This week’s devotions are based on Week 1 of Grateful Hearts GO Together (WATCH HERE)
Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.
If you are a resident of the United States, let me encourage you to go vote today…but as you do, keep biblical truths in mind.
The mission of God’s Church, his people, doesn’t depend on a political party or a US election to be carried out. The mission of God’s people that Jesus gave in Matthew 28 is dependent on three things: The Gospel message of sins forgiven through Jesus Christ, a person to share it, and a person to hear it. In every polity in the world over the last 2000 years, God’s mission to make disciples of ALL nations has continued. To be sure, some political entities have persecuted and killed Christians. Some governmental structures have made it very difficult to live out one’s Christian faith without consequences, but the Gospel has prevailed.
And it will continue to. Why?
First, because over every governing authority is the rule of Christ. Paul, who lived in a Roman system that did its best to get rid of Christians wrote this, “And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way” (Ephesians 1:22-23).
Second, because in every heart of the Christian is the compelling nature of God’s love to share Jesus no matter the earthly consequence. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ and the mission of Christ.
The kingdom of God will continue even if governing power changes. It may become more or less difficult. We may be challenged in our beliefs and convictions and there may come a point where we “must obey God rather than man.”
But God’s kingdom will prevail.
AND we are citizens of the “kingdom” (country) of the United States. We can use our reason to understand the candidates and their positions on policy – from Senators down to local assessors and judges. We can evaluate the constitutions of our country, our state and our local county and municipalities to determine which candidate will rule in line with the values expressed there in. We can also use our Christian faith to inform our choice to allow the influence of Christian values to flavor how one views their role in government and the policies they pursue. We can choose candidates that reflect a biblical worldview, godly character, and pursue Christian morality. But remember, we are not electing Saviors. We are not electing church officials. We are participating in a process which God has allowed to bring governing officials into office.
And when the election is over, remember Romans 13:1: “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
Governments will change, the Gospel never has and never will. Politicians will make promises they will not or can not keep. God makes promises that never fail. The kingdom of the state influences people for a season. The kingdom of God informs our eternity.
So go and vote. Be involved in your country…but more importantly “Go and make disciples!” Be involved in the Great Commission!
Reflect: What peace comes from knowing Jesus is ruling all for the benefit of his Church?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege and responsibility of living in a nation where we can participate in choosing our leaders. On this Election Day, guide the hearts and minds of voters, grant wisdom and integrity to those who serve in positions of leadership, and help us make decisions that promote justice, peace, and the common good. Regardless of the outcome, keep us united in Christ, respectful toward one another, and confident that our times and our nation remain in Your hands. Bless our country and lead us according to Your good and gracious will. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.