Guidance for Navigating This Political Season

This political season is shaping up to be highly eventful. Former President Trump has survived two assassination attempts and is currently a convicted felon awaiting sentencing. Meanwhile, President Biden, under pressure from his party, has stepped aside for Vice President Kamala Harris to lead as the Democratic candidate.
While Trump seems positioned for victory, Harris has garnered considerable support, showcasing her eloquence and composure in speeches and debates, which establishes her as a formidable contender. Many Americans are excited about the prospect of electing the first female president and the second president of color. LGBTQ+ and pro-choice advocates are counting on her to sustain and build upon the momentum established during Biden’s administration. On the other hand, Trump maintains a loyal base among MAGA supporters, conservative stalwarts, and far-right factions who see his campaign as a chance to fulfill his previous agenda and reclaim what they feel was lost during Biden's presidency. Concerns linger about how each candidate's election could impact foreign conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, with fears of civil unrest if the outcome is contentious. In this charged atmosphere, how are Christians called to respond?

While it is unwise and unbiblical to be dogmatic about whom to vote for, the Bible offers helpful guidance on the posture Christians should assume regardless of political leanings.

There Are No Saviors in the White House

Matthew 24:22-25:

“If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive; but for the sake of the elect, those days will be shortened. At that time, if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you ahead of time.”

Before Jesus left His disciples, He prophesied difficult times ahead. Ironically, these difficulties were political in nature, as the Roman government would ultimately destroy Jerusalem and the Temple due to Jewish resistance to Caesar's rule. Jesus cautioned His disciples against the claims of other messiahs during this turmoil. They had spent three years with the true Messiah, and their only hope amid political upheaval was in Him. Any promise of salvation from another source would prove empty.

Similarly, we face an unprecedented political climate surrounding this election. The potential for social unrest, international conflicts, economic decline, and even civil conflict looms large. Both sides engage in fear-mongering to gain votes, causing many to cling to their candidate as the sole hope for America and the world. Jesus’ words remind us that any hope presented as the “only hope” is a false hope. The Kingdom that Jesus inaugurated continues to advance; it is a heavenly kingdom, not dependent on the rise or fall of any earthly nation. As Christians, our only hope lies in the furtherance of this Kingdom until Jesus returns to establish the new order. A valuable question to ask ourselves when voting is, “How does my vote further reflect my perspective on Jesus and His Kingdom?”

God Is Still in Control

Romans 13:1:

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”

Some misinterpret this verse to mean that every authority figure is good or godly, using it to justify terrible leaders. Paul does not imply that every authority deserves unquestioned allegiance. Instead, he emphasizes that all authority is ultimately under God’s rule and serves His purpose. God is sovereign over every authority, and regardless of how insidious some may be, they will ultimately submit to His rule, fulfilling His good purposes in the world. As we cast our votes this election season, we must understand that the outcome belongs to God, who is working through whomever becomes president.

Recognize That Our Ideals Are Not Defined by Our Votes

Romans 14:5:

“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.”

Jesus calls His followers to unity, not uniformity. The beauty of the body of Christ lies in our diversity, united by our belief in Jesus as the Son of God and our love for God and neighbor. While our expressions of worship may vary, we are admonished to live harmoniously based on our shared faith, rather than being divided by our differences.

Political propaganda often encourages us to create caricatures based on whom people vote for. In reality, individuals are far more complex. Our views on issues and candidate support are shaped by myriad factors. When engaging someone with differing political views, we should remain open to understanding their perspectives and experiences. While some motivations may be nefarious, it is wise to consider that differing opinions may arise from genuine convictions. Instead of severing fellowship with those who think differently, we should explore why we feel compelled to do so.

Maintain Biblical Convictions

Romans 14:23:

“But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.”

The issue of eating meat offered to idols weighed heavily on early Roman Christians. Paul sought to free them from guilt but clarified that this freedom should not lead to abandoning their convictions. If someone struggles to feel good about a particular choice, they should refrain from it.

In a similar way, our voting decisions may stem from deep convictions. We may not agree with every aspect of a candidate's platform, but through prayer and biblical insight, we may feel led to support a particular choice. It is important for Christians to allow space for fellow believers to maintain their convictions, even if they differ from our own. Instead of threatening disfellowship, we should encourage one another to embrace our convictions prayerfully. A healthy community thrives when members love one another, even when they disagree.

Conclusion

We may be heading for a tumultuous November. Many Americans will likely feel disappointment and anger, regardless of the election's outcome. Let’s pray for minimal social unrest and that cooler heads prevail in the face of potential conflict. As the Church, let us cultivate hearts that love our brothers and sisters, regardless of how we vote. Remember that Jesus is our only Savior, and His kingdom transcends earthly politics. God is in control, and no authority can undermine His ultimate redemptive purposes. Recognize each person as a complex individual, whose identity is not solely defined by their ballot. Finally, vote according to your prayerful and biblical convictions while encouraging others to do the same.