POLITICAL POWER FOR PURPOSEFUL LIVING (2)
TOPIC: POLITICAL POWER FOR PURPOSEFUL LIVING (2)
TEXT: ESTHER 8:1-17
In some circles, it is believe that politics is intrinsically dishonoured, and that political involvement is unsuitable for those who profess to be Christians, they believe because political engagement does not make someone to give his/her life to Christ, it shouldn’t be the main concern of the believers. The truth is there are Christians today who suppose to be in the palace but struggling with the pulpit. Taking a closer look at the Bible, you will find out that government is God’s idea and He is interested in who govern His people.
Paul in Romans 13:4, describes people in power as God's servants with the aim of punishing wrong and administering justice to the people. God designed government and Christians should participate in it in a way fitted to its divinely predetermined intention. Every Christian should care about his/her nation’s political process, the Bible is full of several of God’s people engaging in politics as part of a holistic approach to ministry that meets both spiritual and temporal needs. Joseph and Daniel served in Egypt and Babylon and used their influence to implement policies that benefited society. Joseph during the crushing famine in Genesis 45:9-12, used his position in the Egyptian government to protect and provide for his extended family.
Queen Esther used her influence in Shushan the Palace to save the Jewish people from the king-authorized destruction. Prophet Jeremiah instructed the people of Judah in exiles to do good things for the city He sent them to. Charged them to pray to the LORD for the city they are living in, because if there is peace in that city, they will have peace also" - Jeremiah 29:7. It is impossible to avoid some level of involvement and engagement because government, its laws, policies and programmes are an inseparable part of our lives. This is true for Christians, who, though “sojourners and exiles” (1 Peter 2:11) in this world, are nevertheless living in the world as citizens and at the same time expecting to become the citizens of the City build and make by God.” Therefore, you are enjoined to be good citizen of these two cities and leverage your influence for the advancement of laws, policies and programmes for common good of all.
In addition, the identity of who participate in politics matter, for the fact that somebody bears Christian’s name does not make the fellow a Child of God. It is not those who profess to be Christian alone but also those who live Christ that be involved. For if a man who is not genuinely born again eventually win an election, he would join the bandwagons. There is need for you to organize yourself, education others, contest in an election, and become a member of a political party if need be. For greater good, there is need for greater number of positive and right people at the helm of affairs of a nation – federal, state and local government. Be involved!
Word Affirmation: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." - Jer 29:11 (Don't just say it, mean it!)
“For greater good, there is need for greater number of positive and right people at the helm of affairs of a nation – federal, state and local government. Be involved!"
Central Truth