What is the role of the Christian in politics?

Can a disciple of Christ or the church herself be involved in politics?

Some Christians think that the church has no political role to play, and the individual Christian, at most, a minuscule part. This view stems from the concept that Christ's kingdom is not of this world.

Other Christians insist that both individuals and the church have great socio-political responsibilities to improve living conditions.

Some Christians go further and claim that Christianity's main task is to work toward creating a Christian political order that will result in establishing the kingdom of God on earth.

Let us look at the example of Jesus Christ.

Jesus never referred to the type of political society to which His disciples should aspire.

He did not claim to be a socio-political reformer or crusader.

He did not enunciate any political platform. The temptations in the wilderness clearly opened up a political dimension and He resisted them.

Even though He had more than one opportunity to take over society's rule by a sort of coup d'état (e.g., the feeding of the multitude and the triumphant entry into Jerusalem), He did not choose that option.

At the same time, the teachings of Jesus are bound to have significant socio-political fallout when lived by the Christian community.

He offered good news for the poor, liberty for the oppressed, and "life in all its fullness" (John 10:10: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Therefore, contemporary Christians, following the example of believers throughout the centuries, must acknowledge a social responsibility resting on their shoulders.

Christian socio-political responsibility is based on two biblical foundations.

First, the doctrine of Creation.
God created the universe and established us as the ruling stewards of this world. Stewardship entails both responsibility and accountability for the domain over which one has jurisdiction.

Second, the doctrine of humanity.
Human beings are created in the image of God. The Christian view is that men and women are not an accidental speck on the sea of life, but persons with a responsible role to play and a radiant future. This human potential gives purpose, direction, and optimism to Christians serving others in a communal setting.

Thus Commitment to Jesus Christ means commitment to all God's creation especially to mankind and commitment brings responsibility for the welfare of others.

 Paul Weresch