In last week’s article we considered Bible passages that emphasize our duty to properly influence society. Though we may not often consider its value, this influence can also be exerted in our civic duties. According to Romans 13:1-7, God has ordained both the concept and function of civil government. As plainly stated in this passage, the role of God-ordained government is to praise those who do what is right, and punish those who do evil. “Praise” involves protection, for Paul availed himself of the protective services of Roman authorities (Acts 21; 22). The “punishment” of the passage extends even to the practice of capital punishment, for civil authorities “do not bear the sword in vain.”
A God-ordained government creates an atmosphere that allows people “to lead quiet and peaceful lives in all godliness and honesty” (1 Timothy 2:1, 2). This means thatChristians should be motivated to cultivate such a government. Bible students should speak out, for they are the ones that best understand critical moral and fiscal issues. They know that abortion, homosexuality (incl. gay marriage), theft (incl. confiscatory taxation), idolatry (incl. green-movement earth worship) and social welfare to able-bodied people are all wrong (Psalm 139:13-16; Romans 1:26, 27; 1 Corinthians 6:10; Romans 1:22, 23; 2 Thessalonians 3:10). Bible readers also understand then the planet earth was made for the sustenance and support of humans, not the other way around (Genesis 1:28).
Christians and Bible believers should inform and warn others, and yes, they should vote in support of likeminded and conscientious people.
Tim Haile