the pulpit , what I say will be interpreted as representing the authority of the church , even if I give disclaimers about these being my own views . And that might keep people from hearing me on the one , essential commission God gave to me : to preach the gospel to all people .
You are likely different . If you ’ re not a pastor , you have more freedom in expounding your political views because most people won ’ t associate your view with that of the church . The Dutch theologian Abraham Kuyper distinguished between the church as an organism and the church as an organization .
As an organism , members of the church should permeate all walks of society , seeking to bring their Christian worldview to even the smallest questions of life . As an organization , however , the church ’ s calling is not politics , so its leaders should not generally associate the church ’ s identity with a political ideology . Following the lead of Jesus ( more on this below ), we should show restraint in getting involved in political matters .
That means that if you don ’ t represent the “ church as organization ” like I do , you have more freedom to be vocal about your viewpoints . Even so , don ’ t buy into the myth that politics is of first importance . Know when to turn the political dial down so you can turn the gospel dial up .
I receive more angry emails about politics , from both sides , than all other issues put together . I wish I got more emails about doubling our missionary force , planting more churches , raising up volunteers , caring for single moms , protecting the unborn , and recruiting more mentors for our prison ministry . Sadly , most of the angry emails argue that I ’ m not saying enough about the upcoming presidential race or suggest I should talk a little bit more about some issue . Our churches are dividing over politics , and for that we should grieve .
When you walk by your neighbors ’ house , and they have a sign in their yard promoting the other candidate , is your first instinct to think , How could they be so dumb ? Or is your first thought , I wonder if they know Jesus , and then to pray for them ?
Almost 60 percent of Americans say they don ’ t have any close friends who vote differently from them . That statistic by itself proves how much people believe this first myth .
Myth 2 : Politics Are of No Importance
The second myth is the exact opposite of the first . Some believe politics have no importance in their lives . They say highminded things like , “ Jesus is my President ” and avoid political processes altogether . This attitude also is a myth . And very unbiblical .
Joseph , Daniel , and Nehemiah worked within the political realm of their nations to see God accomplish great things and prosper his people during difficult times . Esther helped to thwart a mass destruction of Jews in Persia using her relationship with the king . From King David through his line of descendants , as the leader went , so also the nation followed . Good and faithful kings in Israel brought peace and
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