WHO WOULD JESUS VOTE FOR?

This message was preached on October 26, 2008. It was an incredible challenge to prepare and preach. Not because I was sick the day I presented it; but because this topic is so sensitive and potentially expolosive with people. Many people, even within the church have passionate views about politics and hope that the pastor will say something that will support their view. And it is not just whether someone votes Democrat or Republican, but also includes certain issues, whether or not the world is about to end, and who the Anti-Christ might be! It was my desire not to answer all of their questions or to break down each issue; but to present the principles from the Word of God that could be useful during election years.

I put a lot of work into preparing this message; and as usual, had to leave some of my work, including illustrations, out of the finished product. So, in this blog, I have included, not only the manuscript of the message I spoke, but in [brackets], I have included my extra notes that I was not able to include. So, it is up to you to decided if you woudl like to read and think about the extra notes, which are in brackets, or not.

Near the beginning of the message, there is a skit that was acted out live on stage. The names listed are the first names of the actors. They did a great job of acting like debaters, including during the intro. music, shaking hands and waving to the audience! At the end of the message are the resources that are mentioned in the message, that was available to our people on the back of their message outlines. We do not necessarily agree with everything in those resources or with the organizations or persons that produced them; but we do think they can be helpful as Christians get all the information they can in determining for whom they should vote.

The audio of this message will be available as soon as our website is fixed at:
www.gbcwestlake.org You can click on the listen option and choose that particular message.
I would be interested in your comments after reading this message.

WHO WOULD JESUS VOTE FOR?
[expanded version]

[Presidents video– Can be viewed for free at sermonspice.com by searching politics, then choosing the Presidents video – it gives quotes about the Bible and God, attributed to past Presidents of the USA]

Please turn in your Bible to Job 38. In the Bible in front of you, it is page 463 or 476.

[Why would I take a detour out of our journey in Mark, in order to talk with you today about this controversial topic? First, this is on the hearts and minds of people right now. They are struggling with it; and are wondering, as a Christian, how to approach this issue of politics. But, most importantly, I felt led by God to spend time this morning dealing with this issue. The difference between what we are doing this morning and the constant talk of politics in the office, living rooms and throughout the media is this: we get to talk about it in the context of the truth: the living Word of God! And the fact is: the Bible has something to say to us about politics.

I received several e-mails and faxes from a certain Christian group over the past few weeks; and one I received this week really caught my attention. It is addresses to all church congregations, and part of it reads: “Has your Pastor, Rabbi or Priest explained that (and then it talks about a certain candidates views on abortion) Why is he silent? If Herod were running for King today, fir your congregational leader knew of the slaughter ahead, and recognizing that it is perfectly safe and legal to speak out in t eh USA…would he or she say even one word?...How, in heaven’s name, can pulpit silence on this possibly be rationalized?

Has your pastor talked about the (presidential candidate’s name) this person’s view on sexual orientation. Why not? Does your pastor even have a clue regarding his First amendment, free exercise, Free Speech rights to teach the bible and tradition from pulpit to pew—while clearly explaining policies of political leaders and naming names? Is there any reason he or she would prefer ignorance? Has your Shepherd spoken even one clear word on these monumental matters from the pulpit? Is your shepherd a man of God…or just a holy pontificator…a church mouse…a wimp?

I’m not afraid to talk about or do messages on abortion, or marriage. We’ve recently done messages on Hell, homosexuality and other controversial topics.

Let me very clear, from the beginning. I am not here to talk about the specific issues in politics, although we have already brought several of them up. I am not going to endorse a particular candidate, although I have been receiving e-mails telling me that I can legally do so. I am not going to tell you how to vote. My job, my responsibility before God, this morning, my goal is this: to help you see the political scene through God’s eyes, as revealed in His Word. If you leave here, more committed to seeing God’s perspective, rather than assuming your perspective is His, then I will have been successful this morning.

Why do many people say that they will talk about anything but politics or religion? It is because these 2 topics bring out emotions from people, unlike any other topic, and can sometimes lead to fighting, division, mocking and even hatred. Bring up the topic of politics today in public, step back and watch the sparks fly.]

People are passionate about their politics. This story appeared recently in the Akron-Beacon Journal:

“Poll workers from opposing sides in the presidential race apparently clashed in a physical altercation Friday at a Cuyahoga Falls nursing home when one accused the other of improperly marking a ballot. George Manon, the 75 year old Republican, told police that Edith Walker, the 73 year old Democrat, jumped on his back and struck him in the head three to four times with her fists. Manos said two other elections workers had to pull Walker off his back, according to a report filed with Cuyahaga Falls police.

Manos said it happened after he accused Walker of ballot tampering, and he wants to prosecute. The incident, which occurred about noon at Gardens of Western Reserve nursing home, is being investigated by both the police and the Summit County elections board.

Walker said in her statement that Manos tried to grab the ballot in question out of her hand. She said he accused her of marking the ballot wrong and she apologized to him if she did it, but she said: he was very mean to me.”

Politics brings out strong emotions. That is why many churches and pastors stay out of politics all together. I am not here to talk about the particular issues or give you my personal opinion. I would be happy to do that in private.

My job, my responsibility before God, is to point your attention to the Word of God; and talk about some guiding principles that apply to all areas of our lives, including politics. And then, it is up to you to take these biblical principles and make your own decisions; hopefully, seeking God’s will and direction. On the back of your outlines this morning, are some resources that might be helpful to you. The voter’s guides mentioned are on the welcome center table. You can use your own discretion to determine which of these resources will be helpful to you.
At times, listening to the political parties can be just frustrating and confusing – but usually interesting!

[cue debate music] [Steve and Kourtney shake hands]
THE DEBATE: RED vs. BLUE

Jen: Welcome to the first and probably the last debate held here at Grace. I am Jenn, and serving as your moderator today. This morning’s debate is unique because our guests debating are not the candidates themselves, but are representing the two major political parties. The color red will represent the Republican party, and the color blue will represent the Democratic party. Also, I will be asking questions that I am sure you have not heard in any of the previous debates this election season. I will ask our guests to introduce themselves at this time:

Kourtney: Thank you Jenn for moderating and to Grace for hosting us today. I am Kourtney, representing the Republican Party: Go Big Red!

Steve: I also want to thank Grace for hosting our debate; and of course you, Jenn, for being our moderator. I am Steve, representing the Democratic Party: Go Blue!

Jenn: Kourtney: Tell us a little bit about the history of the Red Party
Kourtney: Our party was created in 1854 in opposition to the Kansas-Nebraska Act that would have allowed the expansion of slavery into Kansas. The party founders adopted the name "Republican" to indicate it was the carrier of "republican" beliefs about civic virtue, and opposition to aristocracy and corruption. The symbol for our Party is the elephant, which cartoonist Thomas Nast created in 1874. From the beginning, our party was all about abolishing slavery, free speech and women’s suffrage.
Jenn: Steve, tell us a little about your Blue Party

Steve: Thomas Jefferson founded our party in 1792. Our Party's founders decided that wealth and social status were not an entitlement to rule. They believed that wisdom and compassion could be found within every individual and a stable government must be built upon a broad popular base. The late Ron Brown put it best when he wrote: “The common thread of Democratic history, from Thomas Jefferson to Bill Clinton, has been an abiding faith in the judgment of the hardworking American families, and a commitment to helping the excluded, the disenfranchised and the poor strengthen our nation by earning themselves a piece of the American Dream.”

Jenn: So, Steve, what do you think about Red’s mascot?

Steve: The Elephant? How ridiculous looking! It describes their party well, lumbering around, stepping all over our freedoms!

Jenn: Your response Kourtney?

Kourtney: Come on – Blue’s mascot is a donkey? Enough said!

Jenn: So, Steve, what are your 4 favorite bumper stickers right now?

Steve: I was hoping you would ask that Jenn! They are:
· End the War – Stop McCain
· Obama: Hope, not fear
· It would be insane to vote for McCain
· Pro Family – Pro Obama

Jenn: And Kourtney, what are your favorite bumper stickers right now?

Kourtney: My favorites are:
· Go Navy – Beat Obama
· 10 out of 10 terrorists agree: Vote for Obama
· Your wallet is the one place democrats are willing to drill
· Vote McCain not Hussein
Jenn: Kourtney, tell us a little about your candidate’s faith.

Kourtney: Well, Jenn, at the recent civil forum at Saddleback Church in California, our candidate was asked this question by Pastor Rick Warren: “You’ve made no doubt about your faith in Jesus Christ. What does it mean to you?” And this is how our candidate answered: “It means that I am saved and forgiven of my sins. When we are talking about the world, our faith encompasses not just the United States of America, but the entire world.” He went on to explain how his faith in Christ is played out in everyday life and even through difficult circumstances.

Jenn: And Steve, what about your candidate?

Steve: Well, our candidate was asked the same exact question as theirs, at the same forum, and this is how our candidate answered: “It means that Jesus Christ died for my sins and that I am redeemed through Him. That is a source of strength and sustenance on a daily basis…If I can get myself out of the way, I can do what He intends.” So, you can see, our candidate is a humble, completely dedicated Christian man.

[Jenn: Have either of you ever heard of Gene Amondson, Chuck Baldwin, Bob Barr, Roger Calero, Charles Jay, Gloria La Riva, Cynthia McKinney, Brian Moore, Thomas Stevens, or Ted Weill?

Kourtney: No

Steve: Nope.

Jenn: These are the presidential candidates from the following political parties:
Prohibition party; Constitution party; Libertarian party; Socialist workers party; Boston Tea party

Kourtney: Did you just say The Boston Tea Party?

Jenn: Yes: The Boston Tea Party, Socialism and Liberation party; the Green party; Socialist party; Objectivist Party; and the Reform party

Steve: Sorry - We only recognize, and the American people only care about the big two: Blue and Red.]

Jenn: So, let me ask both of you:
· Which Party cares more about women? Kourtney: Red Steve: Blue
· Which Party cares more about the middle class? Kourtney: Red Steve: Blue
· Which Party sticks closest to the United States Constitution? [same answers]
· Which Party is most economically responsible? [same answers]
· Which Party is most concerned with raising our level of education? [same]
· Which Party believes marriage is between a man and a woman? [same]
· Which Party believes there should be less abortions? [same answers]
· Which Party believes they can defeat terrorism? [same answers]
· Which Party is the real Party of change? [same answers]
· Which Party’s candidate won the first presidential debate? [same answers]
· How about the second debate? [same answers]
· And the third? [same answers]

Jenn: How about the vice presidential debate?

Steve: Our candidate knocked it out of the park!

Kourtney: Our candidate? She knocked it way out of the park!

Jenn: OK, last question. Steve, in your opinion, Who Would Jesus Vote For?

Steve: Well, that’s a no-brainer Jenn! Jesus would vote blue, across the board. He would vote for our candidate. Why? Because Jesus cares about the poor, like our party does. It’s all over Scripture. We are also concerned about the economy, and Jesus talked a lot about money. Jesus also said taxes were not necessarily a bad thing – don’t forget that! Jesus would see that we are most concerned about people, and therefore, He would most definitely vote BLUE!

Jenn: And Kourtney, in your opinion, Who Would Jesus Vote For?

Kourtney: That is an easy one Jenn. Jesus would, undoubtedly, vote for Red, across the board. He would vote for our candidate. Why? Because Jesus cares about the sanctity of life, just like we do. He cares about the ability to teach about Him in school, to pray, and to offer an alternative to evolution, just like we do. And Jesus would most definitely want a constitutional amendment on marriage, just like us! No doubt about it – Jesus would vote RED!

Jenn: Thank you Kourtney and Steve. And now the question goes to all of you: Who do you believe Jesus would vote for?

[We are taking a break from the gospel of Mark this morning to deal with an issue that is on most everyone’s mind at this time. It is a topic that churches struggle with how to present, if at all. It is the turbulent topic of politics. Even within this room this morning, there are a variety of views on politics, and some of those perspectives are backed with great emotion and a strong will. Many people become very passionate about politics; and there is good reason for that. I want to deal with it this morning because: God has led me to; it is something the Scriptures address; and we all need some biblical help to sort through all the political talk of today.

If you are looking for me to tell you who to vote for, you will be disappointed. As a pastor, I am uncomfortable telling you how to vote. I certainly have my personal viewpoints, and am happy to talk to people personally about politics and specifics. But, this morning, it is my goal and responsibility before God to share with you what God has to say about the principles of politics; so that you can then base your decisions on what He has to say, rather than me or a media outlet; or even other good Christian organizations.]

I want to have a conversation with you, this morning, about what God’s Word has to say to us, during this highly emotional, sometimes confusing political season.
Let’s consider some biblical principles on politics, as it relates to God; and then to us. Let’s begin with God:

[So, at our home, we received 2 different mailings: one from the Republican State Leadership committee; and one from the Ohio Democratic Party. They both had to do electing a state representative for District 16. And both of them, instead of saying why you should vote for their candidate, the whole mailing was about why you shouldn’t vote for the other candidate. In fact, the only picture on each mailing was a picture of their opponent. And the main accusation against the opponenent, for each side?:

Democratic ad: “Think your taxes are high enough already? Nan Baker wants to raise them even higher…She even fought against a $3.8 million property tax cut.”

Republican Ad: “Our budgets. Our bank accounts. Our businesses. All Running on Empty…Is there anything left in your wallet? State Representative Jennifer Brady co-sponsored legislation to raise Ohio income taxes…[and] supported higher taxes on both our incomes and our businesses.”

Both Ads negative and critical, about the very same issue. Have you listened to any of the debates? Both sides making accusations, taking some facts and using them for their own benefit. Both sides accusing the other side of distorting the truth. Both sides throwing out statistics and numbers and quotes that are very difficult to track down, as to their validity. And even newspapers, like the Plain Dealer, that try to tell you they are telling the truth about whose telling the truth in Ads…the newspapers have a slanted view as well – they all pick a candidate that they are backing; and you can tell.

Study it out. Read and listen to the voices you trust. Do the best you can to understand what is really going on. Then, go vote the way you believe God would want you to vote.]

1. God is neither Republican nor Democrat.

Now, that might be surprising to you Republicans…and Democrats. You independents are thinking: I knew it all along! You never see God taking a political side; and there is no reason to think, that if Jesus were here today, that He would always vote one way (Republican OR Democrat; or even register as such). If anything, He would most likely be an independent, who voted as He thought best at any given time.

When people wanted Jesus to do something, whether it were His enemies asking for him to perform miracles to prove His claims, or the crowds wanting Him to set up His Kingdom immediately; or His closest disciples, who did not want Him to go with the suffering and dying plan, Jesus always responded the same way: He voted with God the Father. In other words, no matter how compelling other’s arguments might be for what He should do, He always and only voted (lived) according to what God, the Heavenly Father wanted done.

Although we never hear of them, you probably know that there are other political parties out there and presidential candidates from those parties. There are independents as well, but all of these have found that they pretty much have no chance of winning unless they run as a Republican or Democrat. In the past, I have had extended family, and just recently a friend from my former church in Florida sent a mass e-mail out, backing the Constitution party. Many followers of Christ believe that the Constitution Party not only abides most closely to the Constitution but also to Christian principle. However, many Christians would never vote for anyone that they knew couldn’t win. Each believer, based on the fact that god is not affiliated with a party, must choose whom they think God would want them to vote for.

In the book of Joshua, Joshua was getting ready to fight a battle for Israel and He has an encounter with God, most likely another appearance of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament. Listen to this conversation:

Joshua 5:13,14 – “…And Joshua went up to him and asked, Are you for us or for our enemies? Neither, he replied, but as commander of the army of the LORD I have now come…”

Jesus, representing God the Father, did not take sides, even though it concerned His own people Israel. God was on His own side; and I don’t think that has changed. If you want to ask the question: God, are you the Republicans side or the Democrats side, I think God would say: neither. The question is whether or not you are pursuing what God wants you to do in every area of life, including how you vote and to what extent you are involved in politics.

[D. James Kennedy and Jerry Newcombe, in their book “How Would Jesus Vote”, address this issue of whose side God is on. “What Party Does God Claim? What side is God on? People have wanted to know that since the beginning of warfare. During the Civil War, people wondered which side God was on. Initially many pastors and their congregations were duped by Adolf Hitler. Journalist and historian William L. Shirer, author of The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, notes that some German Christians even drew up a resolution (which ultimately was not adopted) demanding One People, One Reich, One faith, and these same professing believers wanted to require all pastors to take a oath of allegiance to Hitler. Surely, God did not approve of Hitler’s anti-Jewish, anti-Christian, antifreedom regime.]


2. God is not American

[Are these Scriptures true?

Psalm 33:12 – “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!”

Proverbs 14:34 – “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”

Yes, of course they are true. But, first of all: I don’t think we could even say that the USA treats God as our LORD. And we are not the ones God has chosen as His heritage: it’s Israel. And would we really say that we are living as a righteous nation right now? We can certainly see how destructive sin is, in our personal lives and in our nation.]

I’m sure you know that is true; but many people act as though God were. We somehow think He loves America more than others and has promised us great things in the future. However, to be biblically honest with you, God has not promised us, as the United States of America, anything. I know not everyone agrees with that.

Someone just this past week asked me directly: “Do you see America in biblical prophecy”? I said something like this: No. Now, it might be there, and I’m just not scholarly enough to see it; but I don’t see it, clearly stated, that God makes any promises about the United States in particular. I know there are those who have interpreted certain passages of Scripture and say otherwise. I might be wrong. What this means, for me, is that if God chose to wipe out the United States of America, so that we were not even around for future biblical end times, that would completely up to Him. He would not be wrecking prophecy if the USA was not around in the future.

Do I believe that many of our founding fathers were true believers who included God in politics? Yes. Are there still many reminders in our country, that at one time, we had a great trust in God? Absolutely. The video we showed during the offering demonstrated that many of our Presidents looked to the Bible as their authority and to God for direction for the United States.

Well, what about the passage that is quoted so often:
II Chronicles 7:14 - “If my people, which are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways – I will hear from Heaven, forgive their sins and heal their land.”

That promise was not just for anyone – it was for Israel. Yes, I do believe in the principle of that verse. I think America should seek God and ask for forgiveness of her sins. But, even if she did, God would not be under no obligation to do anything for us (except forgive us) or keep us around any longer than what He originally planned. But, it is always a good idea to ask forgiveness for sins, to seek God and turn from wickedness. In most cases, that does bring God’s blessing and it is always a better way to live.

I like what author’s Kennedy and Newcombe had to say about this in their book: How Would Jesus Vote? : “God created only one country in the history of the world: ancient Israel. He did not create America. The United States is not the new Israel. The United States is not now nor ever was a theocracy, although the Puritans attempted to created such a colony in Massachusetts. That attempt failed, but because they culled the Word of God for biblical principles on government, law, civil liberties, education, and morality the Puritans have essentially served as the midwives of our current freedoms. We do not claim that God is on the side of the United States. What we do claim is that as many people as possible in the United States should strive to be on God’s side.”

3. God is God and we are not

[Daniel 4:35 – “All the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, What you have done?”

If only Roe v. Wade was overturned, then everything in America would be just right. If only we had prayer in schools, then God would bless us. Although your guy being elected and your choices are ruling on the supreme court; and if you could choose what laws were overturned and what happened in the public schools, would we then have God’s complete blessing?]

This principle applies to everything, but it certainly includes politics. It begins with the willingness to admit that we don’t always know what is best; and we certainly cannot fully control what happens. Even those who are committing voter fraud are not ultimately, in control. We need to be careful not to adopt the attitude that God might be making a mistake.

Job is a character in the Bible that is given to us as a great example of trusting God, while going through terrible loss and suffering. But, in the midst of it all, Job did challenge God as to why He was allowing these things to happen in his life. And God responded to Job, with some rhetorical questions. Look at:
*Job 38:4 – “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth…”

*Job 38:12 – “Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place?”

*Job 38:36 – “Who has put wisdom in the inward parts or given understanding to the mind?”

*Job 40:2 – “Shall a faultfinder contend with the Almighty? He who argues with God, let him answer it.”

What was God’s main message to Job? “Job, listen: I am God. I created the Universe. I have all wisdom. You concentrate on obeying me; and let me take care of the rest of the world, including the circumstances in your life that seem unfair.” God would say the same things to us; even in the midst of this election season; especially if things don’t go the way you think they should go.

Here are two key verses and universal biblical truths to keep in mind, for all of life:
God said this, and it applies to all of us:

Isaiah 55:8 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.

Psalm 115:3 – “Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.”

You can let these truths frustrate you; or you can embrace them as a great comfort, and draw strength from them, regardless of your circumstances.

Please turn in your Bible to the book of Exodus, which is the second book of the Bible – just after Genesis.

4. God’s goal is to glorify Himself

What might be our goals in life and politics do not necessarily match God’s. A great example of what God is trying to do, using all political situations as His tool, is found here in Exodus: God had sent Joseph to Egypt so that He could use Joseph to preserve His own people Israel, once the famine came. The nation of Israel was in Egypt and well taken care of. However, Joseph died and then we read this:


Exodus 1:8 – “Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph.”
· And that ruler (also known as Pharoah) decided that Israel needed to be controlled…

*Exodus 1:10,11 – “Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply, and , if war breaks out, they join our enemies and fight against us and escape from the land. Therefore they set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens…”

*Exodus 1:12– “But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad…”

*Exodus 1:13 – “So they ruthlessly made the people of Israel work as slaves.”

*Exodus 1:15– “Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives…”

*Exodus 1:16 – “When you serve as midwife to the Hebrew women and see them on the birthstool, if it is a son, you shall kill him, but if it is a daughter, she shall live.”

Go to chapter 3. So, here was an evil ruler, oppressing God’s people; and killing babies. The people of Israel cried out because of their bondage. God heard them and appointed Moses (read about his incredible story in Exodus 2) to go to the ruler, Pharoah, and demand that His people be let go…

*Exodus 3:19,20 – “But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless compelled by a mighty hand. So I will stretch out my hand and strike Egypt with all the wonders that I will do in it; after that he will let you go.”

Turn over to chapter 7.
So, God says that Pharoah would not let the people go at first; and He would send some plagues to convince him to do so. But, not only would Pharoah harden his own heart, as the plagues were being sent to Egypt, God explains that He would play a major role in how Pharoah would respond.

[Exodus 4:21 – “…[God said] I will harden his heart…”
Exodus 9:12 – “But the LORD hardened the heart of Pharoah, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had spoken to Moses.”
Exodus 10:20 – “But the LORD hardened Pharoah’s heart, and he did not let the people of Israel go.”
Exodus 10:27 – “But the LORD hardened Pharoah’s heart, and he would not let them go.”
Exodus 11:10 – “…and the LORD hardened Pharoah’s heart…”]

You have turned to Exodus 7. Look at what God says to Moses in…

*Exodus 7:3-5 – “But I will harden Pharoah’s heart, and though I multiply my signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, Pharoah will not listen to you. Then I will lay my hand on Egypt and bring my hosts, my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great acts of judgment. The Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch out my hand against Egypt and bring out the people of Israel from among them.”

Here we have the connection between God hardening Pharoah’s heart, and one of the major reasons why: so that Pharoah would not let God’s people go until God was done using him. And primarily, what God wanted to accomplish is mentioned right here in verse 5: “The Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD.” This is the name for God that refers to Him as the covenant keeping God of Israel; even the God that can be trusted to keep His promises. Egypt was going to learn the truth about God.

[There are other mentions of what God was trying to accomplish:
Exodus 7:17 – “…by this you shall know that I am the LORD…”
Exodus 8:10 – “…that you may know that there is no one like the LORD our God.”
Exodus 8:22 – “…that you may know that I am the LORD in the midst of the earth.”
Exodus 9:14 – “…that you may know that there is none like me in all the earth.”
Exodus 9:29 – “…so that you may know that the earth is the LORD’s.”
Exodus 11:9 – “Then the LORD said to Moses, Pharoah will not listen to you, that my wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt.”]

Go to chapter 10. God was also going to teach His own people about Himself:

*Exodus 10:1,2 – “Then the LORD said to Moses, Go in to Pharoah, for I have hardened his heart and the heart of his servants, that I may show these signs of mine among them, and that you may tell in the hearing of your son and of your grandson how I have dealt harshly with the Egyptians and what signs I have done among them, that you may know that I am the LORD.”

This was God talking to Moses and to Israel, His people, saying they also, His own people, would see what God was doing, and were to know who He was; and to continue, then, to worship Him alone. That was the goal. Now, come back one chapter and listen to what God has to say, directly to Pharoah, about why He was put in that position of power:

Exodus 9:16 – “But for this purpose I have raised you up, to show you my power, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth.”

Did you catch that? Let me read it one more time. It’s also on the screen:
Exodus 9:16 – “But for this purpose I have raised you up, to show you my power, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth.”

God claimed responsibility for Pharoah being in the position of leadership he was in. This leader, that all of God’s people would call evil…this leader, who killed babies…this leader, who brought incredible suffering on God’s people…this leader was chosen by God. But, he wasn’t chosen because he was a Christian, or because he would promote God’s ways. He was chosen, as God explained, because it was through His evil rule, that God would show His own power and reveal Himself to all. This was God’s doing. Here is a biblical truth, that not only applies to Pharoah in Exodus, but to all rulers who have taken power in every nation ever since:

Psalm 75:7 – “But it is God who executes judgment, putting down one and lifting up another.”

Daniel 2:21 – “…Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might…He removes kings and sets up kings…”

God is in control of who wins elections.

Please turn in your Bible to I Timothy, chapter 2. In the Bible in front of you, it is page 1027 or 1053.

Now: Based on what has been revealed about God, we need to consider our response; and ask the all important question:

SO WHAT? What does God expect of us, as it relates to politics?

[What are some other things we are to remember about our responsibility to those in authority?

· Pay your taxes (fulfill your responsibilities)
Jesus encouraged the people to pay the taxes that they were subjected to.
He did not encourage them to withhold payment or try to cheat the government:

Matthew 22:17,21 – “Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not…Then he said to them, Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

· Obey the laws unless they contradict God’s Word

Romans 13:1,2 – “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.”

The followers of Christ, from the beginning, obeyed the laws of the State. Even if the politicians were corrupt and the government was adverse to Christianity; which it was in almost every case back then. The only time they were encouraged not to obey, was when the State asked them to do something the Bible for bid them to do. When the Apostles were asked to explain why they kept preaching the gospel, even though they were jailed and beaten and told not to, they explained:

Acts 5:29 – “…We must obey God rather than men.”]

1. Trust in God, not in man

Israel learned this as they had to face opponents like Goliath and see God use a boy with a slingshot to bring him down and the entire Philistine army to their knees. King Saul of Israel was trusting in man but David put His trust in God; and God did His thing.

It is easy to think: If only this guy gets elected, then everything will be fine. If only that guy gets appointed to the supreme court. What can happen is that we begin to trust in man, putting hope in a certain candidate or a certain court or a certain piece of legislation. We have to be careful. Even when there was Theocracy, where God ruled in Israel, they still sinned, and eventually replaced God’s rule with a King of their own. All human rulers have their limitations and are just a breath.

The only one who has been here all along and will never go away, is the one and only true God. Should you pray that God would put godly men and women in leadership? Sure! Should you do your part, get involved in politics and vote for followers of Christ that are pursuing what is important to you? Absolutely. I hope more Christians become involved in politics. But, when things are not going your way, or those believers aren’t able to accomplish what you had hoped, there is still one you can trust in, who knows what He is doing.

Psalm 146:3,4 – “Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish. Blessed is he…whose hope is in the LORD his God.”

Jeremiah 17:7 – “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD.”

2. Pray

[When it comes to prayer, we need to be careful what we attribute to God. What do you think of this story forwarded by e-mail, by a pastor in Ohio?

Tuesday at 2:00 A.M. - God spoke these words to me - "Go turn the Radio
on!" Immediately the Reporter's Words were - "McCain & Palin Bus to be
in Lebanon later this morning for a 10:00 A.M. Rally!" God said, "You are to go. You will meet them and give them a message for Me!"The News would later report they were expecting 5,000 people and the actual head-count of those who had been scanned was more than 10,000 people.

I simply obeyed and God actually told me where to stand, who to talk to
and when to be on the move. As I was standing there, two Boy Scouts came running up my back-literally, they almost knocked me to the ground because they were running so fast behind me up my back and over to the right.
The Scout Leader grabbed me and told me bring the other Scouts up front.
I just became the leader of the rest of the Scouts to lead them right up front and center.

When I got there I was fifteen feet from the podium. GOD said, "Stand here, and don't move from this spot.” A little lady who stood by me, reached up and told the Rep that they had promised a Picture with her because she was the one who had lost a son in Iraq, recently.

When McCain came to hug the lady, he immediately shook my hand and
following his moment with her, I shook his hand and said, "God wants you to know that I'm praying for you, Sir!" He thanked me and kept smiling. I repeated that phrase to him five times. He grabbed my hands and looked right into my
eyes and said, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!"

As he moved to my right, Sarah Palin came over and got on her hands and knees and hugged that the little lady who had lost the son, telling her, "It was not
in vain." It was at this moment that Sarah Palin reached out for me to help her up
and as I was assisting her to stand I was now face to face with her and
GOD said, "Open up your Mouth and I will fill it."

Here is what came out... "God wants you to know that you are a present day Esther! [She immediately began to cry]! God wants to tell you that you are Chosen for such a time as this! You are called, and chosen to be a leader. Don't lose heart and don't fear man. Keep your eyes on GOD and know that He has chosen you to Reign! Stay strong. Be strong. Don't tire. Don't be weary in well-doing. Be strong."

If you believe God reveals something to you in prayer, then you should examine it according to the Scriptures, and consider that it may be God’s Spirit directing you to do something. What we must be very careful with, is making some type of predictions or prophecies, as though God is revealing new truth to us. If this pastor’s prophecy about Sarah Palin does not come true, it doesn’t mean that God made a mistake – it means that this pastor sinned in making a false prophecy and attributing it to God] Please look at:

*I Timothy 2:1,2 – “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions…”

We would all agree that we should pray for our leaders. But, keep in mind, that in that day, their kings, their leaders were opponents of Christianity. And the concerns the believers had were far from abortion and an amendment on marriage. They were concerned about persecution and death just because they were believers! And yet, in the midst of that kind of persecution, what did God tell them He wanted them to do? Picket? Protest? Politic? Nope. He told them to do the one thing they could do, which they could control – the one positive thing that God knew would made the greatest difference – PRAY

And this has not changed for us today. I’m not saying you shouldn’t be involved in politics or even picket and protest if you choose. But, what I am saying is what the Bible emphasizes, even if the government and its leaders are not godly – we are to pray for them. But, did you catch what else? This leads us to a third application:

3. Focus on heart change

It is easy to focus on a political party or a piece of legislation. It is easy to focus on all the things we wish were right in the world, according to us. But, the real focus must be where real change comes from. The Focus must be on heart change. And there is only one person who can change a heart. People must be introduced to Him.

Did you notice the verses we just read that have to do with prayer? Notice verse 2:
[praying]… “for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. [why]?

*I Timothy 2:3-5 – “This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”

Did you see that? What is this all about? Why are we to be praying, even for corrupt rulers? And why, instead of overthrowing the government, are we to pray for the strength and grace to live quiet and peaceable lives? Because: it’s all about the gospel! What is important to God, regardless of the political circumstances, is that we live rightly; even loving our enemies, so that they can see the light, the truth, through us.

So, if you are arguing with someone about politics, and being unloving as you do it, don’t think you are honoring God. If you are, in any way being an obstacle to the gospel, as you passionately pursue your politics, you are being an obstacle to God and what is most important to Him. There is a way to be passionate about politics and honor God; and that is by being much more passionate about the good news of Jesus Christ – because it changes lives for eternity!

When Jesus’ followers began sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, they endured incredible persecution. But that did not wipe out their testimony or Christianity. In fact, Christianity exploded and grew through the time of persecution. We would look at it as the worst thing that could happen; and yet God saw it as positive, for one reason – people’s hearts were being changed.

We do live in a land that has been blessed by God; even though we don’t deserve it. I am so thankful for the freedoms God has given us. But, there are times that God takes away those freedoms in order to do what is more important to Him than our religious liberty – and ironically, he took away liberty in order to promote the gospel! Isn’t that something! We pray God will not choose to do the same thing here; but He might.

[What if you could have the government exactly the way you wanted it: With a president who shared your views, a supreme court who voted your way, and the Ten Commandments as the law of the land? Would that make us a God honoring nation? Not necessarily. The only way to have real, lasting change that will honor God is to have people’s hearts changed. We can get so focused on changing the politicians and legislation, that we forget this very fundamental principle. The focus for us, when it comes to politics, must be the gospel: the good news of Jesus Christ.]

4. Live in love, not fear

I received this e-mail recently:
“If the [fill in the political party] win the upcoming election, America as we have known it will no longer exist. This country that we love, founded on Judeo-Christian values, will cease to exist and will be replaced by a secular state hostile to Christianity… The damage will be permanent.

[AFA letter continued: This “city set on a hill” which our forefathers founded, will go dark. The damage will be deep and long lasting. It cannot be turned around in the next election, or the one after that, or by any election in the future. That is why it is so important for you to vote and to encourage friends and family to vote. This is one election where your vote really counts.”] – Donald Wildmon, founder and chairman of the American Family Association

I also, this past week, received a forwarded message from one of our missionaries, who was sending me an article from World Net Daily. It was entitled: Trail of Terror – Islamic takeover of U.S. already under way: "We estimate thousands of terrorists have already been smuggled into America. ... Hamas is here. ... They have cells in over 40 states. ... They asked: "What happens if a [particular party is named here] wins the 2008 election?" The answer: "We are doomed. Our enemies want the (particular party) to win. This last election, jihadist websites were playing victory songs and declaring the (particular party) are our allies in the war against America," she said.

[Continued world net daily: We also need to reform our immigration and visa programs. We need to monitor who is coming into our country and why. ... We need to increase human intelligence. … I want everyone who fits the terrorist profile to be profiled. We have men between the ages of 16 and 40 who have committed terrorist acts around the world in the name of Islam. They are not little old ladies from Ohio with blue hair. They are not children going to Disney World on their Easter vacation," she said. ]

Then, I also received several forwarded e-mails from Dr. John Tisdale, President of Anchor Bible Institute at McAllen, TX. Part of one of those e-mails said this:

“How long is the beast allowed to have authority in Revelations? Revelations Chapter 13 tells us it is 42 months, and you know what that is? Almost a four-year term of a Presidency. According to The Book of Revelations the anti-Christ willbe a man, in his 40's, of MUSLIM descent, who will deceive the nations withpersuasive language, and have a MASSIVE Christ-like appeal....the prophecy saysthat people will flock to him and he will promise false hope and world peace,and when he is in power, will destroy everything..Do we recognize this description? Is it (a particular presidential candidate is named).

It is so easy to rely on fear to get people to do what we want them to do. And it is possible if you have been reading e-mails and listening to various Christian organizations that you are very fearful of what might happen if the election doesn’t go your way. I can understand that. I have many fears of my own. But, I don’t think it is the way God wants us to approach this topic or any other.

All of these things are meant to motivate us to vote a certain way; but what they really do is drive us to fear. The Bible warns against that:
I John 4:18 – “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear…”

II Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

We are not to live in fear, or use fear tactics to manipulate people to vote how we want them to vote. We have to be very careful of what we accuse people of, including presidential candidates or political parties, making broad stroke statements that may not be true; especially of everyone who supports a particular party or candidate. Plus, some of these are simply not biblically true, and to assert such things is misusing the Scriptures. And those who choose to do that, even for what they consider to be a good cause, are not honoring God.

Instead, we are to have His strength and confidence, that no matter who is elected; and no matter what happens, we have a God who is all powerful, the God of truth, and we are to be on His side, regardless of our political views. Speaking about believers in Bible days, that were persecuted for their faith, but considered heroes:

Hebrews 11:13,16 – These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth…But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God for he has prepared for them a city.”

Those who were persecuted for their faith were not despairing because things weren’t the way they wanted them in the government here on Earth. They were keeping their attention on the future, on their home in Heaven. They didn’t look at their dwelling here as the only thing that mattered; but instead, they knew this was a temporary dwelling place; and what really mattered was the eternity to come with God in Heaven. If we can keep our focus there as well, then the things of this Earth, including politics doesn’t have to drive us into fear and depression. It can, instead, take us closer to God, to live for eternity rather than expecting Heaven here.

So, the answer you have all been waiting for: Who would Jesus Vote for?
This is probably not the answer you were hoping for. But, based on what I have just shared with you , I think the answer is this:
· Jesus would vote for the one that He knew was the will of God. Whomever, for this time in history, would be the one used by God to do His purposes for His glory would be whom Jesus would vote for.
· [John 5:30 – “I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.”]

And sorry to tell you this: but I don’t know who that is. And you may think you know who that is: but you don’t – not for sure. God sometimes surprises us , doesn’t He?

[How would Jesus vote? Abraham Lincoln put it best in 1863 when he heard someone remark that he hoped ‘the Lord was on the Union’s side.’ Here is how Lincoln responded: ‘I am not at all concerned about that, for I know that the Lord is always on the side of the right. But it is my constant anxiety and prayer that I and this nation should be on the Lord’s side’.”]

If God doesn’t choose your guy, then please realize it is His guy, for this time, for His own purposes, whether we like the guy or not; whether he is godly or not. This is about what God is doing. If your guy doesn’t get elected, you don’t need to get depressed, mourn for days or leave the country. Instead, there are some things the Bible would encourage us to do, based on these principles about God and politics.

So, what should you do?
Pray, pray, and pray some more. Get involved in politics. Read and listen to people you respect; and consider your political views. Ask God what He would want you to do. And then, go vote. And then…keep your focus on the God who is in control.

Will you pray with me please? Based on this, I would like for us to close this time with some silent prayer and meditation. Listen to a song that reminds us who is in control; and that we need to respond to Him in love and praise, as we trust Him, even during these days. Take a few moments to pray; and then consider your response to God’s Word this morning as you listen to the song.

Let’s pray:
Song: Let My Words Be Few [Phillips, Craig and Dean] – Linda Kuyper



Resources:

Saddleback Community Church (interview from a faith perspective with the presidential candidates)
www.saddlebackcivilforum.com
click on “view past forums”, then click on “presidential”

Ohio Christian Alliance (voter guides available at welcome center table-while supplies last)
www.OhioCA.org
330.887.1922

Focus on the Family
www.focusvoter.com

Citizens for Community Values (find more information on the specific people and issues you will be voting for in your area)
www.Ohioelectioncentral.com

Desiring God Ministries (for an article on one issue voting: abortion)
www.desiringgod.org
search: One issue politics (click enter), then choose article: One-Issue Politics, One-issue Marriage and Humane Society – by John Piper – January 1, 1995

Book: Is God on America’s Side? The Surprising Answer and How It Affects Our Future
By Erwin w. Lutzer, pastor of Moody Bible Church in Chicago, Illinois

Book: How Would Jesus Vote: A Christian Perspective on the Issues
By D. James Kennedy and Jerry Newcombe