A Time to Rethink

The United States of America has recently come through what was arguably the most divisive, inflammatory political election seasons since immediately after Civil War. Citizens of all political bents often watched in horror at the actions and attitudes of candidates, partisans, and fellow members of their own circles of friends as the heat of the campaign played out. Every day accusations, insults, and the extreme use of hyperbole blared over our radio speakers, blasted across our televisions, and screamed in bold-face on our computers and handheld screens. It was a confusing time.

Throughout the often excruciating process, good people with good intentions often became so inflamed with passion over the claims and positions of the various candidates that they would insult one another, driving deep wedges into longstanding relationships while unwittingly parroting the very words of those who have made their livings learning how to manipulate the minds of people. Many of us--this writer included--fell into this spiraling trap of conflict. We parried and jabbed, hurled insults and took offense at slights.  Many of us were demeaned and even threatened by people we'd long admired when our viewpoints didn't match up with theirs. Friendships were broken, family relations strained, as our politics became the most important thing in our lives.

It's February now and the election is over. Regardless of your political affiliation or preferences, the fact remains that Donald J. Trump has taken office as the President of the United States of America. Though one might assume the vitriol and hyperbole, the spin and the outright lies would diminish, it would seem that they've actually accelerated from all camps. Riots, protests, violence, and insults have erupted across the map and even around the globe. Rumors, mudslinging, demeaning language, and divisive actions continue to plague our land.

As a Christian, what are we to do? It is this writer's belief that my allegiance to God, my commitment to Christ must supersede any other allegiances I might hold, whether it be to my country or a political party. I believe that the scripture is infallible and inerrant, and therefore is an unchanging standard by which I am to evaluate my thoughts, my actions, and my support of causes and campaigns. I cannot divorce my political viewpoints, my business ethics, or my relational activities from my faith in Christ and my desire to follow His Word. To do so would make me hypocritical. I may not always get it right, but I seek to please Him in every aspect of my life.

With that in mind, now that the heat of the election is over, I felt it important to add a biblical voice to the national dialogue on the political events of our day. We will delve into the issues and topics discussed by news broadcasts, politicians, and commentators. The difference is, we will base our responses on biblical principles and/or examples. The conversations may become uncomfortable, but we will always strive to frame our viewpoint in a study of our foundational document: the Bible.

Join us on this journey as we rethink our positions and explore biblical answers to today's current events.