February Tanner's Trail

Christians and Politics
by Pastor John Tanner

One of the noticeable changes in church life over the past 25 years has been the increasing involvement of Christians in politics. When I began to serve churches in the mid-60’s there was a distinct hesitance to “mix politics and religion.” I do recall two instances in which Presidents Jimmy Carter and Lyndon Johnson were asked to speak to Baptist gatherings, however part of that hesitation was the realization that many people feel emotionally bound to a particular party or candidate. To identify Jesus with an opposing viewpoint would automatically eliminate them from considering Jesus as their Savior.

Another danger of politicizing church life lies in the danger of abandoning the church’s main eternal task for a task which is transient and temporal.

The Scriptures reveal several Christian leaders who appear concerned but reluctant to be involved in secular government. Paul was frequently imprisoned but rarely spoke ill of the penal system or the emperor. He saw the government as God’s delegate of authority to keep order but little more. (Ro. 13:1-7). Peter commended Christians to “submit to governors” (1 Peter 2:13-14) and “honor the king” (17).

John the Baptist became politically involved when he criticized Herod’s adulterous taking of his brother Philip’s wife. Though his rebuke of the king’s immortality cost him his life, John never wavered in his calling to preach Jesus– not politics.

Jesus, our prime example, best set guidelines for us when he was questioned about supporting government by paying taxes. When asked by the Pharisees (Matt 22:15-22) whether he paid taxes, Jesus responded, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." Obviously Jesus believed that the kingdoms of man should be supported. Good government is preferable to bad. But the Christian’s lifetime citizenship is in a Heavenly Kingdom. Our duty, at most, is to encourage righteousness among rulers as in every other sector of society.

History demonstrates that churches have everything to lose and nothing to gain when they become a tool of government. Parties and candidates, on the other hand, have everything to gain and nothing to lose when they politicize churches. Christians are best served when they are 100% committed to Christ’s kingdom but reserve neutrality , independence, and righteous support for the Kingdoms and candidates of this world!

Something to think about…

See you Sunday, JT