Is It Our Christian Duty?

Have you ever heard someone say, "It's our Christian duty to be involved in politics" or "Christians must actively participate in all aspects of society to bring glory to God" ? Probably and for many of us, we didn't think anything of it. But is that what the Bible really teaches? Are Christians supposed to be involved in politics and activism?

Christians are "strangers and pilgrims" in this world. As pilgrims we realize that this earthly "home" is not really where we're going to stay. This world and all of it's trappings may hold some appeal to us, but it can only bring momentary "satisfaction". It's not what we're made for and it's not what we should be deeply involved in. If you truly believe that you're a stranger and pilgrim in this world, why would you get wrapped up in its political system?

Another point to consider is, did Jesus or any of the apostles get involved in trying to change the world through politics? I don't think so! There's not a single mention of it. Instead we see them changing hearts and lives one at a time, not trying to change immoral laws or protesting the latest governmental move. So, if our Lord and those who were his personal disciples did not get involved with politics and try to change things that way, should we?

The government of their day was very corrupt, but from what we see in the four gospels, Jesus dealt with religious corruption and the corrupt hearts of men. Part of the reason Jesus was not recognized as the Messiah was because He did not come as a political savior, but as Savior of mankind.

So in closing, is it our Christian duty to get wrapped up in the politics and activism of this world? I think not. Our Christian duty is to "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation." (Mark 16:15) We will find our duty is to build the Kingdom of God, not the kingdom of this world.