12 Rules of Political Engagement for Christians

1. God First - God’s truth is always above man’s opinions. Reevaluate your political positions with the Bible in hand.

2. Others Second - We must put the needs of others before our own agendas. We can better love our neighbors with tangible actions rather than just trusting in our cast ballot.

3. Self Less - We need humility in all our communications and attitudes.  Before we post or speak we should consider the tone and approach we choose.  Our daily decisions should demonstrate a care for those different than us.

4. Default to Non-Partisan - Unless our profession requires it, most Christians should strongly consider the wisdom of being publicly nonpartisan.  In these divisive times it may be best to stay away from partisan political posts, rallies, posters, yard signs, and headgear.

5. Your Vote Is Important - You have the responsibility and privilege to be politically informed and go to the polls whenever you have the opportunity.

6. Private Persuasion Is Often Better - Some issues deserve our public discussion and commentary. More may be gained through private, personal conversations without the rhetoric found in many public forums.

7. Humble & Respectful Disagreement - We are all created in the image of God.  We ought to speak kindly to all with the reminder that no-one is beyond the life-changing hope of Christ.  We must love our political “enemies.”

8. Avoid Absolutes - Recognize our temptation towards sound bites and the demonization of others.  Avoid over-simplifying situations and categorizing groups with stereotypes.

9. Pray More than You Speak - We often fall into the trap of believing that our voices to mankind make a bigger difference than our prayers to the Creator of the Universe.  Prayer is our primary political calling.

10. Share the Gospel More than Your Political Persuasions - Elections and governments come and go.  True and lasting hope is only found in the Kingdom of God through Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.  Live and speak in light of these priorities.  Be more passionate about winning souls than winning arguments or elections.

11. Resist as a Last Resort - Rare biblical and historical examples exist to show and prepare us for times where courageous rebellion is called for in order to remain faithful to God.  The broad biblical guidance is to honor and submit to the authorities whenever possible.

12. The 1% Exception - Although 99-ish% of us should probably be nonpartisan monarchists (prioritizing the Kingdom of God), 1% of us may be called by God into service within a partisan political sphere.  If that is you, please stay faithful to God’s truths in your policies and platforms no matter the personal cost. Speak to the good, without flattery or partiality, in both parties.  Confront the bad, with love and humility, in both parties.  Practice the fruits of the Holy Spirit at all times towards your political opponents talking with “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22).

  • 2 Timothy 2:4 “No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.”

  • Colossians 3:2 “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

  • Galatians 6:14 “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”

2 Chronicles 7:14 “if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land”

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