The Role of Politics in Christian Context

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Another political year is upon us here in the USA.  Though not a presidential election year, the midterms will see key offices for governor, representatives, senators and other local offices on the ballot.  Hanging in the balance will be the control of congress by either party.  As usual, these times can be politically volatile.  Christians often seem to ignore the fact that no party represents the 'christian' party.  Certainly, no party can in anyway lay claim to the kingdom of God.  Parties, like nations are by nature tribal and divisive.  The Kingdom of God on the other hand calls people from every nation, tribe, and earthly kingdom to a new allegiance.   So likewise, as I have written on previous blogs, no party can claim to capture the christian vote.  One example I have cited is the position on the sanctity of life as held by the Roman Catholic Church.   In simple terms, their understanding of the sanctity of life results in a strong view against contraception and abortion which currently aligns with the Republican Party (USA), but equally strong views against capital punishment, in favor of immigration and asylum rights, the rights of the poor, and the importance of welfare for the neediest in society, these align closer to the Democratic Party (USA).

These issues should be looked at in their complexity.  For example, even with the abortion issue it is not an open and close case in the Roman Catholic church.  While the church does not support either the taking of a child's life to save the mother or vice versa, it does recognize that medically neutral and necessary procedures to save the mother may have unintended consequences for the life of the child.  For more info on the view of the Roman Catholic church on abortion see the link below.  Protestant denominations have traditionally held more liberal views on abortion.  This illustrates the complex nature of these political arguments, and the fact that Christian denominations have often interpreted views such as abortion in different ways, while still upholding essentially a high regard for life.

So what should be the role of the church in the political context.  One answer comes from N.T. Wright who reminds the church that its role is to hold up a mirror to those in power and not necessarily try to control power in order to bring about one particular vision of a 'christian' society.  He argues that the role currently held by the media was once a role that was the function of the church.  The PC(USA) office of public witness is an example of what N.T.Wright is talking about, a non-partisan office of the Presbyterian church that seeks to advocate for important social issues that stem from Christians understanding of the gospel.  Wright himself illustrates how basic social welfare has always been traditionally part of the church's social witness.  In the current volatile political climate, it is increasing important for Christians to reflect on the role of the church as a part of society that holds politicians accountable as suggested by N.T. Wright. 

It is important for us to remember that there are many issues where good Christians will disagree.  Abortion is one of those issues.  There are complexities that do not make for a clear black and white answer as to when life begins, or which life should be prioritized.  On the other hand, there are tenets that are critical to the core of Christianity.  While whether Christians should own guns, abortion, contraception, and many other politicized opinions are not essential for Christian belief, issues of racism and discrimination are clearly addressed in scripture and go to the core of the Christian message of love, acceptance and charity.  

Roman Catholic Diocese view on abortion

PC(USA) views on abortion

ELCA Lutheran view on abortion

ACNA view on abortion

Greek Orthodox View on Abortion