Politics for People Who Hate PoliticsSample

As Christians, pursuing unity for the body of Christ is not optional, but it is also not the same thing as conformity. In fact, we are called to unify in spite of our differences. Our pursuit of unity stems from our common identity as brothers and sisters in Christ. Unity is therefore our response to God’s command, fueled by our love for each other and our desire to obey Him.

Conformity, on the other hand, stems from shame, and external pressures that tell us to be or believe something for the sake of getting along with others. Conformity stems from religious and political spirits demanding that we adhere to human standards rather than God’s. Fueled by the fear of people, conformity drives us to extremes and threatens our ability to love and honor each other the way God commands us to.

Political extremism is anathema to unity and should thus be avoided by Christians. It breeds hatred and suspicion and fuels the “us versus them” mentality that Satan uses to “steal, kill, and destroy” (John 10:10) the church. It also causes us to demonize other image-bearers based on their political beliefs. As Christians, we should direct our hatred at that which divides us rather than at those who don’t vote like we do.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can guard against conforming to political pressures while still engaging in conversations that promote unity in Christ?