Regardless of our political alignment, there’s a shared acknowledgment that the recent Conservative governments have had to navigate some of the most challenging political decisions since the Second World War, including a global pandemic and Brexit. As many people are marking their ballots, two pertinent questions arise. Should Christians participate in voting? And, more broadly, should Christians be involved in politics?
God’s Sovereignty in World Affairs
Firstly, it's essential to recognise that God is deeply interested in the affairs of this world (Acts 17:28). He is not a distant deity who wound up the cogs of human existence only to let them run their course without intervention. The Bible tells us that God sets up leaders and deposes them,
“Daniel answered and said: “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding” (Daniel 2:20-21 ESV).
God also directs the hearts of rulers like streams of water (Proverbs 21:1). The choice of Britain’s next Prime Minister and government is ultimately a choice made in heaven (Romans 13:1). This does not mean God endorses every decision made by political leaders; He champions the cause of the poor and oppressed (Psalm 82:3) and desires that those in authority uphold righteousness.
“The God of Israel has spoken; the Rock of Israel has said to me: When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God, he dawns on them like the morning light, like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth” (2 Samuel 23:3-4 ESV).
Theological Perspectives on Political Involvement
Christians’ responses to politics often reflect their theological views, in particular their eschatology, that is, their beliefs about future events. There are three main schools of thought:
Premillennialism: The belief that Jesus Christ will return before a literal thousand-year reign on earth. Premillennialists often view political involvement as secondary since they believe true righteous government will only be established during the Millennium.
Amillennialism: The view that there will be no literal thousand-year reign; instead, Christ’s return will usher in the eternal state directly. Many evangelical Christians hold this view.
Postmillennialism: The belief that the gospel will ultimately convert the world, leading to a period of peace and righteousness before Christ’s return. Postmillennialists are more likely to encourage political activism as part of their gospel mission.
These theological perspectives shape whether Christians see political involvement as a vital part of their faith or a temporary and lesser priority.
Biblical Guidance on Voting
The Bible teaches that while God’s sovereignty is paramount, human responsibility is not negated. For example, Paul instructed Roman Christians to “be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13:1). In countries like Britain, where voting is not legally required (unlike in Australia[1]), Christians have the liberty to vote or abstain as a matter of conscience.
Addressing Concerns About Voting
One concern some Christians have is the fear of voting against God’s will. This view overlooks the full biblical teaching on God’s sovereignty. God’s purposes may involve allowing a less righteous ruler to accomplish His plans (Proverbs 16:4), yet this does not excuse Christians from voting according to their conscience. A vote for a candidate who upholds biblical righteousness is not sinful and is within the liberty given to Christians.
The Example of Jesus and the Apostles
The New Testament shows that Jesus and the apostles were not politically active in the traditional sense. Despite the many injustices of the Roman government, Jesus did not lead a political revolution. Instead, the apostles sought to effect social change through preaching the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20), aiming for God’s glory and eternal blessings rather than temporary political gains. Real societal change is best served by focusing on gospel preaching and the health of the local church.
Conclusion
Today, if you feel compelled to vote for a candidate who you believe will uphold righteous standards and care for the poor, Scripture does not prohibit you from doing so. However, remember that lasting societal reform comes through the preaching of the gospel and will only be fully realised when Jesus establishes His government on earth (Revelation 20:1-4). Whether or not you choose to vote, let your actions reflect a commitment to God’s sovereignty and a dedication to preaching His love and truth to a lost world.
[1] https://www.aec.gov.au/about_aec/publications/voting/
