Voting as a Christian

The soon return of Christ to judge the living and the dead is a constant reminder to the Christian that we are living for a heavenly country. Paul writes, “Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.” This is vital to remember in this caustic and crude election cycle. While we live here and share genuine loving concern for our fellow man, we are not ultimately patriots of the U.S. but servants of King Jesus.

So, how do we serve King Jesus while also participating in a democratic form of government? With our votes and our voice we influence those who lead us. All Christians, for the love of their neighbors and the advance of the gospel will want a government that will do the following.

1. Live and rule with righteous character. It is an abomination for kings to commit wicked acts, for a throne is established on righteousness (Proverbs 16:12).
2. Be guided by truth and wisdom. If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked (Proverbs 29:12).
3. Keep the influence of the wicked from his presence. Take away the wicked from the presence of the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness (Proverbs 25:5).
4. Uphold the rights of the poor. If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever (Proverbs 29:14).
5. Promote the flourishing of godliness and the gospel. We pray, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:2-4).

In a democracy, a Christian has the freedom to participate by voting for something, voting against something, or even abstaining if he does not see an acceptable choice. The Christian, according to his best understanding of scripture, must participate according to his conscience.

This presidential election in particular presents many challenges. Will any candidate uphold those five principles? Christians are debating this vigorously. At times we have observed some Christians sin in the manner they voice their opinions. As elders we urge you to remain united in the faith with love and care to all even if you have differing opinions.

Equally important are the local and statewide elections. Individual votes have greater sway locally. If you do not want to vote for president, don’t lose the opportunity to influence the city, state or country through the elections of representatives, senators, councilmen, judges, or statewide initiatives.

Regardless of the outcome, we participate in the election process as a form of love to our neighbors. Our citizenship is not here. Our primary mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. An unrighteous outcome here will not go unnoticed by King Jesus. He will return to judge. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev. 19:16).

Dan Jarms

Dr. Dan Jarms is teaching pastor and team leader at Faith Bible Church in Spokane Washington, as well as associate dean at The Master's Seminary in Spokane. He has been married for over 30 years to Linda, and has three adult children. He earned his B.A. in English at the Master’s College, B.Ed. at Eastern Washington University, M.Div and D.Min in Expository Preaching at The Master’s Seminary. His other interests include NCAA basketball, woodworking, and art.

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