Vote or not vote?
Currently, the whole of the social media and our air waves in Nigeria are filled with ads, tunes and discussion about the elections. In the midst of all these, the Christian is faced with the dilemma of what position to take. While the Bible enjoins us to pray for our leaders (read I Timothy 2:1-4), there is virtually nothing to be specific about Christians participating in politics in the Bible.
Jesus Christ in his time wanted to be crowned king because of His influence on the people and because many perceived that being the Messiah meant He had to be king, so He could probably lead them to war against the Romans. But at different occasions in the Gospels did Jesus withdraw from the compelling crowd signifying that it was not the purpose of His coming to the world. But the question is, is that reason enough to say Christians should not participate in politics?
Again, the Bible gives sterling pointers that God is interested in the governance set up by men. The nation Israel, being the God’s choice nation, got her first king by God’s own mandate, even though the people demanded for it. (I Samuel 8:5) Many kings in Israel’s history were anointed/approved by God, even Gentile kings like Cyrus, Nebuchadnezzar, Darius and the likes got to be used by God at one time or the other. Many other facts are scattered about in the Bible connoting that God is interested in the affairs of men; on how we set up governance.
The Israelites demanding for a king is not different from what we do today. Every four years, or five in some other countries, we clamour for a new leadership and thereby we vote. Yes, we may not do it like the Israelites but the principle is no different.
As Christians, we should always remember that we ought to look out for a leader who will follow the will of God. This is why in my opinion, Christians should not back out in politics. There is no one who will follow the will of God than the man who does the will of God. That said, we must strive to put the matters of our nation’s politics in prayer.
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure” (Psalm 122:6)
Christians should vote as led through prayer as well as a critical contrast on what candidates are available, based on the word of God. Most times, this may be difficult but the Spirit of God helps us to make the right decisions.
However what are your views? Please leave a comment and share.
I leave you with a music video from Midnight Crew titled “Mo Dibo” (A Yoruba statement meaning, “I will vote”)
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