Quite a loaded article filled with presumptions about Christianity, politics, and what the two have in common, if anything.
For the Christian, it's ok to have opinions about political and social issues. After all, even though we are NOTW (not of this world), that is spiritually, we still exercise our being here, that is, on planet Earth, until further notice.
If you believe in God, chances are you are probably pro-life and against abortion because you value the sanctity of life, however, does that mean we should demand our way in a secular society and by default on individuals thereof? I am against the act of abortion, and my wife (if I had one) and I would not carry it out but I cannot stand against someone who wishes to have an abortion because that would be imposing my view on their end and that's not love. The same principle would apply to another secular issue which is civil unions. As Christians, we are opposed to this for it is detestable in the eyes of God and thus the unholy ceremony is prohibited in church. However, we cannot stand in the way of the state wishing to grant that which it has the authority to do.
Another issue, gun-rights, more prevalent in the United States than anywhere else in the world, is highly controversial because radicals hijack Christianity in order to advocate for their Constitution given right. Their 2nd amendment is what grants them the right to bear arms, NOT Christ Jesus. Even though I would not exercise that right, I cannot stand against someone who would since politics allow for it.
It's quite alright to stand against something without demanding our own way. Simply put, we can carry out our own spiritual convictions, and lead by example in our own lives so that it serves as a testament to what we believe. That should be reward enough for us to live by instead of trying to get everyone to think and act like we do.
What's not ok is to have or make political AFFILIATIONS because politics has to do with power/government. If you look through the article, you can see what takes place in the realm of politics. Things mainly derived from deceit. Things like slander, gossip, concealment of information, corruption, theft, etc. By aligning yourself with a candidate, we willingly or unwillingly become subject to them and become apologists for the candidate or party they're affiliated with and in so doing lose focus on our own campaigns, that is, our walk with Christ.
Take a look at Donald Trump, who in the power bestowed upon him by constituents, stomped on other constituents, help up a bible upside-down in front of a religious building and patted himself on the back for doing the work of the devil. Do you really think he cares about Christianity aside from the fact that many who call themselves Christians gave him their vote? Do you think he cares more about God than he does about holding the highest position of the lone superpower of the world? He may be aligned with your views on political and social issues but that doesn't mean he cares about the things of God. The very fact he wants to be in power is a testament to his ultimate desire, self-aggrandizement. This desire is something all politicians possess although to varying degrees, with some more so than others.
Jesus was clear on how he felt about either of the two (power & government). For proof, consider the fact He declined Satan's offer (3rd temptation) and stood against Rome and the Pharisees on multiple occasions. Also, remember what government really is and what better example of what it wishes to become than the beast of Revelation.
Abstain from political affiliations for they serve no Christian purpose in secular society.
No comments:
Post a Comment