America is in transition and it faces a crisis. The inauguration of January 2009 made history when America inaugurated its first African American President. It was the most celebrated inauguration ever as many countries around the world pre-empted regular programming to broadcast the proceedings.
Today we look at the New Testament teaching about the Christian's attitude toward government and its leaders. Many Christians opposed Obama’s politics believing that it did not represent Christian values. At this point the candidate you supported during the campaign is no longer an issue. Barrack Obama is our President. The pulpit is not for politics, it is for expounding the Word of God and should speak to politics only where the Word of God speaks to it.
What should be the Christians attitude toward our nation’s highest official and the government? We are to pray that God will give wisdom to lead in peace and safety. They have a job of awesome responsibility; they have human weaknesses and will falter. When that happens, pray even more, and continue to give him the support and honor and respect their office deserves.
CALLING ALL CHRISTIANS
1 Timothy 2:1-4
What does the New Testament say about the attitude Christians should have toward government and its leaders?
1. Pray For Those in Leadership
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. I Timothy 2:1-2 KJV
Notice these words
Urge - I strongly advise you to do this
First of all - This is at the top of your list
Pray…for everyone - specifically our leaders.
What kind of prayers are we to offer?
A. Intercession
Before you criticize, condemn, complain, or pass judgment, you pray.
The more wrong you think leaders are the harder you need to pray.
B. Thanksgiving
Be thankful, for the 44th time our nation has experienced a peaceful transfer of power.
Be thankful, we live in a country where race, gender, or economic status is not barriers to advancement.
Be thankful we have a voice to speak political convictions without fear of reprisal.
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Romans13:1
2. When You Talk Politics, Speak With Honor and Respect
Christians are responsible to honor and respect the dignity of the office without regards to the person in it.
Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king." 1 Peter 2:17 NIV
3. Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing
Pray for good government so that we are free to do the work of God.
God "...wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth..." 1 Timothy 2:4
