We are blessed to live in a country with the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of a constitutional republic.  Many have given their lives, and others continue to sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy.  Unfortunately, the country's current cultural and political climate is terribly polarized.  The cosmic divide stretches from D.C. to our kitchen tables at times.  The country has experienced this kind of turmoil before, but it is particularly harsh and delicate.  With this in mind, we turn to the Lord and consider the church's role in the coming days and months.

Individually, each member should take a positive, active part in the leadership and influence of civil government.  The country needs those who hold Christian beliefs to support the values that reflect a Biblical worldview.  Likewise, the Scripture says believers are to be subject to the governing authorities, “for there is no authority except that which God has established…they are God’s servants” (Romans 13).  It was no small thing for the apostle to write this as the church was under persecution.

As a church body, we will pray together for our government and the Lord to be glorified in the country.  On the other hand, we will not endorse a political party or candidate for office.  Consider the following reasons for this approach:

1)         The Scripture is clear that, as the church, we are ambassadors of faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20).  This means each local congregation acts as an embassy of the kingdom of God to the world.  From Washington to London, from Moscow to Beijing, wherever a local body of believers gather congregationally, they represent the kingdom of God on earth.

Jesus famously told Pilate during his trial, “...my kingdom is not of this world…my kingdom is from another place” (John 18:36).  One day, according to Revelation 11:15, the kingdom of the world will become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever.  Meanwhile, our focus as a church is to spread the good news of the kingdom to everyone possible—this includes members of every political party and those who do not associate with one.

2)         In a time full of internet trolling, malicious sound bites, and unhinged emotion, the church, more than ever, can be the fragrance of Christ to the Lord and those who are being saved.  Like the apostles, “…we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing” (2 Corinthians 2:14-17).  Far be it from us to allow anything but Christ himself to be a stumbling block to an unbelieving world (1 Corinthians 1:23).

3)         The church is instructed to petition, pray, intercede, and give thanks for all of those in authority that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.  This highlights the Great Commission of the church.  It is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and come to know the truth (1 Timothy 2).  The church rises above it all in a society polarized by political viewpoints.  We are the light of the world—a town built on a hill that cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14).

How do we apply these values?  As a church, we focus on Christ and his gospel.  We lift up the Word of God and enjoy the Scripture when we come together in our small groups and worship gatherings.  We talk about our love for our Savior and walk in a way that honors him.  As we seek to share Christ, we remember his words to disciples:  "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.  And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:19-20).