Micah 6:8, I Timothy 2:1-3, Matthew 5:13-16, John 17:20-23

Introduction:

What is politics?

– Politics is the art or science of government

– The Scriptures teach that government is essential to a healthy, thriving society.

– Most Christians believe God created three institutions: family, government, and church.

– Politics is about making agreements between people so that they can live together in groups.

Why Politics Matter

– Politics shape our policies. Policies affect people’s lives, and God cares about people.

– God cares about all people, especially the vulnerable, the marginalized, the helpless, the poor.

I. How to Vote

While you may be attracted or offended by a candidate’s personality, it should not be a determining factor. Character is determined by in depth knowledge of an individual. Unfortunately much of what we know about the candidates is from 2nd or 3rd party sources.

Vote biblically

– Remember your dual citizenship. When in conflict choose God’s kingdom over the kingdom of this world.

– Choose your faith filter over your party filter.
– Ask: what do the Scriptures say about the KEY issues?

– From a Biblical perspective –both “conservative” and “liberal” issues are addressed.

ISSUES:

• Sanctity of life is affirmed (Psalm 139/Jeremiah 1:5)
• Two genders: Male and Female (Genesis 1:27)
• Pro-business:  Work over welfare (Mt, 25 / 1 Thess 4:11/ 2 Thess 3:7-13)
• Greater wealth given to some more than others.(Mt 25, 1 Sam 2:7Ecclesiastes 5:19Proverbs 10:22)
• Family structure as the basic social structure for society and the church.(I Timothy 3:4,5 /5:8. Exodus 20:12 /Eph 5:25,33/ Dt. 6:1,2)

• Care for the poor (Leviticus 19:9-10  Dt. 15:7-11 / Jm 2:15-16
• Debt forgiveness.  (Leviticus 25:25-30)
• Pro-environment.  (Genesis 2:15 )
• Embrace the immigrant. (Leviticus 19:34, 27:19)
• Hatred of injustice; including economic, racial, and gender injustices. (Isaiah 1:17 , Micah 6:8)

Vote by examining platforms in light of the Scriptures

Resources on how to vote biblically:

– Well-versed World – Dr. Jim Garlow
Cites Scriptures which underscore current political issues

wellversedworld.org

– AskDrBrown/ In the Line of Fire (broadcast on YouTube)
Dr. Michael Brown tackles the issues from a biblical perspective.

II. PRAY

_I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness._ I Timothy 2:1-3

III. LOVE

Jesus’ ASK: “Make them one”– the call for unity John 17:20-23

Jesus’ Appeal: “Shine your light” – the call for good works Matt 5:16

Jesus’ Command: “Love one another – that they may know and believe that You have sent me.” John 13:34,35