through scriptures and explains the history of Christianity and politics.
The Politics of Jesus Revisited: How Should Christians Interact with a Highly Politicized World? explores what it means to be a Christian in today’s world and answers some of the most common questions Christians have about politics, such as:
- Was Jesus political?
- How involved should Christians be in politics, if at all?
- Can politics and faith mix?
- What did the early Christians think about politics?
- Is there a biblical basis for political involvement?
Uncover the answers to these questions by downloading the guide and finding out what the Bible really says about politics.
The Role of Christians in the Global Community
As political rhetoric continues to press us further apart, Christians are called to focus our hearts on Christ and bring unity to a divided world. Christ invites us to be a part of His Kingdom, the Kingdom of Heaven, and to make His Kingdom known on earth. We have an important role to play in building a better world on earth that points toward Christ’s kingdom. We invite you to dive into scripture with us and join the movement to reclaim hearts for Christ!
Download our latest resource and learn how to navigate the current political climate by focusing on the teachings of Christ.