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27 COMMENTS
It’s about right and wrong. Jesus offended a ton of people by bringing them the message that they are wrong and need to change. It’s not all about telling people what they want to hear and what is popular to make them feel better about their journey towards hell.
Exercising your right to speak is just as important, if not more so, than exercising your right to vote. With respect, I think there are a couple of problems with your reasoning.
First, what do you do when you lose the vote? Your position only works in the current political environment in America. Our founders were, by and large, Christians. They literally fought for the vote. Would you tell them not to sacrifice their ability to preach the gospel?
Second, why assume you’re actually protecting your ability to preach the gospel. It seems far more likely that political opposition goes hand-in-hand with religious opposition. It’s been my experience that political opponents use your sentimental view as a way of silencing opposition. It’s our opponents who claim that we ought to be silent about politics. It’s a ploy, a tactic, of the secular movement. And frankly, it’s that attitude that has gotten us to where we are today.
Third, worldviews are all encompassing. You cannot separate the moral and the political. Politic simply mean public. So if you are speaking publicly at all, you’re engaged in politics. The idea that religion and politics can be separated is one of the greatest tactical victories won by secularists—or should I say the religion of atheism and the left. It’s simply a lie. Very often Christian apologetics is forced to deal with politics. That is precisely why churches are embracing unbiblical views of marriage, sex, race, etc. They simply don’t have the ability to make a defense because they were told Christians should not be involved in politics.
In contrast, I think we have a responsibility to exercise our rights. Political Christians are often caricatured as complaining about losing our rights, as if we elevate our personal freedom above the gospel. That’s not how we feel at all. We understand that our rights were given to us by God and that we have a responsibility as self-governed people to maintain those rights and freedoms for further generations. Why? For a couple of reasons. First, we ought to always do the right thing and promote the welfare of our neighbors, which ought to be reason enough. Second, the gospel thrives in an environment of political freedom. Go to China and tell me politics isn’t important to the furtherance of the gospel.
We can walk and chew gum. We can preach the gospel and speak on political issues. We have the right to do so because we have the responsibility. Think about it. What is the difference between abdicating your political responsibilities and losing your political rights. Both leave you with nothing to say.
Like the wheat and chaff this world and the church are growing together. Our great nation didn't happen without Christ's power. We used to be much more of a Christian nation. Our nation was greatly blessed and we started forgetting about God. The ultimate way for Satan to kill, rob and destroy a nation is from the government down. This is why it is vastly important for people to be involved in politics in a Christian way. I am not sure why voting and speaking out against the demonic entity of the Democrat Platform is anything but Godly. God called the Pharisees the children of Satan.
In fact, when we speak of the way of Salvation thru Jesus, we must also say that there is a Hell. Rejecting Christ is that path. That will stir up hatred, but we must be ready to even die for our Faith. So, in my opinion we must also stand up politically to these anti-Christ politicians. Tell them about Jesus yes- but we can't be Spiritual and ignore those against Jesus in politics.
Dr Myles Monroe (RIP) wrote in his book "Rediscovering The Kingdom" There is a vast difference between a democracy and a kingdom. Elected officals are VOTED in. Jesus is a king and you dont vote him in or out of office. In a democracy, it is majority vote. In a kingdom there is no majority vote. It is simply the word of the king and his word is final. America is a divided nation. Either you are democrat or Republican (sorry but independants dont get voted into office) and its been divided since the civil war! Matthew 12:25 says a nation divided against itself will not stand. If you look at the moral , economic , and racial divide in this country, this scripture is very apparent. So i agree with this gentleman. We have placed our politics above Jesus! Many will be shocked when he returns and they think their political position is going to somehow appease the father! Do you love your enemies? Is your heart a forgiving heart. Do you love all men of all races? Jesus said love your neighbor as you love yourself! Are you critical and speak harsh words about people who dont believe as you do or do you pray for them? Open your eyes! Satan is now using politics to divide people like never before.
If those involved are in line with God's word. Not rationalizing that one with atrocious demonic behavior will stand up for God's ways. Character is paramount.
Yes but back then the people didnt have a vote on laws and we do so we do need to know whos running our state and have them to keep Gods values. I live in Alabama and im so glad Katie stands her ground about boys play in girl sports and bathrooms. Since we have to vote vote for Gods value so we want get his wrath like those in the bible did.
It’s important to speak for the welfare of your nation. I think Christian’s should be DIRECTLY involved in politics. We shouldn’t watch the news if we aren’t going to do anything about it. But we should stand up for the oppressed.
Christians as the Romans Saw Them – Robert L Wilken 1936
This book is about how Romans saw Christians within the first 300 years of Christ. It cites numerous known Roman writers of that time.
Time & time again Romans discussed in great detail, & confusion, as to why & how Christians in no way would serve govts. They did not hold office, wave their flags, attend their ceremonies, seek positions, vote, hold govt jobs, run for office, assume any responsibilities at all for the duties of the city under govt, or go into any services like militaries. They didn't even recognize Roman law as the laws they should follow. They were known for their anti govt sedition.
They were seen as "sectarian", because govt IS a public religion & Christians were the first to "privatize" religion.
Christians subverted govt life & undermined the very foundations in which societies operated, by human false gods.
Christians set up a single divine ruler which was now seen as a rival & threat to a human emperor, who could now fall, simply because people walked away from serving the religion of mortal rule. Christ could reign if people left the mortal rules of political religion & did not see the men in govt as their rule makers.
Shame on anyone calling themselves Christian who misses this obvious story all through the Bible.
No where will you find Christ teaching people to get involved with the Empire. Matthew was called out of tax collecting. The centurion stated twice he was not worthy of Christ's help because he was a man of govt .
Hi there, YouTube folks. I'm a male christian from Russia and I'm asking you a question: What do you think, should I obey the government's order to go to Ukraine, if they announce full mobilization next year? Personally, I consider this special military operation in Ukraine as an act of expansionism, which I can't accept as a "self-defense" type of thing; so I've decided, if the order would happened to obey as long as they allow me to protect our motherland borders as the borders were present in 2013. I think it'd be way better to put our resources in the way of life; saving people, saving animals; to build, not destroy.
As a christian I am not comma ded to vote . God is sovereign over rulers and can appoint or remove leadership . Jesus said to Pilate that the only authority he had was given to him by God
I don't know for certain what I think about politics. I did a mission type project for my church when I was younger and it was a Christian Church so I guess I am a Christian by birth, rearing and by professing the Gospel at one point in my life. I qualify as an Evangelical or Born Again Christian who was raised on the King James Version of the Holy Bible. Adults encouraged me to take an interest in Politics when I was young but I did not have much to go on since the same adults did not help me to get involved. There was a teacher who said he had a job for me and so I took his suggestion. Running for office was my objective… or at least this was an exploratory effort to see if I had a chance to run for public office. I figured I needed to collect information and experience to get involved. To be honest this became a sort of "calling from Christ or God to me". I believed this was what God wanted me to do. Only a few Great men are called to preach. Christ holding up the coin with Caesar's Head on it is one of many symbols which make me believe that perhaps Jesus Christ had profound interest in the Politics of his day. Some of his message is political. Some of his actions and some claims in the Bible would appear to be political. Christ may have wanted to be a leader of Rome though this is something I cannot prove. I believe the men who are elected to high public office in America know much more than most Americans know. My research into politics did not prove one way or another as to whether I should run for public office. and quite honestly I accept this. It is as important to make an effort to explore God's will for my life as it is to live my life honorably and positively. I have an education and developing me skills is as good a way to serve both God and Country as well as provide for myself and my family. To be honest, I work every day to make myself better and improve my knowledge and ability to become the best individual I can be. Doing my best is the best I can do. If Christ was interested in Politics he fell short when he was crucified by his own people. But truly as you point out Christians can vote. Let's hope they vote wisely.
Wait a minute. Aren't we manipulated in our votes? Thanks to non-mainstream media it is now clearer than ever that that we are manipulated by governments and their propaganda outlets, main media. We are also bought. Caesar's should be Caesar's but surely only if that's whose it really is. The injustices in Israel/Gaza are so outrageous that a prayer in the comfort and safety of your sanctuary seems enabling, sorry to say that.
Totally agree with McArthur. I know so many Christians that press politics but don’t even know what the Bible says about salvation. Or much about God’s word.
So sit back and enjoy the persecution. If we Christians leave politics saltless and lightless, there will be no one left to stand up for us. And we see this in many countries around the world. Especially in the Islamic ones. Why don't you understand that? Please look at Germany and see what will happen when only godless people rule. We used to have the Christian Democrats (CDU party), and we were doing well there. But now the godless parties are all joining forces and are now even trying to destroy our democracy by trying to ban the AFD party, which is the closest thing to Christianity at this time. This left-wing politicians act like Nazis. They do all this under the guise of protecting democracy, spread it through the mass media and the sleeping sheep crowd believes them. Do you really think that it is enough to "give up your vote" and bury it in an urn? Everything that is not far left today, like these ruling parties, are Nazis. "Recognizable by their skirts and pigtails, the media says". This is how hatred is now being fomented and things are psychologically bracketed, to bring us Christians into persecution.
I know our first mission is to spread the gospel. And i do it as often as I can. The Gospel today has reached almost the entire world, especially through the digital world, Internet mission, radio and others… Almost everyone has heard of Christ. Christmas is allowed to be celebrated in almost every country in the world. But most people simply decide against him. That's why there are still so many unbelieving people. They like evil more than light… But unbelieving people who rule and occupy high positions will pass more ungodly laws against Christian views and cause more and more persecution. Your response now is to put your hands in your lap and simply just pray? Seriously? I mean, of course we should pray, but shouldnt' we rise our voice instead of bury them and hope that anyone of this godless politicians will "surely do it well"?
Jesus Christ did not allow himself to be made king back then, because it was not his job at the time. He came at his first coming to die for all mankind. But we don't have to do that, because it is finished. Passages like these do not tell us, that Christians should not go into politics. Minister for example means servant of the people. If we as Christians do not take responsibility for the area in which we live, who will? Then these positions will continue to be filled with the godless rulers that the entire world is now fed up with. Because they only cause more suffering and misery and chaos. This is not how we will change the world for the better. Then we can't complain if we all end up in jail at some point. But all the people who told us: "We shouldn't go into politics" will then be partly to blame for this situation. Is this understandable?
This was a good message. I still believe leaders of the church need to be a little bit more specific. I still speak with people who are Christians but they do not believe they should be getting involved with many things. I spoke with a friend last night who said she was against abortion but believed it should not be illegal because we should not force people to do what is right and that we should give them the chance to make the right choice on their own. There's a huge problem with that because when they do not choose to do what is right, a baby is killed. To me that he's the equivalent of making murder legal in the hopes that people will choose not to commit murder.
I think many Christians are just scared to be persecuted or truly think that we should not be exercising our power to vote. I have a cousin who thinks he should not support anything based on his beliefs as a Christian because he is forcing religion on other people. He does not consider that they are pushing their morals on to him.
I do not believe leaders of the church should tell us specifically who to vote for, but they should be telling us that we need to do what we need to do in order to stop evil from spreading. Yes, we can try to persuade others by reaching out to try and change their heart. But we should also use our voting power to actually stop the evil actions people do.
Could the 70’s church have turned out in force (ie in silent protest) to have any effect in reversing Roe vs Wade?? Or were we hoodwinked by the false promise of “safe available and rare??”
The overarching question here is "What do you mean by Involved?". Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 2:4 "No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier." Voting? That our duty as a citizen of this nation, of this world. What then is our duty to Jesus, and does our duty to Jesus supersede and abrogate our civic duty or can we do both? Is voting a violation of any one of God's Laws? Is it? Remember all that is needed for evil to succeed is for good men to do nothing, and if you, being good, do nothing is your not doing good a sin of omission? Wisdom from the book of Esther 4:13-14 – "And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: “Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king’s palace any more than all the other Jews. For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
Should Christians be involved in politics since we already have our POLITICS (Citizenship Politneuma) in Heaven?
Perhaps let the EXAMPLE of our Lord and the EARLY Christians be our GUIDE in this matter.
What does SCRIPTURE and HISTORY tell us about them?
John 6:15 (KJV) When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.
Juan 6:15 (TLAB) Nang mapaghalata nga ni Jesus na sila'y magsisilapit at siya'y agawin, upang siya'y gawing hari, ay muling nagbalik sa bundok na nagiisa.
John 18:36 (WEB) Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not of this world. If my Kingdom were of this world, then my servants would fight, that I wouldn’t be delivered to the Jews. But now my Kingdom is not from here.”
Juan 18:36 (TLAB) Sumagot si Jesus, Ang kaharian ko ay hindi sa sanglibutang ito: kung ang kaharian ko ay sa sanglibutang ito, ang aking mga alipin nga ay makikipagbaka, upang ako'y huwag maibigay sa mga Judio: nguni't ngayo'y ang aking kaharian ay hindi rito.
2 Timothy 2:4-5 (WEB) No soldier on duty entangles himself in the affairs of life, that he may please him who enrolled him as a soldier. Also, if anyone competes in athletics, he isn’t crowned unless he has competed by the rules.
2 Timoteo 2:4-5 (TLAB) Sinomang kawal na nasa pagkakawal ay hindi nahalubilo sa mga bagay ng buhay na ito; upang siya'y kalugdan niyaong nagtala sa pagkakawal. At kung ang sinoman ay makikipaglaban naman sa mga laro, ay hindi pinuputungan maliban na kung makipaglabang matuwid.
—🕎—
Over the past year, I’ve written some things that have gotten me into trouble with a lot of religious people. One one level, I feel sorry that I have to offend so many people, especially people that I love and respect. On another level, I feel a sense of righteous indignation (at least I hope it’s righteous indignation and not something else) that what passes for Christianity today in the Western world is so far from what Jesus, the Apostles, and the early Church had in mind.
The quotes below cover the period of the first two centuries of Christian history. As far as I know, no respected historian disputes what you are about to read. As you read these quotes, I’d like for you to ask yourself a question. Which is more likely? That the early Church closest in time to the lives of Jesus and the Apostles, started out in error but then gradually came to the truth around the time of Constantine–or the other way around?
The Early Church and the World, Professor C. J. Cadoux writes: “Up to the reign of Marcus Aurelius at least [161-180 C.E.], no Christian would become a soldier after his baptism.”
“Early Christianity was little understood and was regarded with little favor by those who ruled the pagan world. . . . Christians refused to share certain duties of Roman citizens. . . . They would not hold political office.” (On the Road to Civilization A World History, A. K. Heckel and J. G. Sigman, 1937, pp. 237-8)
The Encyclopedia of Religion states: “The early church fathers, including Tertullian and Origen, affirmed that Christians were constrained from taking human life, a principle that prevented them from participating in the Roman army.”
In his book, E.w. Barnes’ careful review of all the information available goes to show that, until the time of Marcus Aurelius [Roman emperor from 161 to 180 C.E.], no Christian became a soldier; and no soldier, after becoming a Christian, remained in military service.The Rise of Christianity (London, 1947), E. W. Barnes, p. 333.
The book ‘The Early Christian Attitude to War’ says: “Inasmuch as they [Jesus teachings] ruled out as illicit all use of violence and injury against others, clearly implied [was] the illegitimacy of participation in war . . . The early Christians took Jesus at his word, and understood his inculcation of gentleness and non-resistance in their literal sense. They closely identified their religion with peace; they strongly condemned war for the bloodshed which it involved.”
“They refused to take any active part in the civil administration or the military defence of the empire. . . . it was impossible that the Christians, without renouncing a more sacred duty, could assume the character of soldiers, of magistrates, or of princes.” History of Christianity (New York, 1891), Edward Gibbon, pp. 162, 163.
“The behavior of the [early] Christians was very different from that of the Romans. . . . Since Christ had preached peace, they refused to become soldiers,” Our World Through the Ages.
And ‘The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire,’ by Edward Gibbon, states: “[Early Christians] refused to take any active part in the civil administration or the military defense of the empire. . . . It was impossible that the Christians, without renouncing a more sacred duty, could assume the character of soldiers.”
The Catholic Herald of London stated: “The first Christians . . . took Jesus at His word and refused to be conscripted into the Roman army even if the penalty was death. Would the whole of history have been different if the Church had stuck to its original stand? . . . If the churches of today could come out with a joint condemnation of war . . . , which would mean that every member would be bound in conscience to be, like the Christians, a conscientious objector, peace might indeed be assured. But we know that this will never happen.”
“Zealous Christians did not serve in the armed forces or accept political offices.”– World History, The Story of Mans Achievements (River Forest, Ill; 1962) Habberton, Roth and Spears, p. 117.
“While among Romans it was considered the highest honor to possess the privileges of Roman citizenship, the Christians announced that they were citizens of heaven. They shrank from public office and military service.” Persecution of the Christians in Gaul, A.D. 177 by F.F.G. Guizot, former prime minister of France, Vol. III of The Great Events by Famous Historians (New York; 1905), Rossiter Johnson, ed, p. 246.
“The Christians were strangers and pilgrims in the world around them; their citizenship was in heaven; the kingdom to which they looked was not of this world. The consequent want of interest in public affairs came thus from the outset to be a noticeable feature in Christianity. Christianity and the Roman Government.” (London; 1925), E. G. Hardy, Principal of Jesus College, Oxford, p. 39.
“The emperors disliked Christianity because it seemed unpatriotic and un-Roman.” The Course of Civilization, Volume One, (New York; 1961), p. 144.
Beautifully said and I agree totally. Politics is tied only to earthly (temporal) kingdoms. We are ambassadors for Christ. Our kingdom and citizenship are in heaven. Our main calling is to be a light to the world and salt of the earth which means to share the Gospel and to show the love of God – help the hungry, thirsty, naked, sick and imprisoned. This is our first and foremost mission. As good citizens of our nation we should vote accordingly to biblical truths but our political beliefs and actions should not hinder or interfere with our main mission of sharing the Gospel and being a witness for Christ.
The bible does say who you should vote for. You should vote for someone who will give you a "tranquil and quiet life full of godliness and dignity". (1Tim 2:1-2) Who can that be? It is someone who is the most Christ-like. Why? Because integrity and character matters (by their fruits you shall know them) and policies don't matter as much because many candidates once elected don't follow their party, platform, and promised policies. Integrity and character are time-tested indicators of how leaders will successfully react to and handle future crises. If voting means a choice between small Satan or big Satan then don't vote at all. We are not required to make a vote that would sear our conscience.
At the end of the day God will not ask you whether you voted for a Democrat or Republican. Instead He will ask you whether you knew His Son, did you share the Gospel, and did you show the love of God – help the hungry, thirsty, naked, sick and imprisoned. Did you love Me? Did you love your neighbor? Did you love your enemies?
It’s about right and wrong. Jesus offended a ton of people by bringing them the message that they are wrong and need to change. It’s not all about telling people what they want to hear and what is popular to make them feel better about their journey towards hell.
Exercising your right to speak is just as important, if not more so, than exercising your right to vote. With respect, I think there are a couple of problems with your reasoning.
First, what do you do when you lose the vote? Your position only works in the current political environment in America. Our founders were, by and large, Christians. They literally fought for the vote. Would you tell them not to sacrifice their ability to preach the gospel?
Second, why assume you’re actually protecting your ability to preach the gospel. It seems far more likely that political opposition goes hand-in-hand with religious opposition. It’s been my experience that political opponents use your sentimental view as a way of silencing opposition. It’s our opponents who claim that we ought to be silent about politics. It’s a ploy, a tactic, of the secular movement. And frankly, it’s that attitude that has gotten us to where we are today.
Third, worldviews are all encompassing. You cannot separate the moral and the political. Politic simply mean public. So if you are speaking publicly at all, you’re engaged in politics. The idea that religion and politics can be separated is one of the greatest tactical victories won by secularists—or should I say the religion of atheism and the left. It’s simply a lie. Very often Christian apologetics is forced to deal with politics. That is precisely why churches are embracing unbiblical views of marriage, sex, race, etc. They simply don’t have the ability to make a defense because they were told Christians should not be involved in politics.
In contrast, I think we have a responsibility to exercise our rights. Political Christians are often caricatured as complaining about losing our rights, as if we elevate our personal freedom above the gospel. That’s not how we feel at all. We understand that our rights were given to us by God and that we have a responsibility as self-governed people to maintain those rights and freedoms for further generations. Why? For a couple of reasons. First, we ought to always do the right thing and promote the welfare of our neighbors, which ought to be reason enough. Second, the gospel thrives in an environment of political freedom. Go to China and tell me politics isn’t important to the furtherance of the gospel.
We can walk and chew gum. We can preach the gospel and speak on political issues. We have the right to do so because we have the responsibility. Think about it. What is the difference between abdicating your political responsibilities and losing your political rights. Both leave you with nothing to say.
Like the wheat and chaff this world and the church are growing together. Our great nation didn't happen without Christ's power. We used to be much more of a Christian nation. Our nation was greatly blessed and we started forgetting about God. The ultimate way for Satan to kill, rob and destroy a nation is from the government down. This is why it is vastly important for people to be involved in politics in a Christian way. I am not sure why voting and speaking out against the demonic entity of the Democrat Platform is anything but Godly. God called the Pharisees the children of Satan.
In fact, when we speak of the way of Salvation thru Jesus, we must also say that there is a Hell. Rejecting Christ is that path. That will stir up hatred, but we must be ready to even die for our Faith. So, in my opinion we must also stand up politically to these anti-Christ politicians. Tell them about Jesus yes- but we can't be Spiritual and ignore those against Jesus in politics.
Dr Myles Monroe (RIP) wrote in his book "Rediscovering The Kingdom" There is a vast difference between a democracy and a kingdom. Elected officals are VOTED in. Jesus is a king and you dont vote him in or out of office. In a democracy, it is majority vote. In a kingdom there is no majority vote. It is simply the word of the king and his word is final. America is a divided nation. Either you are democrat or Republican (sorry but independants dont get voted into office) and its been divided since the civil war! Matthew 12:25 says a nation divided against itself will not stand. If you look at the moral , economic , and racial divide in this country, this scripture is very apparent. So i agree with this gentleman. We have placed our politics above Jesus! Many will be shocked when he returns and they think their political position is going to somehow appease the father! Do you love your enemies? Is your heart a forgiving heart. Do you love all men of all races? Jesus said love your neighbor as you love yourself! Are you critical and speak harsh words about people who dont believe as you do or do you pray for them? Open your eyes! Satan is now using politics to divide people like never before.
Amen
Romans 13
If those involved are in line with God's word. Not rationalizing that one with atrocious demonic behavior will stand up for God's ways. Character is paramount.
Yes but back then the people didnt have a vote on laws and we do so we do need to know whos running our state and have them to keep Gods values. I live in Alabama and im so glad Katie stands her ground about boys play in girl sports and bathrooms. Since we have to vote vote for Gods value so we want get his wrath like those in the bible did.
I agree
It’s important to speak for the welfare of your nation. I think Christian’s should be DIRECTLY involved in politics. We shouldn’t watch the news if we aren’t going to do anything about it. But we should stand up for the oppressed.
Christians as the Romans Saw Them – Robert L Wilken
1936
This book is about how Romans saw Christians within the first 300 years of Christ. It cites numerous known Roman writers of that time.
Time & time again Romans discussed in great detail, & confusion, as to why & how Christians in no way would serve govts. They did not hold office, wave their flags, attend their ceremonies, seek positions, vote, hold govt jobs, run for office, assume any responsibilities at all for the duties of the city under govt, or go into any services like militaries. They didn't even recognize Roman law as the laws they should follow. They were known for their anti govt sedition.
They were seen as "sectarian", because govt IS a public religion & Christians were the first to "privatize" religion.
Christians subverted govt life & undermined the very foundations in which societies operated, by human false gods.
Christians set up a single divine ruler which was now seen as a rival & threat to a human emperor, who could now fall, simply because people walked away from serving the religion of mortal rule. Christ could reign if people left the mortal rules of political religion & did not see the men in govt as their rule makers.
Shame on anyone calling themselves Christian who misses this obvious story all through the Bible.
No where will you find Christ teaching people to get involved with the Empire. Matthew was called out of tax collecting. The centurion stated twice he was not worthy of Christ's help because he was a man of govt .
Countless scripture points to this message.
If there is a proven righteous canidat i will vote if not it will be a vote for corruption
David anointed as king without voting
Hi there, YouTube folks. I'm a male christian from Russia and I'm asking you a question: What do you think, should I obey the government's order to go to Ukraine, if they announce full mobilization next year? Personally, I consider this special military operation in Ukraine as an act of expansionism, which I can't accept as a "self-defense" type of thing; so I've decided, if the order would happened to obey as long as they allow me to protect our motherland borders as the borders were present in 2013. I think it'd be way better to put our resources in the way of life; saving people, saving animals; to build, not destroy.
As a christian I am not comma ded to vote . God is sovereign over rulers and can appoint or remove leadership .
Jesus said to
Pilate that the only authority he had was given to him by
God
I don't know for certain what I think about politics. I did a mission type project for my church when I was younger and it was a Christian Church so I guess I am a Christian by birth, rearing and by professing the Gospel at one point in my life. I qualify as an Evangelical or Born Again Christian who was raised on the King James Version of the Holy Bible. Adults encouraged me to take an interest in Politics when I was young but I did not have much to go on since the same adults did not help me to get involved. There was a teacher who said he had a job for me and so I took his suggestion. Running for office was my objective… or at least this was an exploratory effort to see if I had a chance to run for public office. I figured I needed to collect information and experience to get involved. To be honest this became a sort of "calling from Christ or God to me". I believed this was what God wanted me to do. Only a few Great men are called to preach. Christ holding up the coin with Caesar's Head on it is one of many symbols which make me believe that perhaps Jesus Christ had profound interest in the Politics of his day. Some of his message is political. Some of his actions and some claims in the Bible would appear to be political. Christ may have wanted to be a leader of Rome though this is something I cannot prove. I believe the men who are elected to high public office in America know much more than most Americans know. My research into politics did not prove one way or another as to whether I should run for public office. and quite honestly I accept this. It is as important to make an effort to explore God's will for my life as it is to live my life honorably and positively. I have an education and developing me skills is as good a way to serve both God and Country as well as provide for myself and my family. To be honest, I work every day to make myself better and improve my knowledge and ability to become the best individual I can be. Doing my best is the best I can do. If Christ was interested in Politics he fell short when he was crucified by his own people. But truly as you point out Christians can vote. Let's hope they vote wisely.
Wait a minute. Aren't we manipulated in our votes? Thanks to non-mainstream media it is now clearer than ever that that we are manipulated by governments and their propaganda outlets, main media. We are also bought. Caesar's should be Caesar's but surely only if that's whose it really is. The injustices in Israel/Gaza are so outrageous that a prayer in the comfort and safety of your sanctuary seems enabling, sorry to say that.
Totally agree with McArthur. I know so many Christians that press politics but don’t even know what the Bible says about salvation. Or much about God’s word.
So sit back and enjoy the persecution. If we Christians leave politics saltless and lightless, there will be no one left to stand up for us. And we see this in many countries around the world. Especially in the Islamic ones. Why don't you understand that? Please look at Germany and see what will happen when only godless people rule. We used to have the Christian Democrats (CDU party), and we were doing well there. But now the godless parties are all joining forces and are now even trying to destroy our democracy by trying to ban the AFD party, which is the closest thing to Christianity at this time. This left-wing politicians act like Nazis. They do all this under the guise of protecting democracy, spread it through the mass media and the sleeping sheep crowd believes them. Do you really think that it is enough to "give up your vote" and bury it in an urn? Everything that is not far left today, like these ruling parties, are Nazis. "Recognizable by their skirts and pigtails, the media says". This is how hatred is now being fomented and things are psychologically bracketed, to bring us Christians into persecution.
I know our first mission is to spread the gospel. And i do it as often as I can. The Gospel today has reached almost the entire world, especially through the digital world, Internet mission, radio and others… Almost everyone has heard of Christ. Christmas is allowed to be celebrated in almost every country in the world. But most people simply decide against him. That's why there are still so many unbelieving people. They like evil more than light… But unbelieving people who rule and occupy high positions will pass more ungodly laws against Christian views and cause more and more persecution. Your response now is to put your hands in your lap and simply just pray? Seriously? I mean, of course we should pray, but shouldnt' we rise our voice instead of bury them and hope that anyone of this godless politicians will "surely do it well"?
Jesus Christ did not allow himself to be made king back then, because it was not his job at the time. He came at his first coming to die for all mankind. But we don't have to do that, because it is finished. Passages like these do not tell us, that Christians should not go into politics. Minister for example means servant of the people. If we as Christians do not take responsibility for the area in which we live, who will? Then these positions will continue to be filled with the godless rulers that the entire world is now fed up with. Because they only cause more suffering and misery and chaos. This is not how we will change the world for the better. Then we can't complain if we all end up in jail at some point. But all the people who told us: "We shouldn't go into politics" will then be partly to blame for this situation. Is this understandable?
Jehovah's Witnesses is YHWH's neutral religion, not born again religion who support earthly governments and seated on the beast.
This was a good message. I still believe leaders of the church need to be a little bit more specific. I still speak with people who are Christians but they do not believe they should be getting involved with many things. I spoke with a friend last night who said she was against abortion but believed it should not be illegal because we should not force people to do what is right and that we should give them the chance to make the right choice on their own. There's a huge problem with that because when they do not choose to do what is right, a baby is killed. To me that he's the equivalent of making murder legal in the hopes that people will choose not to commit murder.
I think many Christians are just scared to be persecuted or truly think that we should not be exercising our power to vote. I have a cousin who thinks he should not support anything based on his beliefs as a Christian because he is forcing religion on other people. He does not consider that they are pushing their morals on to him.
I do not believe leaders of the church should tell us specifically who to vote for, but they should be telling us that we need to do what we need to do in order to stop evil from spreading. Yes, we can try to persuade others by reaching out to try and change their heart. But we should also use our voting power to actually stop the evil actions people do.
Could the 70’s church have turned out in force (ie in silent protest) to have any effect in reversing Roe vs Wade?? Or were we hoodwinked by the false promise of “safe available and rare??”
If believers should vote, then they should also be in politics.
If you are not involved, Christian or not, you are a fool and one of the problems causing the break down of our society.
The overarching question here is "What do you mean by Involved?". Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 2:4 "No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier."
Voting? That our duty as a citizen of this nation, of this world. What then is our duty to Jesus, and does our duty to Jesus supersede and abrogate our civic duty or can we do both? Is voting a violation of any one of God's Laws? Is it? Remember all that is needed for evil to succeed is for good men to do nothing, and if you, being good, do nothing is your not doing good a sin of omission?
Wisdom from the book of Esther 4:13-14 – "And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: “Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king’s palace any more than all the other Jews. For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
Should Christians be involved in politics since we already have our POLITICS (Citizenship Politneuma) in Heaven?
Perhaps let the EXAMPLE of our Lord and the EARLY Christians be our GUIDE in this matter.
What does SCRIPTURE and HISTORY tell us about them?
John 6:15 (KJV) When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.
Juan 6:15 (TLAB) Nang mapaghalata nga ni Jesus na sila'y magsisilapit at siya'y agawin, upang siya'y gawing hari, ay muling nagbalik sa bundok na nagiisa.
John 18:36 (WEB) Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not of this world. If my Kingdom were of this world, then my servants would fight, that I wouldn’t be delivered to the Jews. But now my Kingdom is not from here.”
Juan 18:36 (TLAB) Sumagot si Jesus, Ang kaharian ko ay hindi sa sanglibutang ito: kung ang kaharian ko ay sa sanglibutang ito, ang aking mga alipin nga ay makikipagbaka, upang ako'y huwag maibigay sa mga Judio: nguni't ngayo'y ang aking kaharian ay hindi rito.
2 Timothy 2:4-5 (WEB) No soldier on duty entangles himself in the affairs of life, that he may please him who enrolled him as a soldier.
Also, if anyone competes in athletics, he isn’t crowned unless he has competed by the rules.
2 Timoteo 2:4-5 (TLAB) Sinomang kawal na nasa pagkakawal ay hindi nahalubilo sa mga bagay ng buhay na ito; upang siya'y kalugdan niyaong nagtala sa pagkakawal.
At kung ang sinoman ay makikipaglaban naman sa mga laro, ay hindi pinuputungan maliban na kung makipaglabang matuwid.
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Over the past year, I’ve written some things that have gotten me into trouble with a lot of religious people. One one level, I feel sorry that I have to offend so many people, especially people that I love and respect. On another level, I feel a sense of righteous indignation (at least I hope it’s righteous indignation and not something else) that what passes for Christianity today in the Western world is so far from what Jesus, the Apostles, and the early Church had in mind.
The quotes below cover the period of the first two centuries of Christian history. As far as I know, no respected historian disputes what you are about to read. As you read these quotes, I’d like for you to ask yourself a question. Which is more likely? That the early Church closest in time to the lives of Jesus and the Apostles, started out in error but then gradually came to the truth around the time of Constantine–or the other way around?
The Early Church and the World, Professor C. J. Cadoux writes: “Up to the reign of Marcus Aurelius at least [161-180 C.E.], no Christian would become a soldier after his baptism.”
“Early Christianity was little understood and was regarded with little favor by those who ruled the pagan world. . . . Christians refused to share certain duties of Roman citizens. . . . They would not hold political office.” (On the Road to Civilization A World History, A. K. Heckel and J. G. Sigman, 1937, pp. 237-8)
The Encyclopedia of Religion states: “The early church fathers, including Tertullian and Origen, affirmed that Christians were constrained from taking human life, a principle that prevented them from participating in the Roman army.”
In his book, E.w. Barnes’ careful review of all the information available goes to show that, until the time of Marcus Aurelius [Roman emperor from 161 to 180 C.E.], no Christian became a soldier; and no soldier, after becoming a Christian, remained in military service.The Rise of Christianity (London, 1947), E. W. Barnes, p. 333.
The book ‘The Early Christian Attitude to War’ says: “Inasmuch as they [Jesus teachings] ruled out as illicit all use of violence and injury against others, clearly implied [was] the illegitimacy of participation in war . . . The early Christians took Jesus at his word, and understood his inculcation of gentleness and non-resistance in their literal sense. They closely identified their religion with peace; they strongly condemned war for the bloodshed which it involved.”
“They refused to take any active part in the civil administration or the military defence of the empire. . . . it was impossible that the Christians, without renouncing a more sacred duty, could assume the character of soldiers, of magistrates, or of princes.” History of Christianity (New York, 1891), Edward Gibbon, pp. 162, 163.
“The behavior of the [early] Christians was very different from that of the Romans. . . . Since Christ had preached peace, they refused to become soldiers,” Our World Through the Ages.
And ‘The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire,’ by Edward Gibbon, states: “[Early Christians] refused to take any active part in the civil administration or the military defense of the empire. . . . It was impossible that the Christians, without renouncing a more sacred duty, could assume the character of soldiers.”
The Catholic Herald of London stated: “The first Christians . . . took Jesus at His word and refused to be conscripted into the Roman army even if the penalty was death. Would the whole of history have been different if the Church had stuck to its original stand? . . . If the churches of today could come out with a joint condemnation of war . . . , which would mean that every member would be bound in conscience to be, like the Christians, a conscientious objector, peace might indeed be assured. But we know that this will never happen.”
“Zealous Christians did not serve in the armed forces or accept political offices.”– World History, The Story of Mans Achievements (River Forest, Ill; 1962) Habberton, Roth and Spears, p. 117.
“While among Romans it was considered the highest honor to possess the privileges of Roman citizenship, the Christians announced that they were citizens of heaven. They shrank from public office and military service.” Persecution of the Christians in Gaul, A.D. 177 by F.F.G. Guizot, former prime minister of France, Vol. III of The Great Events by Famous Historians (New York; 1905), Rossiter Johnson, ed, p. 246.
“The Christians were strangers and pilgrims in the world around them; their citizenship was in heaven; the kingdom to which they looked was not of this world. The consequent want of interest in public affairs came thus from the outset to be a noticeable feature in Christianity. Christianity and the Roman Government.” (London; 1925), E. G. Hardy, Principal of Jesus College, Oxford, p. 39.
“The emperors disliked Christianity because it seemed unpatriotic and un-Roman.” The Course of Civilization, Volume One, (New York; 1961), p. 144.
Beautifully said and I agree totally. Politics is tied only to earthly (temporal) kingdoms. We are ambassadors for Christ. Our kingdom and citizenship are in heaven. Our main calling is to be a light to the world and salt of the earth which means to share the Gospel and to show the love of God – help the hungry, thirsty, naked, sick and imprisoned. This is our first and foremost mission. As good citizens of our nation we should vote accordingly to biblical truths but our political beliefs and actions should not hinder or interfere with our main mission of sharing the Gospel and being a witness for Christ.
The bible does say who you should vote for. You should vote for someone who will give you a "tranquil and quiet life full of godliness and dignity". (1Tim 2:1-2) Who can that be? It is someone who is the most Christ-like. Why? Because integrity and character matters (by their fruits you shall know them) and policies don't matter as much because many candidates once elected don't follow their party, platform, and promised policies. Integrity and character are time-tested indicators of how leaders will successfully react to and handle future crises. If voting means a choice between small Satan or big Satan then don't vote at all. We are not required to make a vote that would sear our conscience.
At the end of the day God will not ask you whether you voted for a Democrat or Republican. Instead He will ask you whether you knew His Son, did you share the Gospel, and did you show the love of God – help the hungry, thirsty, naked, sick and imprisoned. Did you love Me? Did you love your neighbor? Did you love your enemies?