Should Christians Vote in the Election?

A plea to American Christians from a New Zealand Brother.

Another American election is upon us and I do not believe there has ever been so much difference between the essence of the two candidates. The outcome will greatly affect the whole world. I was saddened and more than a little bewildered at the reports I have heard regarding Christians voting in America. Apparently tens of millions of Christians previously have the habit of not voting. More than enough to secure a favorable outcome. Where is our wisdom, where is our discernment? Could this be indifference or even fearful? Do we fear to make a decision because it will make us responsible? What kind of foolishness is this? How can Christians not know they are called to be involved! How can they not thank God for the opportunity to have an influence on so many people in both America and worldwide. What sort of pious nonsense is it that Christians might consider themselves above voting? What twisting of Scripture could possibly encourage this? We are instructed to love one another and to live that out. If we see harm we are not to ignore it. If we see hurt we are to do what we can as good Samaritans for others. This election is not just for individuals it is for the World. It is not just for personal pride of stance but for our fellow man created in the image of God, our fellow believers and unbelievers.

We are not called to hold a “What will be will be” philosophy. We are called to be preservatives (salt) and shine the light given to us. ( Matt 5.13-14) We are called to take action where it is given to us to do so. Father I pray we lose no more saltiness.

Donald Trump has stated he is not a Christian … so what! Does this mean we are to distance ourselves from him? Does not the Scripture say we are to be connected to leaders through prayer for them.

1 Timothy 2. 1First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— 2for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. 3This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Part of the reason is stated here … so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. And as stated … this is pleasing to God.

There are so many important things that are on the ballot this election. I would like to point out one of the most important … FREEDOM of speech. This is so important and that is why principalities and powers are trying desperately to extinguish it worldwide! (Ephesians 6.12) It is clear to me that the World is racing down a dark path and we must wake up and do anything we can to keep the light of free speech flickering as long as possible so that THE GOSPEL CAN GO FORTH! You can be certain that our enemy has always sought to hinder this. And now the World is unifying in purpose to hinder the Gospel.

Can you do anything to help the spread of the Gospel? Yes you can. You can use your vote to influence this best you can. Be aware and vote to retain best as possible the freedom of speech. Try to keep the light flickering. Vote for the Gospel and power of God to be unhindered. And with your voting – pray as we are instructed by the Lord…

2 Thessalonians 3.1 Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you,

Do what you can. Aim to put works to your faith for the sake of others. Put your talent in the bank! This you can do!

In Matthew 25.14-35 there is a parable about how we use our given abilities.  As for me I am well aware I do very little for the Lord in return for all He has given me. I wish I could do more. Perhaps you might feel this also. I am not trying to directly apply or teach this parable but only to point out a principle it contains. That principle is to not be afraid, and to step out and do what you can with what has been given. You American Christians have been given the blessing to live where you do. You have been given the opportunity to have a say and be counted. Use this for the Lord as His representative.

Do not be paralyzed and afraid of making a mistake. God does not want us like this. He wants us involved. He is a God who wants to bless.

Matthew 25. 25so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. ……. 27Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest.

So I will be clear and plain … Go out and vote. Not for Donald Trump but for the freedom of speech which he is much more likely to protect which allows us to preach the Gospel. Do not forget it is in that Gospel where Gods power is (Romans 1.16) that is what you can do to take part in this warfare of the Kingdom. That is what you can do towards the Work God is doing in the Earth. That is how you can use your talent for growth and return to the Master if but only in a little way. Put it towards the benefit that others might bring. Towards the better Government of the two options. If you are unsure of whom to vote for then simply ask God. He is a Good Father. As we can in all situations. Ask, seek and knock. (Matthew 7.7-8)  I would like to suggest to you that knocking in this process could be likened to the action of voting. Ask for guidance, seek for His insight and then vote in obedience. Then watch to see what the Lord will open.

I would leave you with one thought and Scripture. This World is not our home, we look for another place which is eternal. Even though we are not of it, we are still in it and what we do counts.

The world is growing darker indeed and the light more noticeable. Some would say they feel elements of Babylon rising. Gods people found themselves here once before in history. Surrounded by ungodliness. They were in effect in it but not of it. And what did God tell them to do? Did He say close up the ranks? Huddle together and cut your selves off? No. This is what He said …

Jeremiah 29. 4This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says to all the exiles who were carried away from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5“Build houses and settle down. Plant gardens and eat their produce. 6Take wives and have sons and daughters. Take wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Multiply there; do not decrease. 7Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

Indeed this was Israel but what happened to Her is for our learning and warning (1 Corinthians 10.11-12)

Did you catch the principle … 7Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

I believe for any Christian who studies the situation the decision is clear. I would not presume to tell you what to do but I ask you from my point of view for my sake and the sake of so many others, please go not and vote for Donald Trump. Do not be indifferent.

Yours in Christ.

Brother Matthew from New Zealand.

Father, Hallowed be thy Name, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

Amen