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Values Based Voting/Part Three:// War, Christian Participation in Government, & Final Notes…

Saturday, October 25, 2008 by Brandon Stewart

WE ENCOURAGE all Christians to embrace their citizenship not merely as a duty and privilege, but as an opportunity to meaningfully participate in building a culture of life. Every voice matters in the public forum. Every vote counts. Every act of responsible citizenship is an exercise of significant individual power. Our position as Christians on issues should first and foremost be congruent with scripture, our opinions shaped by and submitted to a Biblical worldview. At the same time, we believe that honest discussion and participation in the election process should be positive and uplifting.

"Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don’t see things the way you do. And don’t jump all over them every time they say or do something you don’t agree with – even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently." Romans 14:1msg



WE BELIEVE that Christians should be values based voters. We are to take our duty as Christians seriously, and as Americans to value the freedom God has given us. We believe Christians should take the time to research the candidates carefully, to weigh their positions against a Biblical viewpoint, and to vote responsibly.

"Submission to authority and co-responsibility for the common good make it morally obligatory to pay taxes, to exercise the right to vote, and to defend one's country." Rom 13:7msg

"It’s wrong, very wrong, to go along with injustice." Proverbs 24:23


WE BELIEVE that Christians should choose to vote for the greater good of society. We believe that voting should not be based on selfish self interest, but that each decision should be thought out in terms of who will bring the greater good.

"Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order it is God’s order. So live responsibly as a citizen. If you are irresponsible to the state, then you are irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible. Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you are trying to get by with something." Romans 13:1-4msg

"That’s also why you pay taxes – so that an orderly way of life can be maintained. Fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, and respect your leaders." Romans 13:6-7msg


WE BELIEVE that war should not be entered into lightly. We believe that the “power of the sword” lies with the government and not with the church. We believe that it should be our earnest duty to pray for those in positions of leadership and authority who must make these decisions. We believe that we should support the cause of freedom throughout the world. We believe that we should respect and honor those who have and are giving their time and lives for the cause of freedom.



WE BELIEVE that prayer is not only a freedom and privilege to be exercised it is a conduit for change through which we can seek direction in making God-driven choices.

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My final notes...
In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel constantly found themselves in trouble when they looked for a savior outside of the Lord. The Israelites regularly would establish other gods...or even political figures...in which they placed their hope for protection, provision, victory in battle, and leadership. This ultimately led to them not recognizing Jesus, because they were looking for a political king (and Jesus came to establish a different Kingdom).

At the end of the day...when the election is over...let's remember who deserves our ultimate faith and confidence. Above a political leader or party, let's seek for the will of God to be done in our nation at this time.

And commit with me to pray for our leaders, both current, as well as those to be elected. Our country needs great leadership for the days ahead.

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