Dear Watermark Family,
We are often advised to avoid speaking about two topics: religion and politics. Today, I’m going to talk about both because, as Christians, we are called to search the Scriptures, speak to the challenges of our day, and seek the welfare of our city (Jeremiah 29:7).
As the election nears, I encourage you to do four things:
- Pray
- Do Your Homework
- Identify and Avoid Three Common Mistakes
- Vote
Pray
The Bible is clear. We are to pray for our governing authorities, regardless of whether we agree with or like them (1 Timothy 2:1-2). As a church, we are kicking off 24 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election from October 13 – November 5, in which we are encouraging every member of our church to pray for our nation for the 24 days leading up to the presidential election. You can sign up to receive daily prayer prompts by texting “PRAY” to 40585. These prayer prompts will cover various topics and passages of Scripture. We also plan to gather for a Night of Prayer and Worship on October 17 at 7 PM.
Do Your Homework
Sadly, in our digital age, the truth is elusive. Images are altered, rumors swirl, and false reports dominate social media and news feeds. A rumor recently circulated in my neighborhood about gang violence. Multiple people posted online and texted spurious reports to warn their neighbors. What caught many people’s attention and raised anxiety turned out to be based on unfounded claims. The police department later issued a statement to alleviate people’s fears.
We must all do our homework. Don’t simply take someone else’s word for it. Learn about the various candidates, the party platforms, and the issues on the ballot. Check your sources. Ensure they are credible and understand their biases. In other words, be an informed voter.
Identify and Avoid Three Common Mistakes
Whenever you hear political debate, it is also common to hear various logical fallacies. These fallacies weaken one’s argument. The next time you hear someone engaged in a spirited debate, see if you can identify one of these fallacies:
- Strawman Argument: A strawman argument occurs whenever someone inaccurately portrays his or her opponent’s point of view and then attacks it. As believers, we must be truthful, and it is incumbent upon us to represent someone’s side just as they would represent it. Yet, how often in political debate do we hear pundits misrepresent the other side’s arguments?
- Ad Hominem Argument: An ad hominem argument occurs whenever we attack the person rather than refuting the claims of his or her argument. This often creates distraction and division and doesn’t allow for thoughtful discussion of substantive issues.
- Appeal to Authority: This argument, which is often heard during election cycles, occurs whenever someone claims his or her belief is right simply because it is supported by an expert or known authority. Remember, the “experts” make mistakes, are sometimes biased themselves, and are often wrong. Something is not true simply because an “expert” or many people believe it.
If you listen closely, you will be amazed at how often you will hear these common fallacies repeated. Sadly, politicians and their supporters often employ them in a “win at all costs” mindset because they believe the ends justify the means. Work to identify these flawed approaches and be careful not to practice them yourself.
Vote
Finally, I urge you to vote! Yes, your vote matters. We live in a land where we are free to vote and express our political views. Failing to vote devalues your freedom and voice. No one should take such a great privilege for granted, especially considering the totalitarian regimes that exist today. People in many countries long to have the voice we can easily take for granted.
As Christians, our hope is not in the outcome of any election, but we are responsible for how we steward our vote. As you vote, I encourage you to consider each candidate’s position on:
- Religious freedom - say “yes” to religious freedom (Matthew 22:21)
- The sanctity of life - say “yes” to life (Psalm 139:13-16)
- The definition and role of the family - say “yes” to the biblical definition of gender and marriage (Genesis 1:27, Genesis 2:23-24)
- The rule of law - say “yes” to impartiality, justice, and righteousness (Micah 6:8, James 2:8-9)
- The dignity of each individual person - say “yes” to the worth of the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized (Genesis 1:27, James 1:27)
As Christians, there is freedom to disagree over secondary and tertiary issues like degrees of taxation and school vouchers, but on these five topics, the Bible is clear.
It is often stated that you cannot legislate morality. This simply isn’t true. Every law reflects someone’s morality. The question is: Whose moral values? Although imperfect, will the candidate you vote for enact just policies? Which candidates’ personal character most aligns with what God values? Which candidates’ stated positions best reflect historic Christian beliefs and moral values?
I pray our church is known more for our love of God and neighbor than any allegiance to a candidate or party. Each one of us must weigh the various positions and factors influencing our vote and make an informed choice before the Lord. What is significant to you may not be as important to your family, friends, or co-workers. Yet, what we as a church must all value is how we treat those with whom we disagree with. While we may vehemently disagree over important political topics, we are still called to love our neighbor regardless of their political beliefs.
Regardless of the outcome in November, I will rest in the sovereign will of God expressed in Daniel 2:20-22.
20 “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever,
to whom belong wisdom and might.
21 He changes times and seasons;
he removes kings and sets up kings;
he gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to those who have understanding;
22 he reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what is in the darkness,
and the light dwells with him.
See you on Sunday,
Blake
Blake serves as Elder and Lead Pastor of Ministries and Staff at Watermark Community Church.