Why Every Christian Has Dual CitizenshipSample

Christians should be good citizens in service to God

We give our service to our country as God directs. Churches are not to be political organizations, endorsing or supporting political candidates. But Christians are to be fully engaged in political and public leadership. Daniel lived with excellence while in exile in the pagan Babylonian empire, using his gifts in the administration of a pagan country.

We each have talents and callings in our lives, and, for some, this calling leads them into politics. While Christian politicians will differ from one another in their political views, the Bible still equally applies to their lives. They must love, strive for truth, lead with humility, etc. Christian politicians should rule wisely, for God’s glory, while at the same time not equating their specific policies to God's infallible will (Psalm 2:10–12).

In our political engagement, we are to “speak the truth to one another” (Zechariah 8:16; cf. Ephesians 4:25). After praying for God to “lead [us] in your truth” (Psalm 25:5), we measure our opinions and those of others by biblical revelation, reason, and accountability to the community of faith.

We should ask about our political conversations: Are we “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15)?

So, during an election, which candidate do I endorse as a pastor?

Neither.

I should not and will not use my position as a minister to support a political candidate or party. I will resist vehemently any effort to polarize our church around a political agenda. Our job as believers is to be salt and light in a nation desperate for both, to pray for our leaders and our nation during these crucial days, and to give witness to our faith with our words and works.

During an election, which candidate should you choose?

• Pray hard.
• Search your heart as the Spirit leads you.
• Make the decision you believe most honors God and fulfills His will for you.
• Then support whoever is elected with your prayers and encouragement.

And never forget that your highest allegiance is not to a person but to your Master.

In the first century, they didn’t have the ability to choose their leaders—it was essentially a dictatorship at the highest level.

In all we say and do, we should seek to honor our Father and draw others to Him. Scripture is clear: “Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Jesus said we would “be” His witnesses (Acts 1:8), a calling that encompasses our private and public lives.

We should ask of our political engagement: Will this honor Jesus and lead others to Him?

The writer Robert Brault noted, “We are kept from our goal, not by obstacles but by a clear path to a lesser goal.” By contrast, Paul testified, “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14).

What is your “upward call” in your country today?

How can you serve with excellence and for God’s glory in your context?

How can you point people back to Jesus in your workplace?