Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk

1. Politics matter because they impact people's lives

Politics matter because politics impact policies that ultimately impact people.

Civic engagement is crucial. As Christians, we cannot pretend to transcend politics and simply "preach the gospel" if we truly want to love our neighbors. Political decisions have real-world consequences, especially for marginalized communities. Engaging in the political process is part of our responsibility to care for others and pursue justice.

Politics shape society. While government is not the solution to all societal problems, it plays a significant role in shaping our communities. Policies affect areas such as:

• Poverty and economic inequality
• Healthcare access
• Education
• Criminal justice
• Immigration
• Environmental stewardship

By participating in politics, we have the opportunity to influence these crucial issues and work towards a more just society that reflects God's love for all people.

2. Christians should engage in politics without compromising their faith

To be a faithful Christian is to embrace tension.

Navigate complexity with wisdom. As followers of Christ, we are called to be "in the world but not of it." This means engaging in politics while maintaining our primary allegiance to God's kingdom. We must avoid the extremes of complete withdrawal from politics or blind loyalty to any political party or leader.

Seek biblical guidance. When approaching political issues, Christians should:

• Study Scripture for wisdom on justice, compassion, and human dignity
• Pray for discernment and guidance
• Evaluate policies based on how they align with biblical values
• Be willing to criticize leaders and parties when they contradict Christian principles
• Remember that no political entity fully represents God's kingdom

Engaging in politics as a Christian requires nuance, humility, and a willingness to wrestle with difficult questions. Our faith should inform our political views, not the other way around.

3. Avoid being a jerk in political discussions and actions

There is a distinction between being passionate about our convictions and being mean spirited and jerks.

Practice civil discourse. Political discussions often become heated and divisive. As Christians, we are called to a higher standard of communication, even with those we disagree with. This means:

• Listening to understand, not just to respond
• Avoiding personal attacks or demonizing opponents
• Acknowledging the complexity of issues
• Being willing to admit when we're wrong or don't have all the answers

Embody Christ-like character. Our political engagement should reflect the fruit of the Spirit:

• Love
• Joy
• Peace
• Patience
• Kindness
• Goodness
• Faithfulness
• Gentleness
• Self-control

By maintaining a respectful and humble attitude, we can have more productive conversations and be better witnesses for Christ in the political sphere.

4. Listen actively and build bridges across political divides

If you spend five minutes with your worst enemy—it doesn't have to be about race, it could be about anything ... you will find that you both have something in common.

Seek understanding. In our polarized society, it's crucial to actively listen to those with different political views. This means:

• Asking questions to understand their perspective
• Suspending judgment and truly hearing their concerns
• Finding common ground and shared values

Create opportunities for dialogue. Initiatives like "Make America Dinner Again" and "Ask A..." demonstrate the power of face-to-face conversations across political lines. These interactions help:

• Humanize political opponents
• Break down stereotypes and assumptions
• Foster empathy and mutual understanding

By building relationships with those who think differently, we can work towards more collaborative solutions and reduce the toxic polarization in our society.

5. Focus on the kingdom of God, not earthly political allegiances

No one has a monopoly on the kingdom of God.

Prioritize eternal values. While political engagement is important, our primary allegiance must be to God's kingdom. This means:

• Evaluating policies and leaders through the lens of biblical principles
• Avoiding idolizing any political party or figure
• Being willing to critique and challenge our own "side" when necessary

Embrace kingdom diversity. God's kingdom transcends political and national boundaries. We should:

• Recognize the global and diverse nature of the Church
• Seek unity with fellow believers across political lines
• Work towards justice and flourishing for all people, not just our own group

By keeping our focus on God's kingdom, we can maintain perspective and avoid being consumed by partisan battles or temporary political victories.

6. Live out your convictions through informed action and advocacy

The most powerful message one will ever deliver is a faithful life.

Educate yourself. To be effective advocates, Christians must:

• Study issues in-depth, beyond surface-level talking points
• Seek out diverse and credible sources of information
• Understand the complexities and nuances of policy debates

Take practical action. Living out our convictions means more than just voting. Consider:

• Volunteering for organizations addressing important issues
• Contacting elected officials about legislation
• Participating in peaceful protests or demonstrations
• Using your skills and resources to serve your community

Share your story. Personal experiences and testimonies can be powerful tools for advocacy. By sharing how policies impact real people, we can humanize issues and inspire others to get involved.

7. Be discerning of manipulation and misinformation in politics

Well-informed citizens rarely get played or manipulated.

Develop media literacy. In today's information landscape, it's crucial to:

• Fact-check claims and verify sources
• Be aware of bias in news outlets and social media
• Recognize emotional manipulation tactics in political messaging
• Seek out diverse perspectives on issues

Think critically. Avoid knee-jerk reactions to political news or controversies. Instead:

• Take time to research and reflect before forming opinions
• Consider the motivations behind political messaging
• Be willing to change your mind when presented with new evidence

Guard against tribalism. It's easy to fall into an "us vs. them" mentality in politics. Resist this by:

• Acknowledging good ideas from those you disagree with
• Avoiding demonizing entire groups of people
• Recognizing the complexity of most political issues

By developing discernment, we can engage more thoughtfully and avoid being manipulated by political rhetoric or misinformation.

8. Exercise your right to vote and raise your voice for justice

To vote is to have a voice in our laws, a voice in our representation, a voice to select the future we desire.

Participate in democracy. Voting is a crucial way to influence society and pursue justice. As Christians, we should:

• Register to vote and stay informed about elections
• Research candidates and ballot measures thoroughly
• Consider how policies align with biblical values of justice and compassion

Advocate for the vulnerable. Beyond voting, we are called to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. This can involve:

• Contacting elected officials about issues affecting marginalized communities
• Supporting organizations working for justice and human rights
• Using our platforms and influence to raise awareness about important issues

Engage locally. While national politics often get the most attention, local engagement is crucial. Consider:

• Attending city council meetings
• Volunteering for local campaigns or initiatives
• Getting involved in community organizations addressing social issues

By exercising our democratic rights and responsibilities, we can work towards a more just and compassionate society.

9. Love God and love people, even those with different views

Jesus loves not only you but also those who disagree with you.

Embody Christ's love. Our political engagement should be characterized by love, even for those we disagree with. This means:

• Treating political opponents with respect and dignity
• Seeking the well-being of all people, not just our own group
• Being willing to listen and show empathy to those with different views

Pursue reconciliation. In a divided society, Christians can be agents of healing. This involves:

• Building relationships across political lines
• Finding common ground on shared values
• Working together on issues where there is agreement

Remember our shared humanity. Everyone, regardless of political affiliation, is made in God's image. We should:

• Avoid dehumanizing language or stereotypes
• Look for opportunities to serve and show kindness to those with different views
• Pray for those we disagree with, including political leaders

By embodying Christ's love, we can be a powerful witness in a polarized world and work towards greater unity and understanding.

10. Remember that Jesus remains King, regardless of political outcomes

Whoever becomes President, Jesus remains King.

Maintain eternal perspective. While political engagement is important, we must remember that God's kingdom transcends earthly politics. This means:

• Trusting in God's sovereignty, even when elections don't go our way
• Avoiding placing ultimate hope in political leaders or parties
• Remembering that our primary citizenship is in heaven

Live with hope and courage. Knowing that Jesus is ultimately in control should empower us to:

• Engage in politics without fear or despair
• Stand firm for justice and truth, even when it's unpopular
• Maintain joy and peace in the midst of political turmoil

Embody kingdom values. As representatives of Christ's kingdom, we should:

• Prioritize love, mercy, and justice in our political engagement
• Seek first the kingdom of God, rather than earthly power or influence
• Be willing to sacrifice personal or political gain for the sake of following Jesus

By keeping our focus on Christ's kingship, we can navigate the complexities of politics with wisdom, courage, and hope.

Last updated: November 20, 2024