Q25. Politics

[Pastor Ralph]

Q25. What is the danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves too closely with political leaders? What do the Christian leaders hope to gain from the association? What do the political leaders hope to gain? What is the effect on the church and Christ’s work if these political leaders are ungodly men? How can Christians work for good through politics without being corrupted by a quest for power?

[Krissi]

It could be the case that those Eastern Orthodox Patriarchs spoke God's words prophetically. Time and history will prove them either right or wrong. Though dark outfits, long beards, icons and eye-intensity may seem frightening to those unfamiliar with Orthodoxy, not all prophets or religious leaders look and sound like congenial, Western pastors. 

As someone who has worked among the powerful for many years and will soon be going into a very difficult situation, I am well aware that most leaders are not godly. Still, I have found fellowship in the most unexpected places and have come to regard some of these powerful men as God's blinking lights shining dimly on far-away hillocks.  

Christians are always in danger when they rub up against the world. That's the test of faith. We're tested in our families, neighborhoods and politics, but also in business, academe, non-profits, media, and, yes, the church. We are in this world, but not of it, after all. The Holy Spirit, ultimately, "keeps" us. Those called to walk the halls of power are given His protection, just as those called to fields, homesteads or small businesses. Wherever called, we are His missionaries. 

Christians do much in political places. We channel the direction of the political current in ways that help ordinary people. We work behind the scenes to nudge/promote godly policies. We champion options that no one considers: many pols exist in dissent-free siloes so when we speak honestly with an alternative voice, we give the priceless gift of perspective. We directly witness when God opens those doors. We shield, deflect, put words into their mouths ... etc. So, He has put us in positions of tremendous influence which we exercise anonymously and quietly. Such is our calling.

Political leaders also get our expertise. Since we should be graded on the same sliding scale as seculars and non-believers but are, instead, held to a higher standard, we have to be the best at our craft, whatever it is, to overcome the world's bias/bigotry against Christians. This is difficult, to say the least. In addition to expertise, political leaders find in us a person they trust, someone who genuinely cares for them, prays for them, wipes away their tears in moments of weakness and then marches them back to the podium. They are men of clay feet. Nothing more.

It is worldly and weak to think of powerful men as a greater threat than the least of us. These men are not to be summarily feared or rejected because they are powerful just as we do not reject the desperate, poor and vulnerable. Power is fungible and moves to where God puts it.

He is sovereign. 

These are the verses taped to the wall. I pray these verses daily: 

• "I stood up and said to the nobles, officials and the rest of the people, 'Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord who is great and awesome and fight for your sons and daughters, your wives and your homes.'"  Neh 4.14
• "There remains yet very much land to be possessed." Josh 13
• "I will go before you and will level the mountains, I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron."  Isa 35
• "The anointing I have received from Him abides in me, so I don't need that anyone teach me because the same anointing teaches me all things and is true. Just as it is teaching me, I will abide in Him." I Jn 2

One more thing. This is God's calling. His mission. Nothing should dissuade any believer from doing what God puts on his or her heart, even the words of a pastor of whom I think highly.

[Katy]

Q25. Christian’s who identify closely with political leaders may be in danger of being aligned with anything they do that is wrong. However they may also be able to influence them to right Christian thinking if they are prepared to listen and the Christian is brave enough to speak out. Christian’s May hope to influence the leaders in question but they may also be seeking position and power themselves. The Christian person may just have the skills or expertise the political person needs and are just seeking employment with no hidden agenda. There are many who would seize the opportunity to speak out against God and His Church if a Christian worked closely with ungodly political leaders. A Christian would need to learn discernment in such a matter and may have to distance themselves from ungodly men. This may be difficult but a true follower of Jesus will do the right thing before damage is done to the church. Christian’s must take every opportunity to speak out about issues which are happening which are wrong , by being consistent and respectful influence can be brought to bear. 

[MLS]

For me, the key phrase in the question asked is “identifying themselves too closely”.   What burns in our hearts?   A political agenda?   A political party?  
What measure of faith do we place in it?    Does Holy scripture ever encourage us to align with political leaders?   Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.  Prov 4:23.    
 

Political leaders want to buy the “Christian vote” but have little interest in taking up their own cross to follow Him.   Vote your conscience but don’t allow politicians to buy your heart and lead countless others astray.  
 

The tragic effect on the American church has been division.   We prefer preference over the desires of our Father to love the brethren.   The greatest commandment-that we love one another.    Not our politics.  
 

I believe Christians can positively affect politics IF they have a single, un comprised heart.   Not sitting at the Democratic table.   Not sitting at the Republican table.    But sitting at the table of our Lord, serving Him and Him alone.   Making absolutely sure you have accountability to Christian believers on both sides of the aisle to hold you accountable to Him and Him alone.   Make sure He has called you and that you pursue political activity with a pure, un compromised heart.  
Otherwise your Christian testimony is dragged through political mire.   For this reason we have become a stench to many.  
 

 

 

 

 

[hanks]

Q25. 
What is the danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves too closely with political leaders? What do the Christian leaders hope to gain from the association? What do the political leaders hope to gain? What is the effect on the church and Christ's work if these political leaders are ungodly men? How can Christians work for good through politics without being corrupted by a quest for power? 
In the presence of political leaders, it is difficult to oppose them, the natural tendency would be to mostly agree with what is said. The danger to Christian leaders then is that the true Word of God might not be spoken in case it might offend some. By not confronting political leaders, the Christian leaders might hope to receive favourable treatment for their church and their congregation. This actually occurred in my country to such an extent that most top government appointments came mostly from the one favoured denomination. Political leaders are of course only interest in votes – this brings them the power they seek. Ungodly political leaders, are by definition, haters of our LORD, and will lead the nation astray; Ahab is a good example of this. In this political system there will be no room for God or His Son.
The name of Jesus Christ will be unwelcomed or even forbidden. All this will adversely affect the church and the work of our Saviour Jesus. James 4:4 teaches us an important lesson that friendship with the world is enmity with God. There is to be no alliance with corrupt or ungodly politicians. Of course, we are to obey the laws and be good citizens (Rom 13:1-2). We read in 2 Cor 6:14 not to be yoked together with unbelievers. We are to be extra careful not to compromise our faith, not to be led astray. We must maintain this sincere and pure devotion to Christ (2 Cor 11:3). We have all heard that “religion and politics don’t mix”, but obviously, we cannot have no contact with them. We must be extra cautious not to associate too closely with them, and thereby making ourselves vulnerable to their corruption or quest for power. In the end, we must remember that God is Sovereign and that “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose” (Rom 8:28). He is in control. 
 

[lighthouse2014]

Christian leaders should not identify themselves too closely political leaders because it would appear they are identifying with their political beliefs or agenda. the only thing Christian leaders would hope to obtain from such a relationship is recognition or fame from a union.

If Christian leaders associate with ungodly political leaders, it would show that the church aggress with ungodly issues and hinder Christ work in the church and fellowmen

Christian leaders can benefit through politics by explaining the beliefs of different parties, candidates and those holding a currant office. Which hold to conservative views and those that corrupt government.       

[haar]

Q25. What is the danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves too closely with political leaders? What do the Christian leaders hope to gain from the association? What do the political leaders hope to gain? What is the effect on the church and Christ's work if these political leaders are ungodly men? How can Christians work for good through politics without being corrupted by a quest for power?

The danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves so closely with politicians is that they may find themselves not bold enough declare the truth for fear of hurting the leader and loosing the benefits of the relationship.

Generally, political leader are just interested in getting votes and winning elections even if the process of getting the votes was not ethical.  They would therefore generally want only people who would tell them what will align with their interest and would not therefore want anyone to tell them a truth that might not align with interest.

However, Christians whether they are political leaders or followers/ advisers, should always say nothing but the truth.

[Jonathan Edwards]

Did not Prophet Amos state that two cannot walk together unless they are agreed?  A fault committed prepares the way for a repetition sad to say.   Friendships involve sympathies; Jehosophat had a serious conflict of interests. What is so bizarre is how a godly man can have affinity to a family of idol worshippers.   Ahab and Jezebel didn't not renounce idol worship;idol shrines were still being used. Jehosophat should have had a sense of revulsion in his heart toward such an alliance with Ahab.

Some Christain leaders have rose colored glasses on.   They are naive in their thinking that social changes can be wrought.  The hearts of men are deceitful.  Apostle Paul makes that very clear throughout Romans chapters 1-2.  Their throats are like open graves.  Political leaders are looking for votes, financial rewards and favors and advancement.  Here in USA, Political leaders have empty words and misled its citizens, and use people as ATM machines.

Case study is the German church back n the 1930s.   Many German church leaders were misled by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party.   Except for a few heroic leaders, many in the German church world had no problems with Hitler.   European history illustrates the faults of the close affinities of church and state.   There were so many problems that the early Mennonites taught that church and state are two separate entities.   Early Anabaptist movement influenced our nation's history on this matter.

Bible believers must be diligent in daily Bible study and prayer if they are genuinely led to participate in government affairs.   They cannot be naive thinking that an ungodly reprobate government is going to approve of godly laws overnite; truly this is a tough call.   USA GOVERNMENT and local governments are not hospitable to conservative Christians.   Some Christians can be like a Joseph or a Daniel; the environment was not easy for them, but they diligently served God under ungodly circumstances.   Called by God for holy tasks.

[Irmela]

Q25. What is the danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves too closely with political leaders?

What do the Christian leaders hope to gain from the association?

What do the political leaders hope to gain?

What is the effect on the church and Christ's work if these political leaders are ungodly men?

How can Christians work for good through politics without being corrupted by a quest for power?

Politics is definitely not my favourite topic. In fact in general it is a topic I steer clear from and generally 'hope for the best'.  It does not make sense how people endowed with so much power often agree to such ridiculous actions, eg., abortion which is murder of an innocent person, how can anyone in their right mind not see that.

A Christian leader, in fact anyone , is often looked up to or looked down upon, because of his/her associates.  When a Christian leader gets 'close' to a political leader, they get to know that person much better than the general public do.  This means that judgement is sometimes thwarted because of being close to the person and not really hearing or seeing in which way the political decision is leading.  In your heart you might not agree completely with that person, but because you are close to them you excuse or put up with their conduct or decision.  The public sees you as being part of that unchristian or unbiblical decision and in this way your character is maligned or your influence in work, not politically related, is maligned or marred.

It is similar to making a weaker person stumble when he sees someone who he looks up to entering a 'not so cozy place'.  The stronger person might have gone in looking for someone to bring them out, but the weaker person sees it as being ok to frequent such places. Before long he has fallen and gone into addiction or something similar.  So using wisdom, as to where your affiliations lie, is always appropriate.  

Sometimes it is all above board and an honest godly association with the political leader or vice-versa, the Christian leader is sought.  Unfortunately it is not always so.  The political leader might wish to gain votes. Being associated with a Christian leader could bring in votes from people who would normally not vote for that leader.  The Christian leader in turn might hope for "help" in gaining ground or more followers because of his association with the political leader.

If the political leaders are 'ungodly' men it brings confusion to the minds of those who have supported the Christian leader up till then.  He too is now seen as ungodly.  

I do understand that Christ followers have a place in politics.  As someone has mentioned, Daniel and Joseph. Look at Mordecai, also.   Have God as the One you look to in spite of who you work for or where you work.  Be honest and just.  Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord and be not influenced by corruption.  Make sure you have people supporting you in prayer.    Make prayerful decisions.  

 

[Christopher Olamiji Taiwo]

Q25. What is the danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves too closely with political leaders? What do the Christian leaders hope to gain from the association? What do the political leaders hope to gain? What is the effect on the church and Christ's work if these political leaders are ungodly men? How can Christians work for good through politics without being corrupted by a quest for power?

The of Christian leaders identifying too closely with the political leaders are numerous, because would be carried away by their interests and speak or prophesied without God involved. 

The Christian leaders want to be popular, influential and money. 

The political leaders gained support of the members votes from the Christian leaders. 

Christians can work for good through politics without being corrupt by a quest for power through prayer and trust in God's Word. 

[blezed]

What is the danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves too closely with political leaders?

The danger of Christian leaders identifying themselves with political leaders is that when you seek the favor of a great man, you know you cannot speak a word from God against him and still keep his favor. So you allow certain things to be said or done and you know are wrong and do not comment on them.

What do the Christian leaders hope to gain from the association? What do the political leaders hope to gain?

Both leaders hope to gain whomever/whatever will align with their agenda.   

What is the effect on the church and Christ’s work if these political leaders are ungodly men? How can Christians work for good through politics without being corrupted by a quest for power?

We see it today!  Division! We need to humble ourselves. Everything that is said needs to be weighed carefully and we are to discern what is said and hold onto the good.

[Paula Price]

Our ministry, our mission as Christians, is drawing souls to the kingdom! We are to preach the gospel to the lost souls and tell them the good news of Jesus Christ. Tell them and lead them, point them to the path of righteousness! Christians as disciples of Jesus have been assigned the Great Commission.  "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this that I am with you always, even to the ends of the ages." (Matt.28:20). 

This is our responsibility ! It is not political!. When Jesus spoke with the religious leaders and government leaders, his message was always about obedience to the Father. He spoke of love and righteousness and on being merciful and kind and forgiving and doing what is right and fair and just. He taught and spoke on justice and having and showing compassion for one another. Jesus came to fulfill the old law of Moses and to show mankind the way back to God. The wages of sin is death. The gift of God is eternal life. Until political leaders change their hearts and repent of their sins and start living their lives according to the will of God, until they accept Jesus as their savior and are born again, and change and turn from their wicked ways, our government will get no better! Our state was founded on the principles of Justice and equality for all!! In God we trust is on our currency and we have a bible to swear our leadership into office!! But when it comes to obedience of that Bible, which is the word of God, that we say we will follow, what happens after we are in office?? We have allowed prayer to be taken out our schools! We are accepting all kinds of behavior that is not of God! Why is Thanks given and Christmas the only times during the year that we show love and compassion for others??? Why are we allowing our children to watch and play with shows and things that are violent and mean and disrespectful?? There is a right and wrong way to live and act. Why is the wrong way more acceptable?? Our children learn from what they see us do ! Are we showing them the right way?? The loving way? The way of God??? Why do we choose to follow leaders who only want to do what is in their best interest? What happened to voting for those who want what's  right, just and fair?? Those who treat everyone with equality and justice for all? Why are we showing and choosing violence and hate over love and peace?? Why can't we show kindness to those who we may not agree with instead of judgment??

Jesus is our example!! We should be walking in the path he has left and commanded us to follow!!! We are to be about our fathers business of leading souls back to him!! If we are in a position of political influence with a government leader, our focus should be on doing the will of God, telling and showing them the righteousness way to lead.

[JOLLAM BANDA]

It is dangerous for Christians to identify themselves too closely with political leaders. Most times political leaders do contrary to what the Gods word says. In most cases political leaders serve their interests and not that of the Lord Jehovah. Paul, in 2 Corinthians 6:14 questions what relationship have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? When Christian leaders identify themselves too closely with political leaders and worse still if political leaders are ungodly men, the Church and Christ work suffers and Jesus Christ teachings and principles are abandoned. Believers can and should related to unbelievers but must never emulate their lifestyles of separation from God.

 

 

[Kym Nixon]

They can be compromised through fear of losing their status. A platform and support. Political leaders hope to gain validation of their policies. It can hurt true prophecy where people doubt there is true prophecy in this day and age. When leaders the church endorses are ungodly, it discredits their prophecy. Christians can support godly candidates and policies. 

[Old Jerry]

As I have seen that political leaders will throw the Christian leaders overboard the second that they disagree with their decision. I guess that the Christian leaders hope to gain a favor from the political leader. The political leaders hope to gain the respect from the group that following the Christian leader. The effect on the church and Christ’s work if the political leader is ungodly is the Christian leader will lose their respect.