Dr. Stephen Phinney
Does Jesus Christ expect self-proclaimed Christians to vote? Is His will dependent on such voting? Do the End Times hinge on voting?
The answer to all those questions is an absolute “no.” However, there is an expectation coming from God that those who do choose to vote must vote with the integrity of the mind of Christ.
Voting is a serious matter. IOM America contends that it is the duty and responsibility of every born-again indwelt Christian who chooses to vote to support leaders who minimally promote Biblical principles – preferably leaders who claim Jesus Christ as their savior. While we should know that God is sovereignly in control no matter the outcome, well-informed voting could, and should, advance His Holy will. Simply checking a “blue” or “red” box is irresponsible. However, since 67% of self-proclaimed Christians do not read their Bibles, they are lost in knowing God’s position on demonic issues that advance the up-and-coming global leader’s agenda. Can your vote stop these demonic ideological eschatological plans of the enemy? No, your vote will not.
The motive for Christians to vote should not hinge on “stopping” the enemy. The motive should be if we decide to vote, our vote should express the integrity of the Word of God. No soldier of Christ should entangle themselves in the affairs of everyday life. The key word is “entangled” – be entwined, tangles up.
You therefore, my son, be strong in the Grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. (2 Timothy 2:1-4)
The believer’s loyalty should be to the One who enlisted us as a soldier of the Cross, Jesus Christ. He sent us into the world to minister the Grace and Truth of our commanding officer in a world that is imploding at every turn. We all must be willing to suffer the hardship the world inflicts upon us with an overwhelming mission of Grace.
In light of politics and leadership, there is evidence in Scripture that God has been displeased with our leadership choices at times (Hosea 8:4). The evidence of the upcoming Antichrist’s grip on this world is everywhere in every country. Much of the suffering on earth is because of godless leadership (Proverbs 28:12). The Word of God gives believers instructions to obey legitimate authority unless it contradicts the Lord’s commands (Acts 5:27-29; Romans 13:1-7). When we look through the window of government policies, we can easily see much of what they are propagating is against the Lord’s Life principles. If we do not support their views, decisions, and actions that rise against God’s constitution, it is our responsibility NOT to vote to advance their ideologies further. In America, we are given the freedom, at least today, to choose leaders who will be themselves led by Jesus Christ and the Creator (1 Samuel 12:13-25). Candidates themselves, and their proposals, that violate the Bible’s commands for life, family, marriage, or faith should never be supported – in any way (Proverbs 14:34). If believers choose to vote as led through prayer, studying the Word of God and through the indwelling mind of Christ, we must choose wisely. While your vote might count for a particular leader, for your vote to count for the Kingdom of God, you and I must vote for advancing the Life principles contained within the Word of God.
Let’s face the facts. In many countries in this world, Christianity, minimal believers are oppressed and persecuted daily for their beliefs. They suffer under governments that hate their loyalty to Jesus Christ. Why should America be any different? It has already been demonstrated that our country's Christian voice is being silenced. Since we presently have the freedom to vote, we probably should. However, when that freedom is taken away, we must brace for a type of expression that all the first-generation believers had to face –extending the Grace of Jesus Christ in a governmental system that will NOT allow “those Christians” to vote. These believers preach the gospel of Jesus Christ at the risk of their own lives. I believe these believers “get it.” It isn’t about voting in or voting out leaders but staying focused on advancing the message of Grace and Life to a world that finds hope in policy changes.
Today, all Americans maintain the privilege to vote. So – why not use this method to sustain the candidates who honor and support the Word of God? Sorry to cut this short, but I am off to the voting polls. Consider watching this short video, and then pray about the opportunity to place your vote.
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