Some men in the past held that Christians could not be part of the government or even have a say in its form or function. This view still lingers, perhaps out of habit more than conviction. Still, it is an issue we must address.

God ordained governments. He raises them up and puts them down (Dan. 4:25). They exist by His will to serve His will. There are times when God used a wicked nation to destroy a more wicked one; Assyria annihilated Israel and Babylon devastated Judah.

We are commanded to submit to the powers that be (Rom. 13:1-7). Though we do not like paying taxes, we must do it because God commands it. If we rebel against the government, we rebel against God. But, does this mean if we seek to change it or say something against it, we are committing sin?

Jesus spoke against Herod when He called him a fox (Lk. 13:32). He was not referring to Herod as a cute, fuzzy woodland creature. Rather, Jesus was saying he was sly, sneaky, and destructive. So we can speak out against corruption and sin, even protest it in a peaceful way.

Thankfully, we live in a nation where we have a voice in the government. In fact, when we consider the obligation of Christians to influence the world around them, we might see voicing our convictions as a duty (Matt. 5:14-16). What biblical principle is violated by voting?

We are told to pray for our rulers (1 Tim. 2:1-4). Does this mean we only pray and leave all the rest up to God? Is that what we are to do with our daily bread (Matt. 6:11)? No. We are to work for a living (Eph. 4:28; 1 Thes. 4:11). Thus, we see that action is authorized with reference to influencing our rulers to do right. If not, why not?

Now the rub.

Can a Christian vote for just any politician? Can we willfully, knowingly support someone who is known to hold ungodly beliefs?

No politician is perfect because they are all human. We understand that. Perhaps all of them in one form or another, in one way or another, support that which is contrary to doctrines and morals of the New Testament. However, is there a point at which we must say, “I cannot vote for this person even if there is no other choice”?

To the point…can we cast a vote for someone who supports abortion and legalized homosexual unions? Again, we love to view all politicians through a jaundiced eye—they are all bad. Yet, is there any room for distinguishing between the misguided man with faults and the grossly immoral, anti-God candidate?

Let us hear from you on this matter. Go to the discussion forum to post your comments.