Faith in Politics: Should Christians Get Involved?

Christian man casting his vote at an American polling station

Why Should Christians Get Involved in Politics?

In the modern world, politics is often seen as dirty, divisive, and far removed from faith, but faith in politics is essential for Christians today. Many Christians have been taught that politics and religion should remain separate—that the church should stay out of the “worldly” affairs of government. This belief has caused many to disengage from politics altogether, allowing those with opposing values to take the lead.

But what if the Bible calls us to engage in the political process, not avoid it? What if Christians are needed in the political arena more than ever to bring godly wisdom and influence to a society that desperately needs it?

Christians are called to be salt and light in a dark world (Matthew 5:13-16). This includes every area of life, including politics. While we are not called to political idolatry, we are called to participate in the government to ensure that our society is governed in a way that reflects God’s justice, mercy, and truth. The Bible makes it clear that laws and political systems affect us personally, and as followers of Christ, we must take part in the process to ensure that those laws align with our Christian values. If you’d like to explore how biblical truth intersects with today’s culture, check out Biblical Truth vs. Cultural Relativism.

The Myth of “Separation of Church and State”

One of the most commonly cited reasons Christians avoid politics is the belief in a strict “separation of church and state.” However, this idea is not grounded in the U.S. Constitution. The phrase was first coined by Thomas Jefferson in 1802 in a letter to the Danbury Baptist Association, where he reassured them that the government would not establish a state-sponsored religion. However, this was never intended to prevent religious influence in public life, especially in politics.

In fact, the Founding Fathers of the United States were deeply influenced by their Christian faith and the teachings of the Bible when drafting the Constitution and creating the government. The idea that faith should remain completely separate from politics is not what the Constitution intended, nor is it what the Bible teaches. In Romans 13:1, Paul writes, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.”

Rather than avoiding politics, Christians should be actively engaged in shaping the culture, ensuring that laws and policies reflect God’s justice and truth. The idea that Christians must remain silent or avoid political engagement altogether is a false dichotomy that does not align with scripture.

Biblical Examples of Political Engagement

Throughout the Bible, we see that God’s people were often placed in positions of political power and influence. Their involvement in the political process was not only allowed but often ordained by God to bring about His purposes.

Joseph – A God-Fearing Leader in a Pagan System

Joseph is one of the most powerful examples of a Christian in a position of authority in a pagan society. In Genesis 41, Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams, predicting a seven-year famine. Pharaoh then places him in charge of the nation’s resources, making him the second most powerful person in Egypt. Joseph did not compromise his faith to hold this powerful position; instead, he used his influence to save lives and protect his people during the famine.

Joseph’s story demonstrates that God can place His people in positions of political authority to achieve His purposes. Christians in positions of influence can work for the greater good, ensuring that godly values shape the direction of society.

Daniel – Uncompromising in Babylon

Daniel, too, serves as a powerful example of godly political engagement. Despite being in Babylon, a pagan empire, Daniel rose to high office and served multiple kings. He remained faithful to God, even when the political authorities demanded that he worship foreign gods. Daniel refused, remaining true to God’s commands (Daniel 3:16-18). His unwavering faith in God led to him being promoted to a high position of influence.

Daniel’s life shows that political systems may be corrupt, but God can still use believers in those systems to bring about change and justice. Christians must be bold, just as Daniel was, in standing firm for their beliefs in the face of political opposition.

Esther – Political Advocacy at Great Risk

Esther’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of political engagement for Christians. In the Book of Esther, Queen Esther used her position of influence to save her people from genocide. She bravely approached King Xerxes to intervene on behalf of the Jewish people, even though doing so could have cost her life.

Esther’s courage reminds us that we are placed in positions of influence for such a time as this (Esther 4:14). Christians today, especially those in leadership positions, have a responsibility to advocate for justice, protect the vulnerable, and defend truth in their communities and countries.

Paul – Leveraging Roman Law for the Gospel

The Apostle Paul’s involvement with the political system is another example for us to follow. As a Roman citizen, Paul had legal rights that he used strategically to advance the Gospel. In Acts 25:11, Paul appeals to Caesar, using his rights as a Roman citizen to ensure that he would stand trial in a fair court. Through his interactions with Roman authorities, Paul was able to spread the message of Christ and influence the political powers of his day.

Paul’s example teaches us that Christians should not shy away from using political and legal systems to promote justice and advocate for religious freedoms. By doing so, we can further God’s Kingdom and ensure that His truth prevails in the public square.

Why Laws Affect Us Personally and Why Christians Must Engage

Laws are not neutral; they are a reflection of a society’s values. The laws passed by government bodies have a direct impact on our daily lives, and if Christians do not engage in the political process, we risk having to live under laws that contradict our faith.

Laws Affect Our Families

Today, laws regarding abortion, same-sex marriage, and religious freedom are some of the most debated topics. These laws not only affect us personally but also affect our families and communities. If Christians are not engaged in the political process, we will continue to see laws enacted that directly oppose biblical teachings.

For example, the legalization of abortion in the U.S. has led to the deaths of millions of innocent children. Christians must actively work to change laws that promote abortion and protect the sanctity of life. In the same way, Christians must advocate for the preservation of marriage as defined in Genesis 2:24—a union between one man and one woman.

Laws Affect Our Religious Freedom

The government’s stance on religious freedom is another critical issue. Laws that restrict religious expression or prohibit the practice of faith in the public sphere are a direct challenge to Christians. If we do not engage in politics, we risk losing the freedom to worship freely and live out our faith in the world. Christians in the public sphere must fight for these freedoms to ensure that future generations can live according to biblical values.

Practical Ways Christians Can Engage in Politics

As Christians, we have a responsibility to engage in the political process. Here are some practical ways to get involved:

Pray for Leaders – In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul encourages us to pray for those in authority. We should pray for wisdom, justice, and humility for our leaders, regardless of political affiliation.
Vote Biblically – Voting is one of the most powerful ways to influence the political process. Christians must vote according to biblical principles, supporting candidates who advocate for the sanctity of life, marriage, and religious freedom.
Advocate for Christian Values – Christians can advocate for godly laws and policies by attending town halls, contacting representatives, and supporting organizations that promote biblical values in government.
Consider Running for Office – If God is calling you to political office, consider running for local, state, or national positions. Christians in positions of power can affect real change and bring a biblical worldview to legislation.
Support Christian Leaders – Support organizations like the Family Research Council that advocate for Christian values in the public sphere. These organizations work to protect religious freedom, defend life, and promote justice.

The world needs Christians who are not afraid to speak the truth and live according to their faith in every area of life—including politics. Laws affect us personally, and when those laws conflict with scripture, we must be willing to engage and advocate for change.

We are called to be salt and light—not to hide from the world but to shine brightly in it. By engaging in the political process, we can help shape laws that protect life, promote justice, and honor God. Just as God used Joseph, Daniel, Esther, and Paul to influence their nations, He can use us today to impact the world for His glory.

It’s time for Christians to stop avoiding politics. We must be involved, not just for our own benefit but for the benefit of society. Our participation in the political process is not just a right—it’s a responsibility.