Towards a Biblical Theology of Church and Politics.

This is not a new question or a new discussion. It has been a significant concern for many years and continues to require careful examination, evaluation, implementation, and discussion. Within the church, there are several camps that hold distinct positions or creeds regarding the relationship between the church and politics.

During COVID-19, this became a major debate, particularly within the churches. Should churches remain open, or should they close? Perhaps it was too late, or it became difficult to formulate a new creed in the midst of a global crisis such as COVID-19. It would be far more beneficial to establish church creeds before a pandemic or any similar crisis arises. Such preparation would enable churches to respond with faithfulness, meekness, gentleness, and kindness while remaining faithful to the gospel call.

One possible biblical framework for the relationship between the church and politics can be summarized in six affirmations:

1. We honour governing authorities.
   Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17

2. We pray for those who lead our nation.
   1 Timothy 2:1–4

3. We proclaim the gospel as our primary mission.
   Matthew 28:18–20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8

4. We seek the good and flourishing of our nation.
   Jeremiah 29:7; Proverbs 14:34

5. We pursue justice, mercy, and humility in public life.
   Micah 6:8

6. We obey God above every earthly authority.
   Acts 5:29

Together, these affirmations provide a biblical framework for the church’s relationship with politics: we honour governing authorities, pray for those who lead our nation, proclaim the gospel as our primary mission, seek the good and flourishing of our communities, pursue justice, mercy, and humility in public life, and obey God above every earthly authority.

Individuals need to recognize that God places unique callings upon His people for distinct purposes. Some are called to shepherd the congregation, others to focus on Christian theology, and others to serve within government for the common good of society, promoting peace, justice, and human flourishing. Every calling, when exercised faithfully, contributes to God’s purposes in the world.

I appreciate the idea of maximizing church celebrations, such as the Big Church Day Out—a gathering of churches in the form of a festival. Wouldn’t that be remarkable? Such events have already taken place and should continue to do so, fostering joy, unity, and celebration. Humanity can experience freedom, love, and celebration together under the church’s witness.

The church’s ultimate mission remains the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. While Christians may serve faithfully in public life and seek the welfare of their nations, the church must never lose sight of its primary calling: to make disciples of all nations, glorify God, and bear faithful witness to Christ until He returns.