We have been exploring the link between Christians and Politics. So far, we have quoted from various secular sources, including media sources, political pundits, and social researchers. We have also looked at the disastrous history of blended church-state models. All of this is important and helps frame our discussion about the present turmoil we face. Now, we turn to the King of Kings for His view of Christians and government. He is our Lord and Teacher (John 13:14). Therefore, we listen, learn, and apply his teachings.
Given the politicized condition of some churches and church members, a non-Christian might be surprised at how few times Jesus or his apostles spoke of government. When they did, it was often in an indirect way. For example, Jesus told his followers to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:13, 14). Surely, our salting would include interactions with the state and, when possible, politicians
There are a few direct statements made about government.
“render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Luke 20:25)
“Render” suggests the idea of an obligation that is repaid. Followers of Christ have obligations to both the state (Caeser) and to God. There is a distinction between the two. We know from the apostle’s clash with the Sanhedrin that one obligation exceeds the other; namely, our commitment to God is superior. Jesus said, “Seek first” the kingdom (Matthew 6:33), while his apostles, Peter and John, said, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).
If Jesus were physically here today, he would not engage in the trash talk that marks the public voice of many religious leaders.
On point with the present deterioration of public speech and discourse is Paul’s statement, taken from Exodus 22:28, that we “shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people” (Acts 23:5). The apostle himself had just rebuked the High Priest. When he realized what he had done, he quickly corrected himself.[1]That is Christian guidance not often heard today. It is also complementary to Paul’s exhortation to pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1, 2). Perhaps we have forgotten?
When arrested, our Lord did not revile his captors, nor Herod, nor Pilate. Isaiah foretold his peaceful example that he would not open his mouth when beaten (Isaiah 53:7).
If Jesus were physically here today, he would not engage in the trash talk that marks the public voice of many religious leaders.
The Bible teaches me to imitate Jesus (1 Corinthians 11:1; Ephesians 5:1, 2; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 1 Peter 2:21, etc.). So how, then, should we conduct ourselves today?
[1] Jesus once called Herod a “fox,” a derogatory term for someone who is sneaky or sly. Jesus spoke from his divinity in truth, not in rage, anger, or vengeance. See Luke 13:32