By Whitney Robertson
As a junior in college, I have had the opportunity to do two main things the past three years — (1) observe and (2) learn.
And as a junior at one of the most conservative yet politically involved colleges in the nation, I have seen the integration of politics and Christianity on more than one occasion. Whether it was hearing from presidential candidates, senators, congressmen or the president of my university promote a political ideal, we have been soaked in it all — from the far left to the far right.
What I have observed is that Christians like to separate their faith from their politics. I cannot tell you how many people complain when we have a politician come to convocation or when President Falwell references the infamous Bible passage, Matthew 22:15–22.
What I have observed is the fact that, outside of my father’s preaching, I can count on one hand the number of sermons these past three years I have heard on topics such as voting, a Christian’s role in government, and/or more sensitive topics like abortion, gay marriage, or immigration.
What I have observed is the amount of Christians posting on Facebook about how they are tired of seeing articles or posts regarding politics filter through their newsfeed.
And even still, I have had this idea burning in my pocket for a while now.
An idea that Christians are missing the mark when it comes to politics …
What I have learned is that this separation between Christianity and politics as we know it today is unbiblical.
That’s right. Completely contrary to the Word of God.
And I would go so far as to say that a true, born-again believer has an obligation to make known and defend his or her political beliefs. Here’s why:
According to Black’s Law Dictionary, politics is the “the science of government; the art or practice of administering public affairs.”
According to Scripture, the government is an institution, also referred to as “God’s servant”, ordained by God himself and created for our own good (Romans 13:1–4). Paul continues on to say that we are to serve it, honor it, and respect it.
How?
By participating in it (Romans 13:5–7).
Does this mean everyone must run for office? No.
However, if you are reading this today and are an American citizen, you were given the beautiful blessing of being able to have a say in the public affairs of our nation.
The blessing of being able to elect God-fearing people into high positions of authority.
The blessing of being able to protest against laws or ideas contrary to God’s Word.
“Learn to do what is good. Seek justice. Correct the oppressor. Defend the rights of the fatherless. Plead the widow’s cause.”
— Isaiah 1:26
The blessing of having a nation-wide platform through social media in order to make your voice heard.
Blessings all paid for by the blood of the many soldiers who lived dying for it and by the tears of their many family members who cried sacrificing for it.
And yet, what do we do? We rant about the ridiculous amount of politics being discussed at the dinner table, in the work place, on the news, and even by other Christians … then we get upset when no one pays attention to our silence.
“So it is a sin for the person who knows to do what is good and doesn’t do it.”
— James 4:17
The reality is, we live in a world where killing babies before they leave the womb is simply a matter of convenience.
School shootings are yesterday’s news.
Mainstream media is the poster-boy for what it looks like to disrespect authority.
People do what they want, when they want, with whomever they want and blame everyone else for their consequences.
Our silence may be well-intentioned.
We justify it by attempting to disguise it as self-righteousness, but when will we learn …
“In human intercourse the tragedy begins, not when there is misunderstanding about words, but when silence is misunderstood.”
— Henry David Thoreau
Wake up, Christian, and uphold the commandment given to you by your Savior, Jesus Christ, in politics and all aspects of life.
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled on by men. You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lamp stand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
— Matthew 5:13–16
Living out the gospel is not enough.
Speak it. Defend it. Fight for it.
Or don’t complain when it is “thrown out and trampled on by men.”
Whitney Robertson is a student at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, and daughter of Philip Robertson, pastor of Philadelphia Baptist Church in Deville. To read more of Robertson’s work, visit her website.
