Politics Worthy of the Gospel
Christian Citizenship and the Local Church
By C. Welton Gaddy
Addressing the relationship between responsible citizenship and a local church is akin to walking through an unmarked minefield to reach a much desired destination. Dangers abound. Risks are inevitable. But to get to where we want to be, ought to be, traversing threatening territory is a necessity.
Faithful Christian discipleship involves responsible Christian citizenship. A church serious about nurturing holistic Christian disciples must be realistic and intentional in offering help for believers struggling with the challenges and complexities of civil duties and secular politics. Fulfilling this responsibility is not easy, but it’s a crucial part of being church.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians, “Live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” (1:27) The word in the text that bears the concept of manner of life is polileusthe, from which we get “politic.” An accurate paraphrase of the apostle’s comment admonishes Christians, “Let your politics be worthy of the gospel of Christ.” That’s the point! Here is the reason for the church’s concern about responsible citizenship on the part of Christians. Honoring the gospel and serving Christ produce a politically responsible life.
But, how can a church do it? Diverse voices shouting mixed messages bombard the church with counsel. One person believes a church should never address a political issue—“We must keep our eyes focused on ‘spiritual’ concerns.” Another individual enthusiastically pushes for a church to endorse a specific candidate for public office or to identify a particular political platform as “the Christian position.” Still another person piously encourages the church to endorse responsible citizenship but never in a manner that is controversial (prophetic witness notwithstanding). What is a church to do?
Keep in mind that one goal in a church’s ministry is the practice of citizenship worthy of the gospel of Christ. Here are a few suggestions as to how a church can reach toward that goal of ministry without losing its integrity.
PROVIDE EDUCATION ON POLITICAL MATTERS
Most issues in the political area that really matter are moral issues. A church is the proper context for conversation about morals. A church need not adopt a partisan position to provide basic moral education. At its best, a church informs people for decision-making rather than dictates decisions.
People need to know what the Bible says about citizenship. A church can ensure intensive studies of passages such as Romans 13:1-7, 1 Peter 2:9-14, and 1 Timothy 2:1-3 and facilitate discussions on the application of these texts to contemporary situations.
During an election, a church serves everybody beneficially by hosting forums on the candidates and issues up for consideration by voters.
INSPIRE POLITICAL ACTION
Positive change in our nation as in our communities results from conscientious persons translating high hopes and noble ideals into political actions. Democracy invites personal involvement in government. Christianity demands it.
A church that periodically calls people to consider civil service as a viable form of Christian vocation faithfully serves God, its members, and the larger community.
AVOID POLITICAL ENDORSEMENTS Political endorsements by a church compromise the mission of that church. Even when discussing politics, a church has an obligation to remain a church, not to attempt to function as a political action group. Besides, the cause of God does not stand or fall on the basis of the election of one person to an office or the passage of a certain piece of legislation.
PRACTICE GOOD CITIZENSHP
A congregation that functions as a good institutional citizen in its community models its message for its members. Responsible citizenship consists of praying for political leaders, obeying laws, and staying informed on community needs as well as voting in an election.
A troublesome situation needs correction. Churches have tolerated mediocrity and immorality in the political arena, then criticized politicians. Churches should demand excellence and morality in politics, then respond to responsible citizens with respect, affirmation, and prayers.
The church of Jesus Christ is God’s chosen body for commending, nurturing, and modeling citizenship worthy of the gospel of Christ.
C. Welton Gaddy is the pastor of Northminster Church in Monroe, Louisiana. His latest book is Faith and Politics: What’s A Christian To Do? The book may be purchased by calling Smyth and Helwys at 800-747-3016.
August 1996