Staying True to Our Calling: Faith, Politics, and the Kingdom of God

In a world that often pushes us to conform, it's crucial to remember our true identity as followers of Christ. We're not called to blend in with the world, but to stand out as beacons of God's love and truth. Jesus himself warned us, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first." This isn't a call to antagonism, but a reminder that our values may sometimes clash with worldly systems.

When we speak of "the world" in this context, we're not referring to people or the beautiful creation around us. Rather, it's the system of sin and evil controlled by what Scripture calls "the ruler of the kingdom of the air." As believers, we're reminded that we are not of this world, just as Christ is not of it.

This understanding shapes our mission and purpose. While we may engage in various social and charitable works – like helping young people avoid the school-to-prison pipeline or supporting former inmates as they reenter society – our primary identity is as representatives of Christ. Our highest loyalty isn't to any earthly nation, but to God. Our true citizenship is in heaven.

This doesn't mean we should disengage from civic responsibilities. Voting and participating in democratic processes are important. However, our biggest calling is to love God and love our neighbor. We're instructed to pray for our leaders, as the Bible commands, but not with the expectation that political power guarantees righteousness.

The Apostle Paul encouraged believers to pray for their leaders so that "we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." The goal wasn't cultural domination, but creating an environment where the gospel could spread freely. History has shown that both government persecution and political favoritism can be detrimental to the church. Paul's wisdom encourages a balance where believers can practice their faith without compromise.

Consider the prophecy in Isaiah 9:6 about the coming Messiah: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Some misinterpret this to mean Jesus came to rule politically. However, Jesus himself clarified, "My kingdom is not of this world." His rule is spiritual, bringing wisdom, divine power, loving leadership, and true reconciliation.

Unfortunately, some groups focus solely on the "Mighty God" aspect to justify their pursuit of power, while ignoring "Prince of Peace." This distorts Jesus into a symbol of political control rather than spiritual salvation. We see this in movements that promote militant rhetoric, culture wars, and aggressive policies in the name of Christianity. Examples include voting restrictions targeting marginalized communities under the guise of election integrity, or laws discriminating against asylum seekers contrary to Christ's command to welcome strangers.

Prioritizing political power over the gospel distorts Christ's mission. It seeks control instead of redemption. History warns us of the dangers of merging Christianity with nationalism, as seen in medieval theocracies like the Papal States or the Holy Roman Empire. These examples show how nationalism intertwined with faith often leads to oppression and corruption, overshadowing Christ's teachings of humility, justice, and love.

The temptation to seek worldly power is not new. In Matthew 4:8-10, we see Satan tempting Jesus with political authority: "Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 'All this I will give you,' he said, 'if you will bow down and worship me.' Jesus said to him, 'Away from me, Satan! For it is written: "Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only."'" Jesus firmly rejected this offer, making it clear that only God deserves our worship and allegiance.

Even when people tried to force Jesus into a political role, he resisted. John 6:15 tells us, "Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself." He consistently emphasized the spiritual nature of his kingdom, as seen in his statement to Pilate in John 18:36: "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place."

Instead of seeking dominion, Jesus modeled servant leadership. In John 13:12-17, we see him washing his disciples' feet, a task usually reserved for the lowest servants. He then instructs them, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you."

This example of humility and service stands in stark contrast to the pursuit of political power and dominance. Jesus further challenges our natural inclinations by teaching in Matthew 5:44, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." He calls us to build a kingdom based on grace and truth, not force or violence.

The key for believers is to keep Christ at the center, engaging in politics wisely but never making it an idol. We're instructed to "seek first his kingdom and his righteousness," ensuring our hope is in God's eternal plan, not temporary political victories. Jesus showed that real, lasting change comes through the transformative power of the gospel, not through government control or legislation.

Rather than striving for political dominance, we should focus on advancing Christ's kingdom through faith, love, and outreach. This means serving the marginalized, bringing peace to divided communities, and living out Jesus' teachings in our daily lives. When we do this, we reflect His kingdom – one built on grace, truth, and eternal peace.

As citizens of heaven, we must remember that Christ alone is our solid foundation. No political system or national allegiance can replace Him. Our identity in Christ should be unwavering, even when it makes others uncomfortable or goes against societal trends.

In a world of shifting sands and changing allegiances, we stand firm on the rock of our salvation. We're called to be salt and light, to love radically, to serve humbly, and to proclaim the good news of God's kingdom. This is our true calling – not to dominate culture or wield earthly power, but to reflect the love and truth of Jesus Christ in all we do.

May we always remember that our ultimate citizenship is in heaven, and may that knowledge shape our actions, our priorities, and our interactions with the world around us. Let us be known not for our political affiliations or cultural battles, but for our unwavering faith in and devotion to Jesus Christ, the one true King.