What does the Bible say about politics in church? This is a question that has intrigued many Christians over the years. The Bible, as a sacred text for Christians, offers various perspectives on the role of politics within the church. While the Bible does not explicitly address modern political systems, it provides principles and teachings that can guide Christians in navigating the intersection of faith and politics within the church setting.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony within the church community. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, Paul writes, “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” This passage highlights the unity of the church, suggesting that political divisions should not disrupt the unity and harmony among believers.
However, the Bible also acknowledges the presence of power dynamics within the church. In 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Paul outlines the qualifications for church leaders, emphasizing the importance of integrity, wisdom, and humility. These qualifications suggest that church leaders should possess the qualities necessary to lead and govern the church effectively, while also maintaining a focus on spiritual matters.
In the book of Acts, we see examples of political tensions within the early church. For instance, in Acts 4:1-22, the apostles are arrested for preaching the Gospel and healing the sick. The Sanhedrin, a Jewish governing body, is depicted as opposing the apostles’ message. Despite this political pressure, the apostles continue to spread the word of God and perform miracles, demonstrating their commitment to their faith over political interests.
The Bible also encourages believers to be wise and discerning in their political decisions. In Proverbs 16:21, we are advised, “The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.” This suggests that Christians should approach political matters with a discerning heart, seeking wisdom and understanding before making decisions.
Furthermore, the Bible teaches the importance of submission to authority. In Romans 13:1-7, Paul writes, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” This passage reminds believers that while they should be discerning in their political decisions, they should also respect and submit to the governing authorities, as long as they do not contradict God’s commands.
In conclusion, the Bible offers various insights into the role of politics in the church. It emphasizes the importance of unity, integrity, wisdom, and submission to authority. While the Bible does not explicitly address modern political systems, its teachings can guide Christians in navigating the intersection of faith and politics within the church setting. By embracing these principles, believers can contribute to a harmonious and spiritually-focused church community.
