THE CHRISTIAN AND POLITICS. (by Bro. Kunle Eniola COC Ajibode, Ibadan)

THE CHRISTIAN AND POLITICS.

Kunle Eniola 
Introduction

Beloved brethren, politics is an integral part of human society. It influences leadership, laws, and
the direction of nations. As Christians living in this world, we cannot completely avoid its effects.
Yet the question remains: What should be the Christian’s proper attitude toward politics?
Many have gone to extremes—some completely withdrawing, others becoming so entangled that
their faith is overshadowed. The Word of God provides a balanced approach that helps us live
faithfully in any political environment.
1. God Is Sovereign Over All Governments
The Scriptures make it clear that all authority ultimately originates from God.
In Romans 13:1–2, the apostle Paul teaches that “there is no authority except from God, and the
authorities that exist are appointed by God.” Likewise, Daniel 2:21 remind us that God “removes
kings and raises up kings.” Even our Lord Jesus Christ affirmed this truth in John 19:11, when
He told Pilate that his authority had been given “from above.”
This means that no government rises or falls outside the knowledge and permission of God. For
this reason, Christians must not place their ultimate trust in political systems or leaders. While
governments change, God remains constant; therefore, instead of anxiety or anger, we are called
to respond with faith and to pray for those in authority.
2. The Christian’s True Citizenship
Though we live in earthly nations, our primary citizenship is not here.
In Philippians 3:20, Paul declares, “Our citizenship is in heaven.” Jesus Himself said in John
18:36, “My kingdom is not of this world.” This teaches us that our loyalty to God must always
come before any allegiance to a nation, political party, or ideology.
A Christian must never allow political identity to overshadow spiritual identity. Our thinking,
decisions, and convictions must be guided by Scripture rather than by party loyalty or societal
pressure.
3. The Christian’s Responsibility to Government
A. Obedience to Law
The Bible instructs Christians to be law-abiding citizens.
2
Romans 13:3–7 and 1 Peter 2:13–14 command submission to governing authorities.
In practical terms, this means obeying laws, paying taxes, and conducting ourselves honorably in
society so that our lives reflect the righteousness we profess.
B. Respect for Leaders
In 1 Peter 2:17, we are told to “honour the king.” Even when leaders are imperfect, respect is
still required.
Christians must therefore avoid abusive speech, insults, or slander against those in authority.
Disagreement may be necessary, but it must always be expressed with dignity, self-control, and
godly character.
C. Obedience to God Above All
There are limits to human authority.
In Acts 5:29, the apostles boldly declared, “We ought to obey God rather than men.”
Whenever human laws contradict God’s commands, the Christian must stand firmly on the side
of God. This may involve sacrifice, opposition, or even suffering, but faithfulness to God must
never be compromised.
4. Christian Participation in Politics
The Bible does not explicitly command or forbid political participation such as voting or holding
public office, but it gives guiding principles.
In Matthew 5:13–16, Christians are described as “salt” and “light,” called to influence the world
for good. Micah 6:8 teaches us to “do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.”
With this understanding, Christians may engage in political processes in ways that promote
justice, truth, and righteousness. However, such involvement must never lead to compromise.
Corruption, dishonesty, hatred, and violence must be rejected, and one’s faith must always
remain intact and uncompromised.
5. Dangers of Misplaced Political Involvement
There are serious dangers when Christians lose balance in political matters.
One danger is the idolatry of politics—treating a party or leader as though they are a savior.
Another is division within the body of Christ, which contradicts the teaching of 1 Corinthians
1:10. There is also the danger of compromising truth by adjusting biblical standards to fit
political agendas.
3
Because of these risks, unity in Christ must always take priority over political differences. The
church must remain a place of spiritual fellowship, not political conflict, and truth must always
be upheld without bias.
6. The Christian’s Primary Mission
The central mission of the Christian is not political reform but spiritual transformation.
In Matthew 28:19–20, Jesus gave the Great Commission—to make disciples of all nations. In 2
Corinthians 5:20, we are called “ambassadors for Christ.”
While governments can change laws, only the gospel can change hearts. Therefore, the
Christian’s greatest impact on society comes through preaching the truth, living righteously, and
leading others to Christ rather than becoming consumed with political struggles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Christian must maintain a balanced and faithful approach to politics:
 Recognize God’s sovereignty over all governments
 Live as citizens of heaven first
 Obey and respect authorities
 Stand with God when conflicts arise
 Avoid political extremism and division
 Focus on the mission of Christ
Politics is temporary, but the kingdom of God is eternal. Let us therefore keep our faith pure, our
allegiance clear, and our mission focused—serving God above all else.
Bro. ‘Kunle Eniola preaches for the Church at the University of Ibadan, Ajibode, Ibadan.
kunleeniola05@gmail.com/ +2348039558461.

Comments

  1. Sunday Tope18 April 2026 at 08:42

    Excellent Delivery. This is nothing but the truth

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anonymous18 April 2026 at 12:20

    You deliver well. God bless u more my minister

    ReplyDelete

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