Christians in a Representative Democracy

There are few passages in scripture that deal with government and authority. One is Romans 13:

1Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

The other is 1 Timothy 2:

1First 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.

I have no doubt that these passages transcend time and governments and apply today. It is important to note the context of the times in which it was written. The Jewish people of the time didn't vote in elections....didn't hold primaries......it was not a representational democracy as we have here in this country. The encouragement in both of these passages speak to submission to rulers or governments placed over the people against their will (maybe it is a little like us).

So, how do Christians function in a democracy? Of course, we must vote our conscience-we must vote for people of integrity, for people that maybe most represent the nature of Christ. And we must submit, regardless of who is elected to rule. And we must pray for them-despite our objections to their character or decisions they make. Our prayers may be to remove someone in position over us, or to give wisdom and clarity for decisions that must be made...or, as I have found myself doing lately, pray for God to change the hearts of those in authority over us, particularly locally.

I don't believe in a full frontal assault of Christians engaging in politics where the words spoken are out of hate or power struggle. I don't believe in mindlessly voting party because somehow having a letter in front of your name makes you the moral choice. I do believe, and encourage, Christians to become involved in their communities to help solve problems and if that leads to political involvement-keep themselves in check so that their witness is more important than their position......or a win.