Can a Christian participate in the political life of his country?
Origin of the word politics
For ages, politics has remained a taboo subject in the church, some believe that politics is above all a question of citizenship, others believe that politics is reserved for pagans. Just before I give my opinion on this. I will share with you a definition of politics.
Politics: The word politics is a loanword from a Latin word which itself comes from Greek. If we go back to the origins, we find the Greek name “polis” which means “city”. Note that “city”, here, is not a synonym for town: it is to be understood in the sense of “city-state”, that is to say an independent political and religious community. The Greek word “polis” has given several derivatives, including the adjective politês: “of the city, of the State”. Politês itself derived the adjective politikos which means “which concerns the citizens, relating to the State”. (Google source)
From all the definitions I have obtained, I conclude that politics is the art of leading. A politician is a leader. He is someone who is able to lead, influence, make good resolutions, etc.
So, can a Christian get involved in politics?
According to the Bible, I say yes that a Christian can do politics, on the contrary politics should be reserved for people with the fear of God because given the way that God has called us to live, a non-believer would mostly do laws that do not respect our Christian values.
However, it is important to note that the relationship between God and politics is complex and varies across cultures and religious beliefs. In some societies, religion is closely linked to politics and influences political decisions, while in others the separation between church and state is strictly maintained. It is important to respect different opinions and beliefs when it comes to religion and politics.
Countries where Religion and Politics are linked
There are several societies in which religion is closely linked to politics. Here are some examples :
1. Iran: Iran is an Islamic republic where Islamic law is the primary source of legislation. Political power is in the hands of the Supreme Guide, considered the supreme religious leader of the country.
2. Saudi Arabia: The official religion of Saudi Arabia is Sunni Islam and the country is ruled by the Saudi dynasty, who claim to be the custodians of Islam’s holy sites in Mecca and Medina.
3. Vatican: The Vatican is a sovereign state and the Catholic religion is the state religion. The Pope, as head of the Catholic Church, is also the head of state of the Vatican.
4. Israel: Israel is a Jewish state where the Jewish religion has significant influence on politics and legislation. Religious political parties also play an important role in Israeli politics.
In the Bible there are several types of anointing, there is the anointing of the prophets, and there is also the royal anointing, and David is an example of someone who received the royal anointing. A king is a politician because he is someone who rules a nation. Therefore, if it is not permissible for a Christian to engage in politics, why was the man after God’s own heart a politician?
In the books of Samuel we read the story of David and David was the greatest king the Jews knew. L’spirit of God was with David. And, the land was blessed.
There are also other countries where religion is closely linked to political life, such as India (Hinduism), Pakistan (Islam), Afghanistan (Islam), etc.
Let us also note that it is not religion which has the right to give shape to politics, but it is the morals and customs of the country which can leave room for politicians. Christians.
And despite everything, we can say that Yes, Christians can participate in the political life of their country. There are different ways that Christians can participate in politics by getting involved in campaigns or voting for candidates and parties that represent their ideas and beliefs. Christians can also get involved in Christian groups that pressure politicians to make decisions that reflect their values. Even when these Christians do not live in a country where religion is law.
What to remember in conclusion
The Bible does not give specific guidelines on how to participate in political life. However, it teaches principles that potentially guide Christians in their commitment policy.
First, the Bible teaches that political authorities were established by God (Romans 13:1-7). Christians are called to respect the laws and authorities of their country, unless they conflict with the will of God.
The Bible also teaches that we are to love our neighbor and seek the common good (Mark 12:31, Philippians 2:4). Speaking of political life, Christians are called to work for the well-being of their community and to seek justice and peace for all.
Finally, the Bible encourages Christians to pray for and obey their leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-4, Titus 3:1). Christians can therefore participate in political life as a responsible citizen, respecting biblical principles and seeking to do the will of God in their commitment policy.
I don’t know if you have already read the historical books of the Bible, if you haven’t yet I recommend it. Because it is by reading the Bible that you will know the truth and the truth will free you from all false reasoning.
If you have received the anointing of God to lead, to participate in the advancement of your country, it is advantageous to get to work, because day by day the world becomes more cruel and the laws are more and more against We. We need true Christian brothers and sisters in Parliament, in government capable of passing laws to improve our society. To say that you are not called to politics because our kingdom is in heaven is inconsistency, because according to the Bible, we are the salt of the earth, we are the light of the world and we have received the dominion in Jesus Christ. It is time to live the word in its entirety, without limiting ourselves by limits that we impose on ourselves and that God has ever imposed on us.
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References : 1 Samuel 16, 1 Peter 2 v 9, Matthew 5 v 13-14
Subject : Survey BGospel MagazineCan Christians participate in political life?
Writing : Stéphanie Pierre Louis
Revision : Pastor Davidson Beauvil and José Bautista
Section: THE Fan blog!
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