Election 2024
As we near the election on November 5, I am reminded that followers of Jesus are called to be salt and light in our culture (Matthew 5:13-16). One way we can do that is by engaging in the political process and voting. As we seek to be salt and light, let me share two of my primary desires as a pastor and three biblical principles that can help us be faithful in this election season.
Two Desires:
- I desire to see more Christians who think more biblically about all of life, including how they vote. I agree with Martyn Lloyd-Jones, the 20th-century pastor in London, who said, “So if the church is anxious that her teaching should permeate the life of society, the quickest and the shortest way to accomplish that…is to produce a large number of Christians. And how is that done? By preaching the pure Gospel, by preaching a Gospel that can convert people.” (Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home, and Work, p30).
a - I desire that our church be so rooted in Christ that we will be faithful regardless of the outcome of the election or the consequences of it. As John Piper has said, “My main calling is…to help the church be the church. I want to help the church be the radical outpost of the kingdom of Christ, no matter what kind of America it happens to be in or any other people group or country in the world” (Tony Reinke, Ask Pastor John, p51).
Three Principles:
- Think about the issues biblically. Consider what God has said about the relevant issues and then consider how the party platforms compare to his standard of what is right and good.
2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:2).
- You can read the Republican party platform here
- You can read the Democratic party platform here
- You can read Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver’s platform here
- You can read Independent candidate Cornel West’s platform here
- You can read Socialist candidate Claudi de le Cruz’s platform here
- You can read Green Party candidate Jill Stein’s platform here
- Government exists to promote good and restrain evil. Consider which candidate will promote the most good (as defined by God) and restrain the most evil (as defined by God).
13 Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good (1 Peter 2:13-14).
- Honor and pray for our leaders.
17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor (1 Peter 2:17).
1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
As citizens of heaven, with our minds set on the things above and our hope firmly in Christ, let’s engage in the political process in ways that will honor the Lord and be good for everyone affected by the outcome!
Hurricane Relief
I am thankful for the ways our church has responded to the needs caused by Hurricane Helene. Many donated supplies which were delivered to the Augusta area. We have also had teams travel to affected areas to clean up fallen trees, with more teams scheduled to go in the days ahead.
If you would like to give toward the relief efforts or go with a team to help clean up, you can find details on our website here.
With the affection of Christ,
