As Christians and people of faith, have you ever asked yourself: “What would happen if there was no government, no political authority?”
Although the thought would be tempting to buy popcorn to watch our senators and representatives sent packing, it would cause more harm than good. Watching the media to see that the executive branch is pardoning reality stars instead of working on the price of groceries, gas, and everything else can be sickening. Seeing how people act on the Congressional floor is akin to school-age children arguing in the sandbox, but those are our leaders, America.
We need them there for taxes. Yes, taxes. Without those, many things taken for granted (e.g., paved roads, state education budgets, veterans’ benefits, and whatever remains of Social Security) would disappear. The government not only makes laws but also establishes regulations for pharmaceuticals, environmental standards, public libraries, and schools. When it comes to faith and politics, Christians should not act one way and believe another.
Yet, how should our faith shape what we think of our national leaders? What should Christians do when it comes to elected leaders? What would Jesus want us to do, whether we voted for these people or not?
Before we delve into those questions and gain an understanding, stay in touch with faith-based issues that hit “close to home.” Subscribe to our free newsletter and never miss what’s being said about the Church and being done in the Church—and what real Christians can say and do in return to defend the love and work of Christ.
Christians Are Called to Be Salt, Not Be Salty
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:13-14 NIV)
The secret of this scripture is understanding if we are to be the “salt of the Earth” as Christians, then our lifestyle should make others thirsty for what we have in Christ. We should walk in love, speak in faith and always have a kind word or gesture for others. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Usually, this happens when things don’t go a certain way.
Protesting is a peaceful visual statement, usually. Regretfully, for those who appreciate their constitutional right to assembly, this image is usually what most people think about protests—damaged buildings, torched cars, looting and anything else that resembles anarchy following a Zombie apocalypse.
Christians have a choice when they respond to anything. The meek shall inherit the earth (Matthew 11:29), but the meek rarely gets things done. Everyone seems to be a bully and thinks the only way people “listen” is if they are shouting. Life is not the “Jerry Springer Show.” It’s not necessary to yell and act like a fool to address your concerns.
Ask someone who is not a Christian, “When you think of a Christian protesting, what thought comes to mind?” This is usually the answer. (NSFW WARNING)
Were you there? Do you know anyone who didn’t have a problem with an insurrection? Does this look like the actions of rational, Christ-centered believers? Of course not! Nothing about the sinister, seditious actions of January 6, 2021, were patriotic, nationalistic or Christ-like. Yet, because a gaggle of yahoos carrying Jesus signs and American flags did that to the U.S. Capitol, all Christians were painted with that broad and prickly brush.
The only “salt” about any of those types of hypocrites is the burning sensation when it’s thrown in your eyes.
Political Authority is Not Next to Biblical Authority
“Obey the government, for God is the one who has put it there. There is no government anywhere that God has not placed in power.” (Romans 13:1 TLB)
Romans 13 has long been regarded as an exhortation to obey political authority, submit to our leaders, and maintain social order. Make no mistake: A substantial part of Christian integrity is civic responsibility. How we treat, respect, and respond to political authority is a reflection of how we think of spiritual authority.
Paul’s direction here calls for Christians to submit to authority but not to be silent. Christians are asked to stand up against tyranny, not the government, because they have some issue with policy. And just because submission does not mean silence, it’s not a carte blanche to act like those goobers at Westboro Baptist Church. There’s no virtue in hot-headed riots, inflammatory accusations, and foul-mouthed signs. Likewise, Christians aren’t to be political sycophants absorbing every word dribbling from the leaders of whatever party.
The Bible is our center, our balance. We act according to the precepts provided in God’s Word. Christians should consider the fabled marketing slogan “W.W.J.D.” before they wonder, “What do I want to do?” In this letter, Paul acknowledges the imperfection of man’s leadership and political authority. He urges Christians to find solace in the fact that there is no authority outside of what God created.
Additionally, just a few verses before, Paul told the Roman converts, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).
Does anything from January 6, a Westboro pep rally for its deranged acolytes, or some of the hate spewed from today’s bully pulpit and misguided Bible studies seem like “overcoming with good?” God isn’t honored with those actions, and the effectiveness of that outer witness doesn’t equal the model of Jesus Christ.
Paul also spoke to his younger protege, Timothy, about how to act toward political authority. If there’s ever any question, it’s resolved here.
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2 NKJV)
We are to pray for our leaders—regardless of color or gender, party or faith. They were elected to lead us all. The least Christians can do is equip and guard them with prayer so they do a superior job.
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