Politics and Christianity: Why Laws Matter to Christians

FEBRUARY 20, 2025 BY ARCH KENNEDY

Many Christians wonder about the connection between politics and Christianity, believing faith should remain separate from government affairs. However, as followers of Christ, we cannot ignore the impact that laws and policies have on our ability to live out our faith. The Bible itself provides clear examples of why governing authorities matter and why Christians should be concerned with the direction of their nation.

The Biblical Connection Between Faith and Politics

Politics is ultimately about governing people, setting laws, and creating policies that affect daily life—including our ability to worship, evangelize, and live according to biblical principles. Scripture repeatedly shows that God cares about how nations are governed. In Proverbs 29:2, we are reminded:

“When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.” (NIV)

This verse illustrates that leadership has a direct impact on the well-being of a nation. A government that upholds righteousness allows for a society that flourishes, whereas unrighteous leadership brings oppression and moral decay.

Another example is found in Daniel’s story. He and his friends faced laws that contradicted God’s commands, such as the decree to worship the golden image (Daniel 3) and the law against praying to God (Daniel 6). Their unwavering stand against ungodly policies reminds us that political decisions can directly challenge our faith and convictions.

The Christian’s Responsibility to Law and Policy

Romans 13:1-2 teaches that we are to respect governing authorities because they are instituted by God:

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (NIV)

This passage underscores the importance of law and order, but it also implies that Christians should be invested in the laws being created. If we are called to obey the law, then we should also care about the moral foundation of those laws. Policies on religious freedom, marriage, abortion, and education directly impact how we practice our faith.

Why Christians Should Engage in Politics

1. Defending Biblical Values – Jesus calls us to be the salt and light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). Engaging in politics allows us to influence laws that align with biblical morality, rather than sitting back while secular ideologies shape society.

2. Protecting Religious Freedom – When governments enact laws that restrict religious expression, evangelism and worship can suffer. History shows that when Christians disengage from political discussions, oppressive policies often take root.

3. Loving Our Neighbor – Political decisions affect the poor, the unborn, families, and future generations. Advocating for policies that promote justice, life, and morality is part of loving our neighbors as Christ commanded (Mark 12:31).

Christians cannot afford to be indifferent to politics. Laws and policies shape the moral fabric of our nation and either support or hinder the ability to live out our faith. While our ultimate hope is in Christ, we have a responsibility to stand for righteousness in the public square. As citizens of both Heaven and Earth, we must be informed, engaged, and prayerful about the direction of our nation.

What are your thoughts on the role of Christians in politics? Share in the comments below!