Christianity and Politics

By Onyeche Igwe

Part One: Christians and Politics

MEMORY VERSE: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.” – Proverbs 29:2 (KJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: Nehemiah 5:14-19

Generally, politics can be described as the methodology and activities associated with running a government, an organisation or a movement. Politics is all about influence. It is this influence that further births positive or negative changes in the lives of the people. The involvement of Christians in politics is neither secular; nor beyond the ideologies of Christianity because it is the desire of God that believers take charge and have influence here on earth (Gen.1:28; Matt. 5:13-16).

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT POLITICS
Some Christians believe that, since our kingdom is not of this world, we do not have to be involved in any political activity in the world we presently live in (Jn.17:14). This is not the whole truth but a misconception aimed at robbing us of our godly heritage of dominion (Ps.8:6; 1Pet.2:9; Rev.5:10). Here are some reasons for the misconception or wrong notions about the involvement of Christians in politics;

1. Politics is a dirty game and a worldly affair.
2. Political involvements will take one to hell.
3. All politicians are liars, corrupt and promiscuous.
4. It is an opportunity to embezzle money or amass wealth unlawfully.
5. Most politicians are fetish or occultic.

WHY SHOULD CHRISTIANS BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS?
In order to disabuse our minds as Christians about our active involvement in politics, we need to consider the following reasons objectively:

1. It is the desire of God that believers take charge and have influence here on earth (Deut.28:13). We are to take the lead and allow kingdom values to shape our society (Matt.5:13-16).
2. The leaders we elect or fail to elect, have a great influence on our freedom, well-being and the fulfilment of our God-given mandate. They can choose to protect our rights to worship and spread the gospel, or prevent us from exercising such rights (Est.4:14; Dan.6:7).
3. Politics like other sectors of national developments (health, finance, etc.), should be explored to “teach all nations” in order to demonstrate the exemplary life and flavour of godliness (Dan.6:1-3; Matt.28:19-20).
4. The involvement of godly Christians in politics will reduce corruption, disorderliness, mischief and other socio-economic vices in the society (2 Chron.14:1-6; Prov.29:2).
5. To effect positive and lasting changes that will benefit society (Gen.41:33-40; Prov.14:34).

Part Two: Political Engagement

MEMORY VERSE: “The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.” – 2 Samuel 23:3 (KJV)

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Samuel 23:1-4 (KJV)

GET INVOLVED IN POLITICS
Christians should note that it is their Civic right and responsibility under the law (Titus 3:1, 1Peter 2:13-14) to vote and be voted for (Deuteronomy 1:13). Therefor every eligible Christian should register with the relevant electoral body in order to participate during elections. In addition, it is important for Christians to be ‘card-carrying’ members of any political party of preference. By so doing, Christians can contest and be voted into elective positions or influence the choice of their representatives for elective positions (Exodus 18:21).

To join a political party, you need to get information. Visit the website of the parties available in your country or the respective party secretariat within your locality. Go through their detailed profiles to know the party’s ideology and manifesto. Fill out a party registration form and provide supporting documents/payments as may be required. A membership card will be issued to you as confirmation. Attend party meetings regularly and actively in order to be a voice to be reckoned with.

Christians aspiring for elective leadership positions should be sure to have a leading, burden or passion to serve the people and solve problems 1Samuel 17:29; 34-37; Nehemiah 2:1-5). In order to succeed in politics, Christians should read books and attend seminars/conference on leadership/politics (Proverbs 16:16). It is also important to be mentored by a seasoned Christian political leader (Proverbs 1:5).

Christians may also prayerfully join or support and advocacy group (Esther 4:8,13-14) or form a political party with people of like-minds (1Samuel 22:2; Daniel 2:49).

THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN POLITICS
Christians, who are into politics, or aspiring to hold political post, should be prayerful and watch out for pitfall to avoid soiling their garments (1Corinthians 15:33). They should therefore:

1. Desist from any thoughts or act of wickedness. Politics is not a do-or-die affair (Proverbs 16:12).
2. Avoid prayerlessness (James 5:16b-18; Psalm 91:15, Daniel 6:10). our adversary is not resting, be sober and vigilant (1Peter 5:8).
3. Shun all foolishness: get the necessary qualifications or experience (James 15:1; 1Samuel 17:34-37) and act wisely (Matthew 10:16).
4. Never dabble into politics without a godly burden or passion (Nehemiah 2:1-5).
5. Avoid compromising: stand By Your godly virtues and principles (1 Corinthians 10:31).
6. Distinguish yourself and do not be hypocritical (1Corinthians 6:17; Romans 12:2).
7. Do not be lured into cultism or bad caucus in the name of ‘belonging’, seeking relevance or power to outwit others (1Corinthians 15:33).
8. Beware of the negative influence of political godfathers (Proverbs 12:5; 25:26).
9. Be resolute in the face of persecution and propaganda. (Nehemiah 4:3,6; Nehemiah 6:5-7; Daniel 6:11-14).
10. Avoid abuse of power do not be tyrannical (2 Chronicles 26:16-18).

Join a political party today and be a Christian of influence.