Too Much Politics In His Religion And Not Enough Religion In His Politics!
Rick Tincher
Recently, a very faithful member of the church made a comment that was intriguing to me. He said he had encountered “too much politics” in his local congregation. I did not inquire any further as to what he was talking about. I did consider what he possibly could have meant.
Actually, politics has several characteristics that should never be seen in the body of Christ in any form.
First, politics involves the craving of power. This tends to be what motivates many politicians. John wrote in 3 John 9, “I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.”
Self-promotion has no place among children of God. It is not about me; it never has been, and it never will be! Jesus indicted the political/religious leaders of His time. ”Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not … all their works they do for to be seen of men: … And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, … But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” Matthew 23:1-3, 5, 6, 11-12.
Second, politics involves the craving of popularity. Jesus said following Him certainly would not lead to popularity: “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.” Paul told Timothy to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” The expression “in season, out of season” is understood to mean whether it is popular or not.
Obviously, these elements of politics do not fit into true Christian religion but, far too often, are found therein.
Now, let me talk about the second half of the statement, “… not enough religion in his politics.” We live in a country where we are afforded the privilege and right to be politically active. For example, we have the right to vote. One who is a Christian who chooses to vote must not leave his religious principles at home when he votes. I understand that almost all of the candidates from whom we choose are not true Christians. However, I would seek the man who more closely reflects Biblical standards of morality. I cannot support a candidate who supports abortion, homosexuality, violation of the Biblical mandate to work, etc.
I do not advocate disrespect for political leaders or government in general. Paul was clear in his admonition to the Roman brethren: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. Romans 13:1-5.
I thank God that I was born in the United States of America where we can be involved legally in the political process. We must strive to take the politics out of Christian religion while, at the same time, applying Christian standards to our political involvement. –14310 Wooster Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050.