Relationships with Government and Politicians – Confronting Christian Nationalism

God is very mindful of the need for government to manage civil affairs. He is also very mindful of the reality that people with political power may be tempted to exploit that power for personal purposes. This is why the bible lays out guidelines for leaders and their constituencies so that they can conduct the business of government without graft and dissention.

STUDY TIP: See these links for strategies that relate closely to government and politicians.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH GOVERNMENT AND POLITICIANS

Be subject to rulers and authorities, be obedient, be ready to do whatever is good, slander no one, be peaceable and considerate, and always be gentle toward everyone.

COMMENTARY: These behaviors apply to everyone — including politicians.

Avoid foolish controversies, arguments and quarrels because these are unprofitable and useless.
Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. Such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.

Command people not to teach false doctrines or to devote themselves to myths. Such things promote controversial speculations.

COMMENTARY: Christian Nationalists are famous for creating and reciting conspiracy theories. These are the equivalent of false doctrines and myths which cause division which is designed to attract uneducated, fearful people to Christian Nationalism and support its leaders with money and votes.

Warn against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.
Avoid godless chatter. Their teaching will spread like gangrene.
Reject foolish and ignorant speculation because it breeds quarreling.
Do not trust in deceptive words.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil.
Do not speak evil about the rulers of your people.
You must not curse the ruler of your people.
Do not curse the political leaders even in your thoughts, or curse the rich even in your bedroom, for a bird of the air may carry your words, and a winged creature may report your speech.

COMMENTARY: Christian Nationalists freely and often criticize liberal politicians and call them disparaging names. These are warnings not to speak, or even think bad things about political leaders. One reason is that whatever you say might somehow be reported to that leader. This creates division which is destructive to the collegiality necessary for democratic government. Another reason is that bad reports about politicians create doubt about political leaders in the minds of constituents who may choose to vote instead for a Christian Nationalist candidate.