How does our life in Christ affect the way we vote? In this Adult Discipleship Course (ADC), we study how the Bible teaches citizens of heaven to also live as citizens of earth. We’ll begin with praying for those in high positions then move to discussions on the following: what it means for Christians to be a holy nation spread around the world; how to reach people with the gospel during a charged season; and Biblical character traits for godly leadership. We will not discuss politics or candidates.
This course is offered in North Wake Church 2024 Adult Discipleship Courses. For scheduling see the main ADC page.
Part 1: First of All: Pray and Rely On God’s Sovereignty.
Teacher: Scott Brazil
Jesus’ statement “it is finished” on the cross is a powerful moment of redemption and salvation (Matthew 27:50).
This study on living as a Christian in an election year will explore how our faith intersects with politics and government, and how to approach these issues with integrity and character
God is sovereign – the King, President, Governor, Ruler – over governments.
God is sovereign over rulers and nations, analyzing passages in the Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah, and Daniel.
God controls the king’s heart, turning it wherever He wills (Exodus 4:21).
Worship and trust in God, not in human leaders or ideologies, is emphasized throughout the conversation.
God sent the Israelites into exile, but instructed them to pray for the welfare of the city and seek the Lord’s blessing.
Believers in Jesus should pray for leaders and honor them, despite divisiveness in the church and society. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Prayers for leadership and change, with a focus on God’s guidance and heart transformation.
Part 2: Being a Holy Nation.
Teacher: Jerry Lassetter
1 Peter 2:1-2 – God has made Christians everywhere into a single “Holy Nation.”
In Philippians 1:27-2:11, Paul encourages Philippians to behave as citizens of heaven, standing firm in one spirit with one mind. Our citizenship is in heaven, now.
Our citizenship is in heaven, not on earth. As believers, our primary identity and loyalty is to God’s kingdom, not earthly kingdoms.
We are ambassadors for Christ, representing His message of reconciliation to the world. As ambassadors, we have a responsibility to seek the welfare of the places where we live, even if they are not our true home.
There is a tension between submitting to earthly authorities and obeying God’s higher laws. We must navigate this carefully, avoiding both passive acceptance and rebellious defiance of authorities.
We are called to pray for our government leaders, even those who are ungodly, desiring their salvation and the peace and stability they can provide for us to live quiet and godly lives.
Unity in the church is crucial, even when we have differing political views. Our shared citizenship in heaven should transcend our earthly divisions.
Part 3: Evangelism and Talking about Difficult Subjects in an Election Year
Teacher: Scott Brazil
Demote politics and controversial issues to focus on promoting the gospel of God’s kingdom. Recognize that earthly politics and controversies are small in comparison to God’s eternal kingdom. Colossians 4:2-6
Use questioning and listening to have meaningful conversations, rather than just asserting your views. Ask questions to understand others’ perspectives and guide them to consider the truth of the gospel.
Speak with grace and wisdom when addressing difficult topics like LGBTQ issues. Correct gently, avoiding condemnation, and point people to God’s design and the new life available in Christ. Matthew 5:43-48.
Understand that the gospel message itself is inherently “political” – it proclaims Jesus as the true King whose kingdom will ultimately prevail over all earthly powers. John 19:10-11.
Focus on living out the values of God’s kingdom – righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Let this be the witness that draws others to consider the claims of Christ. Matthew 5:14-16
Part 4: Choosing a Candidate
Mark Lindsey
God’s Word gives us many examples describing the proper conduct of government authority. We’re going to look at them together.
Government leaders occupy a position of power created by God, and he describes the duties and responsibilities of those leaders. Romans 13:1 ; Daniel 2:20-23; Titus 3:1-7.
Godly leaders protect all life – from pre-born children to the elderly and weak. Luke 1:41-44, Genesis 25:22, Exodus 21:22-25 all point to the essential logic that a child is a protected human life before the child is born.
Godly Leaders promote criminal justice. Romans 13:2-5 ; Genesis 9:5-6 ; 1 Peter 2:13-17.
Godly leaders work to protect the powerless and vulnerable. Exodus 20:14. Exodus 22:22
The Bible authorizes collection of taxes. Romans 13:6-7, Matthew 22:21.
Personal Sin in a leader is a reproach to the nation. Promoting and endorsing sin is rebellion against God. Proverbs 14:34.
God created male and female, and leaders are expected work in the context of submission to God. Genesis 1:26-28.
Civil Government Leaders must work to provide civil justice – protection against theft and loss – and especially for the poor and needy. Exodus 20:15, Psalm 72:1-4.
Proper management of natural resources is a task for leaders. Psalm 72:1-3, Genesis 2:15
God has a special care for immigrants, refugees, and leaders are expected to regulate immigration while protecting the human beings. Deuteronomy 10:18, Jeremiah 7:6, Exodus 23:9.
An intelligent leader will recognize their weakness and humbly seek God’s help. 1 Kings 3:7-9.
