A Christian Response to Political Division
In an age increasingly characterized by sharp political divides, Christians often find themselves navigating a complex landscape of differing ideologies, passionate arguments, and sometimes, outright animosity. The world around us seems to fracture along partisan lines, and sadly, these divisions can even infiltrate the Church, threatening to undermine the very unity Christ prayed for. As followers of Jesus Christ, our response to political division must be distinctly different from that of the world. It must be rooted in eternal truths, guided by biblical principles, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Our ultimate allegiance is not to any earthly party or platform, but to the King of kings and Lord of lords, whose kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36).
The Sovereignty of God and Our Heavenly Citizenship
The first and most foundational truth for a Christian facing political turmoil is the absolute sovereignty of God. While earthly powers rise and fall, and human leaders scheme and contend, it is God who ultimately reigns. The Bible clearly declares that He sets up kings and removes them, and that the hearts of rulers are in His hand.
And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:
Understanding God's supreme authority provides a bedrock of peace amidst political uncertainty. It reminds us that no matter how dire the circumstances may appear, God's eternal purposes will prevail. This perspective naturally leads to the understanding of our true citizenship. As believers, our primary identity and allegiance are not to any earthly nation, but to the heavenly kingdom.
For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
This heavenly citizenship does not negate our civic duties or our responsibility to be salt and light in the world, but it reorients our priorities. Our hope is not placed in any political system or leader, but in Christ alone. This eternal perspective allows us to engage with political matters without succumbing to the despair or idolatry that often accompanies earthly allegiances.
The Call to Unity in the Body of Christ
One of the most tragic consequences of political division is its potential to splinter the Body of Christ. Believers, who are united by the shed blood of Jesus and indwelt by the same Holy Spirit, can find themselves at odds over political issues, allowing secondary matters to eclipse the primary call to unity. Jesus Himself prayed earnestly for the unity of His followers:
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
The Apostle Paul similarly exhorted believers to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). Our unity in Christ transcends racial, social, and certainly political distinctions. In Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free, male nor female (Galatians 3:28). This principle extends to political affiliations. While Christians may hold differing, biblically informed convictions on political policies, these differences should never be allowed to break fellowship or cause strife within the Church. Instead, we are called to bear with one another in love, seeking to understand and respect differing viewpoints, always prioritizing the unity of the Spirit.
The Primacy of Love and Peacemaking
At the heart of the Christian response to any conflict, including political division, is the command to love. Jesus declared that the greatest commandments are to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbour as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). This love is not a sentimental feeling but a sacrificial act of the will, seeking the good of others, even those with whom we disagree.
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
This love extends even to our political adversaries. Jesus commanded us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). This radical love calls us to engage in political discourse with humility, grace, and respect, avoiding the vitriol and personal attacks so common in public discourse. Instead of demonizing those with opposing views, we are to be peacemakers, seeking reconciliation and understanding wherever possible. Paul's admonition in Romans 12:18 is particularly relevant: "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." This does not mean compromising truth, but it does mean pursuing peace through respectful dialogue and gracious conduct.
Prayer and Submission to Authority
A practical and powerful Christian response to political division is prayer. The Apostle Paul instructs us to pray for all in authority:
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
Praying for our leaders, regardless of their political affiliation or our agreement with their policies, is a divine command. We pray for their wisdom, for their righteous governance, and for the peace and order that allows the Gospel to flourish. This act of prayer shifts our focus from complaining and critiquing to actively seeking God's will for our nation and its leaders.
Furthermore, the Bible calls for submission to governing authorities, as they are ordained by God (Romans 13:1). This submission is not absolute, as we must obey God rather than men when human laws contradict divine commands (Acts 5:29). However, within the bounds of God's moral law, Christians are called to be law-abiding citizens, paying taxes, honouring authorities, and contributing positively to society (1 Peter 2:13-17). Our obedience and respectful conduct serve as a powerful witness to the unbelieving world, demonstrating that our ultimate loyalty is to a higher King who calls us to order and righteousness.
Our Witness in a Divided World
Finally, a Christian's response to political division is a crucial aspect of our witness to the world. In a society fractured by animosity and strife, the Church has a unique opportunity to demonstrate an alternative way of living—a way marked by peace, love, and unity. When believers allow political differences to define their relationships or compromise their Christian conduct, it hinders the Gospel message. Conversely, when we engage in political discourse with grace, truth, and humility, even while holding strong convictions, we shine as lights in the darkness.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Our words should be seasoned with grace, "fitly spoken" (Proverbs 25:11), and aimed at edifying, not tearing down. We are to walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, making the most of every opportunity (Colossians 4:5). This means choosing our battles carefully, speaking truth in love, and always remembering that our primary mission is not to win political arguments, but to win souls for Christ.
Conclusion
The political divisions of our age present both a challenge and an opportunity for the Church. As Christians, we are called to rise above the fray, grounding ourselves in the unshakeable truth of God's sovereignty and our heavenly citizenship. Our response must be characterized by:
- Unwavering allegiance to Christ above all earthly powers.
- Earnest pursuit of unity within the Body of Christ, refusing to let political differences divide us.
- Radical love and peacemaking towards all people, including those with whom we disagree.
- Consistent prayer for our leaders and submission to authority as God has ordained.
- A compelling witness that demonstrates the transforming power of the Gospel in a broken world.
May we, as followers of Christ, be known not for our political affiliations, but for our love, our unity, and our unwavering commitment to the kingdom of God. In doing so, we will not only navigate the complexities of political division but also point a lost and divided world to the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.