A Godly Attitude in a Politically Divided World

Godly Living in a Politically Divided World

Titus 3:1-2

“Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.”

                  After a hotly divided election, it is easy for politics to become divisive. But how are we to respond as Christians?  How do we model Christ in a politically divided country?  As Paul writes Titus, he instructs Titus regarding how we should react to leaders, regardless of who they are or their political affiliation.  Our first response is to submit to rulers and authorities by obeying them.  Throughout the Bible, we are reminded that God exercises His sovereign authority over the governments, and He is the one who determines who will rule.  Even in a society that is democratic, God’s unseen hand is guiding the process so that those who are in a position of leadership are there because of His divine purpose.  This does not mean that God is affirming their character or policies.  Their election is not a sign of God’s approval of them. Instead, it means that God directs and governs the events and movements of nations to accomplish His purpose.  Proverbs 21:1 states, “The King’s heart is like channels of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He wishes” (see also Romans 12). This has several implications for us today. First, because God is the one who governs the nations and the leaders, we are to be obedient to the laws of the nations. We are to submit to them by recognizing their authority to promote what is good.  We manifest Christ as model citizens, even in a non-Christian social order. There is a time for civil disobedience only when they pass laws directly contradicting our obedience to Christ. In all other areas, we are to submit to the laws of the land. 

Second, instead of being subversive or rebellious and seeking to undermine their authority, we should look for opportunities to do good. We are to cooperate with the human government by doing what promotes the common good and grace that benefits society.  

Third, we are to malign no one but promote peace.  The word malign means to charge falsely or with malicious intent; to attack the reputation of others.  Our natural tendency is to grouse and complain about others, especially political leaders with whom we disagree.  How we speak about others and governmental officials reveals our relationship with God.  While we should confront them when they do what is wrong, we should be careful not to slander others because we disagree falsely.  As followers of Christ, we are to be peacemakers in a divisive world. In our politically charged world, having a sharp tongue and an aggressive attitude toward others we disagree with is easy.  Instead, we are to peaceable and gentle.  The word ‘gentle” refers to one who is merciful, tolerant, and gracious towards others.  We must demonstrate kindness and forbearance instead of being aggressive and demanding our rights.  When we do so, we not only influence our culture but also point them to Christ.  We may disagree with the election results and not like who was elected. Still, we can be a voice of reconciliation and peace in a politically divided and angry world. When we do so, we then demonstrate Christ to the world.