A Christian Approach to Voting in General Elections

1. A Christian approach to voting in General Elections Romans 13 verses 1 -7

2. Romans 13: Respect for Authority 1 Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. 2 So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. 3 For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honour you. 4 The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you.

3. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. 5 So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. 6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honour to those who are in authority.

4. To be read alongside…. Mark 12: 17 “Well, then,” Jesus said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” His reply completely amazed them. Acts 4: 19 But Peter and John replied, “Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? 20 We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.” Acts 5: 29 But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than any human authority. 1 Peter 2: 14 Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God and respect the King.

5. What factors or principles guide your decision about how you will vote? Are the character and values of a candidate, more important than their party’s policies?

6. From a Biblical world-view, how do we see the role of a government and its values? • to maintain law, order and justice & national security • to create the environment for a productive economy and to provide work for citizens • to provide public services and administration, protect individual freedom and foster community & social responsibility – “the common good” • to protect the vulnerable, disadvantaged and poor, and our environment.

7. What factors or principles guide your decision about who to vote for? 1. Evaluate politicians and policies according to Biblical principles. Do they: • Show trustworthiness, honesty, integrity • Seek to protect human dignity and individual freedom • Respect and strengthen family life, marriage & parenting • Foster community and serve the common good • Promote meaningful employment • Express concern and justice for the poor, disadvantaged and vulnerable • Maintain law and order, justice, and national security • Promote social and ethical policies that are consistent with Biblical morality and ethics.

8. 2. Be concerned about the moral direction and general values of a political party and candidate. • It is generally unwise to vote on a single issue. • Support policies in the best interests of all Nzers. • Be strategic in your voting.

9. The P.I.E.V.E Project – Pastor Rasik Ranchord Pray for those in authority (1 Tim 2 v1-2) Informed about politicians, policies and issues Enrol (a legal requirement) Vote (a privilege and responsibility) Encourage (five others to do the same)