Posted by
JayPeriod on Wednesday, December 12, 2007 12:30:20 PM
Recently, Mike Huckabee made a comment in response to the question, "What would Jesus do about the death penalty," in which he stated that Jesus was too smart to get involved in politics. His quip was actually very accurate. Upon inspection of the New Testament, we clearly see that Jesus had little to do with the politics and government of His time.
Jesus actually had a chance to do something about the death penalty. He could have gotten the thief off the cross beside Him. Yet, His response was to remind him that he would join Jesus in Paradise that day. Jesus responded to those who questioned Him on paying taxes by telling them to give to Caesar what was his. He wasn't worried about being politically correct, He talked with those who were shunned by others, listened to those who questioned Him and called sin, sin.
Jesus had a higher Kingdom in mind as He walked this planet. He was more worried about the soul of the murderer than the method of his punishment. He was more concerned with where the adulteress was going to spend eternity than with her comfort at being confronted by her sin. He was more interested in people's stewardship of their resources than the government's.
So, does this mean that Christians shouldn't get involved in politics or in trying to change society? No. We are a part of this society and politics are a part of it. We should, though, be more concerned with the eternal aspects of life. We do what we can to end the awful practice of abortion, but if we can change the hearts and minds of individual women in trouble, we can change it without a vote ever being taken. We pay our taxes, but we strive to reduce them so we have available funds to do more for the poor personally, all the while helping those in need that we see.
We must realize two things; God's kingdom is better than men's and God is in control of all aspects of this world. When we introduce people to God's kingdom, His real kingdom, not the one we design, we can change their hearts and change our society in the process. God is in control, putting in power who He desires, either a blessing or a curse to the people, depending on whom they deserve. So, if we'll pursue God and His plans for our lives, He'll bless our nation with rulers who will govern in righteousness.