Politics is a divisive topic in our society, especially among Christians. Some Christians believe that they should avoid politics altogether, while others think that they have a duty to influence the political sphere according to their faith. How should Christians approach politics in a way that honors God and serves their neighbors?

The relationship between Christianity and politics is not simple or straightforward. It has been a source of disagreement throughout the history of Christianity, as well as in modern times between different Christian groups¹. However, there are some guiding principles that can help Christians navigate this complex issue with wisdom and grace.

First, Christians should remember their most primary citizenship. As followers of Jesus Christ, they belong to the kingdom of God, which transcends any earthly nation or state. Their ultimate allegiance is to God and his will, not to any human authority or ideology². This does not mean that Christians should ignore or disobey their earthly governments, but rather that they should seek to obey God first and foremost in everything they do.

Second, Christians should choose to be influenced by theology over ideology. Theology is the study of God and his revelation in Scripture, while ideology is a system of ideas and beliefs that shapes one's worldview and actions. Ideology can be helpful or harmful depending on how it aligns with biblical truth. However, ideology can also become idolatrous when it replaces or distorts theology as the basis for one's faith and practice². Christians should always test their political views against the Word of God and be willing to change them if they are found wanting.

Third, Christians should prioritize Christian witness over political power. Political power can be used for good or evil purposes depending on who wields it and how they use it. However, political power can also corrupt those who seek it or possess it by tempting them to compromise their integrity or values for the sake of gaining or maintaining influence². Christians should not seek political power for its own sake, but rather use it as a means to serve others and advance God's kingdom. Moreover, Christians should not rely on political power as their main tool for transforming society; rather they should rely on the gospel of Jesus Christ which has the power to change hearts and minds.

Fourth, Christians should choose influence over susceptibility. Influence is the ability to affect others positively by one's words and actions; susceptibility is the tendency to be affected negatively by others' words and actions². Christians should seek to influence others for Christ by being salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), by speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), by doing good works (Titus 3:, by praying for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-4), by promoting peace and justice (Micah 6:, etc. At the same time,
Christians should resist being susceptible to others' influence when it contradicts God's will or harms their faith; they should guard their hearts (Proverbs 4:23), renew their minds (Romans 12:2), discern spirits (1 John 4:1), test everything (1 Thessalonians 5:21), etc.

Fifth, Christians should trust in God instead of giving into panic. Politics can often cause fear, anxiety,
anger, frustration or despair among people depending on how things are going or what outcomes are expected². However,
Christians have a different perspective than those who do not know God; they have hope because they know that God is sovereign over all things
and that he works all things together for good for those who love him (Romans 8:28). Therefore,
Christians do not need to panic when things seem bad or uncertain; rather
they need to trust in God who holds all things in his hands
and who will accomplish his purposes
in his time
and his way
(Psalm 46).

In conclusion,
politics
and Christianity
are not incompatible
or irrelevant
to each other;
rather
they are interrelated
and important
aspects of life
that require careful consideration
and faithful engagement.
Christians can participate in politics without compromising their faith if they follow these five principles:
remembering their most primary citizenship,
choosing theology over ideology,
prioritizing Christian witness over political power,
choosing influence over susceptibility,
and trusting in God instead of giving into panic.
By doing so,
Christians can honor God,
serve their neighbors,
and make a positive difference
in this world

(1) Christianity and politics - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_and_politics Accessed 05/03/2023.
(2) Christians and Politics: 5 Principles for Christian Interaction with .... https://renew.org/christians-and-politics/ Accessed 05/03/2023.
(3) Pope Benedict XVI on the relationship between Christianity and politics .... https://www.americamagazine.org/politics-society/2023/02/28/pope-benedict-politics-244817 Accessed 05/03/2023.