By Shane Idleman) “Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do” (1 Chron. 12:32).
We don’t have to compromise our principles to be involved in politics—what good is salt left in the shaker, or a light that is hidden? “Politics” is not a bad word. In simple terms, politics refers to governing or leading a group of people. Politics won’t save America, but in order to implement change, honor God, and help others, we must take action. To suggest that God does not want us to elect godly leaders and promote godly legislation runs contrary to His nature (see Rom. 13). Silence is not an option.
1. Government is God-ordained. “We the people” are to lead according to God’s Word. Many say, “We don’t need to get involved. God will take care of everything.” Ironically, I’ve never seen that mindset when it comes to work and income. We work, or we don’t eat. God blesses hard work and diligence in financial matters; why wouldn’t He when it comes to leading a nation?
2. Apathy is not biblical. A believer should be involved in running for office, voting and/or monitoring those in office to assure that they perform their duties. The welfare of society often falls into the hands of the Christian community. I challenge those who believe we should remain passive and silent to read the writings of the Old Testament prophets. They lamented, shed tears and pleaded with the people and the leaders to turn from their sins and to turn back to God—they spoke the truth in love. Even Jesus wept for Jerusalem when He saw its destruction was near. Martin Luther King Jr., in “A Letter From Birmingham Jail” on April 16, 1963, wrote, “We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people.” I hold the same opinion today. CONTINUE
To solidify your argument you quote MLK. A known philanderer and adulterer. How typical of today’s “believers”. Misinterpreting or misusing scripture is yet another destructive trait. Romans 13 is a lesson on obedience, not one on runnng for political office. I see you overlooked “render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s”. I don’t recall Yeshua urging them to run for office and get the taxes reduced if they don’t like paying them. Every “decent politician” that ran for office and was elected has eventually been corrupted by the very politics he/she sought to change. It’s like an actor becoming a Christian and thinking they can continue to work in Hollywood and not be influenced by the evil around them. If you lay down with pigs you wake up smelling like swine.