Christianity & Government, Frame on Politics, and a Question About Converted Politicians

Welcome back to The Think Institute Newsletter. Every Friday, you get an idea from me, a quote from somebody else, and something to think about. As I write this, I am preparing for an upcoming men’s meetup The Think Institute is hosting. The topic will be Faith and Politics, so this newsletter is going to be focused on that subject. As always, I hope you find it helpful, and I hope it makes you think. 

AN IDEA FROM ME

What should our stance be toward government?

As Christians, we are to maintain a stance of subordination and obedience to the government. Going back to Romans 13, Paul opens the chapter by commanding “every person [to] be subject to the governing authorities.” Peter likewise instructs believers to “be subject… to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors…” (2 Peter 2:13–14). The rationale for this stance is easy to understand, and it is two-fold. 

First, we submit to the authorities because we recognize their God-given authority. When all is right with the world, the government is not there to cause harm but to prevent it, and the authorities are to use their authority to do so. As Christians, we want to be on the right side of the law, because we are blessed when society is peaceable and just, and when we “may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity (1 Timothy 2:2). We have a vested interest in the promotion of a lawful society.

Second, we submit to the authorities because it gives us a good name as Christians. We are already going to be hated by the world (John 15:18), but submitting to the governing authorities—not being known as scofflaws or rebels without a cause—will “put to silence the ignorance of foolish people” who accuse us of all manner of bad stuff (1 Peter 2:15).

—This is from a now-archived Hammer & Anvil Society training called “Influencing the Governmental Sphere.” If you are interested in a biblical perspective on politics, you may enjoy my brief guide, “3 Reasons Why America Should Be a Christian Nation.” You can listen to a short debate I did on the topic here. And you can download a free PDF resource here. 

A QUOTE FROM SOMEBODY ELSE

“Politics, like money, pleasure, music, education, science, sports, or whatever— is important, but not all-important. God gives to all these created things a real importance, a real dignity. But he also limits them: he will not let us worship them, put them in first place. Only he is worthy of our total devotion.”

—John Frame, Why Should I Vote? (Christianity and Politics)

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

If a non-Christian politician becomes a Christian while in office, how much would you expect his or her policies to change?

In Christ, 

Joel Settecase

President, The Think Institute

P.S. Men, if you want to get real accountability and practical theological education without going to seminary, you can still try out the Hammer & Anvil Society for 90 days free of charge. Go here to learn more.