Joshua 5:13-15
Introduction
We have come to a point in society where there is not only divisiveness in culture, but also in the church. Disharmony, disunity and conflict abound from the outside and from within. The result? Confusion from both believers and unbelievers about who God is and how God functions with regard to society and government. With an upcoming election and so many differing opinions, how Christians should vote becomes seemingly, even more complicated. The answer is not found by just choosing one side of the aisle to identify with, but rather by holding fast to a Kingdom agenda instead of a political one.
So, what do we do when our nation seems to be unraveling with so much division? Far too many Christians choose to cherry-pick from the Bible, making it fit their individual perspectives and political posturing rather than looking to the Word of God to inform their decisions. We wonder why there is such disagreement among those professing Christ and why this time of the year seems so emotionally charged. The truth is simple: neither side—Republican nor Democrat—embraces the entirety of a Kingdom mindset. Trying to fit a Kingdom agenda within one of those boxes is impossible.
Even so, the fact remains that, as Christians, we still need to make a decision on election day. Becoming a Kingdom Voter means taking the opportunity and responsibility to partner with God by expanding His rule in society through civil government. It is only to the degree that we include God’s character and wisdom in our choices for government leaders and policies that we can begin to see healing in our country. As we partner with God in His Kingdom purposes, we have the opportunity to influence culture towards His will. If we are going to see God intervene in the affairs of a collapsing society, we need to return to Him, not simply in theory, but also in practice by embracing His person and guidelines so we can experience His presence.
The Bible tells the redemptive plan of God’s glory through the expansion of His kingdom. Once you abandon that pursuit, you have forgotten the Bible. Once you have forgotten the Bible, you have forgotten God. Our choice on election day is not for red or blue, but for God’s glory alone. As Joshua learned, God is not looking to pick a side created and divided by people, but rather He wants people to join Him on His side (Josh 5:13-14). Instead of bowing down to a political persuasion or social cause, are you willing to be like Joshua? Are you willing to bow down and take a knee for God? Hold loosely to the man-made political identities and join the Lord as a Kingdom Voter, pledging your allegiance to God alone.
Getting Started
- What do you allow to influence your decision most when it comes to politics? The Bible, a political party, a person or culture?
- After hearing this week’s sermon, how can you choose to take a knee for God alone? How can you show your true allegiance in the face of great division?
Let’s Get Personal
- In what areas of your life have you abandoned the responsibility of partnering with God?
- Where might your allegiance be demonstrated to something other than God?
- Are you a Kingdom Voter, or do you find yourself over-identifying with a political party? How is that mindset keeping you from partnering with God in His purposes and plans?
Take the Next Step
- We’re reminded in 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:1, “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain.” How can you encourage others to do this?
- How are recent events providing an opportunity for you to demonstrate a Kingdom mindset?
- Want to go deeper? Take a look at the following passages: 2 Corinthians 6:1; Psalm 22:28; 33:12; 103:19; Daniel 2:21; and Romans 3:4.
Renew Your Mind
“. . . Joshua went to him and said to him, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?”
He said, “No; rather I indeed come now as captain of the host of the Lord.”
And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and bowed down . . .”
Joshua 5:13-14
