What does Jesus say about how to Vote?
for 20 March 2022 Saturday is state election time. I realise many may have voted already. Each election I find myself prayerfully asking the question: ‘what is the most God honouring way to vote this election?’ If your looking for specifics, the bible was not written in a time of democratic government, so we don’t find Jesus specifically instructing his disciples principles on how to vote. I wish it were that simple. You could vote based on which candidate has ethics and values that most align with that of Jesus. Christianity has a clear value system that puts love of God and love of other above all things. For example, Paul’s letter to the Corinthians: “if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” 1 Cor 13:2. This still doesn’t help too much. While many different Christian circles find it very clear which party or candidate best represents how Jesus would act, it’s odd that deeply committed faithful Christians can come up with such opposing opinions. From what I can see, most sides of politics have some policies that are both opposed and complimentary to Christian values. As much as people try to paint an image of others, I find it hard to believe that all politicians are selfish, power hungry, unloving, mean-spirited people who don’t care about their constituents. The amount of abuse and criticism all politicians receive today, I would not wish on anyone. To endure such abuse, surely means they are not motivated by ego or driven by the approval of others. Generally, I find most politicians in Australia are trying their best to help others, though they have different methods, priorities and understandings as to the best way to achieve that. I also know from experience that leadership in todays climate is challenging, their seems to be a cultural current that shows a lack of respect and deep distrust of all types of leadership and authority. While leaders try to make the best and wisest decisions based on the information they have at the time, the resources available and the time frame given; it is very easy to be mis-interpreted, mis-represented and criticised by others who don’t have the same information available to them. The longer I am involved in and observing leadership, the more I find myself praying for all leaders that they simply receive the strength, wisdom and revelation to do the best job they can; and I give thanks for them. For those leaders that have neglected the principle’s of love, I pray that the Holy Spirit can convict them quickly to correct their ways. The one clear passage from the New Testament that speaks about the new church’s relationship with the government is a letter of advice to the young church leader Timothy (1 Tim 2:1-2) “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness … Continue reading
