Scripture will not explicitly
tell you who to vote for (and neither will I), but it says a lot that should
inform your decision. Whether it is by the example of good leaders, descriptions of perfect
leadership, express directions to more fallible leaders of old, proverbs about
government, or teaching about how citizens should relate to their leaders,
Scripture has a LOT to say.
God’s word is infallible, it is
incisive, and provides light to direct our paths. It is worth far, far, more
than any 30 second ad paid for by a super PAC, so it simply
cannot be ignored. We must read it, think and pray about it before we vote, whether
its for president or dog catcher.
To help in that process, I have
set out scriptures that address government and how leaders should and shouldn’t
act. They are arranged topically. To avoid bias, I am presenting them in the order in which they are most frequently addressed, in accord with the principle that the more God brings a topic up the more important it is.
The are hyperlinks going to multiple translations of most of the scriptures cited. Hyperlinks that are italicized are to verses illustrating the principle by negative example.
The are hyperlinks going to multiple translations of most of the scriptures cited. Hyperlinks that are italicized are to verses illustrating the principle by negative example.
Must strive for fair justice, to
maintain the rule of law for all, including the weak
Must be sensitive to the
weak/disadvantaged
Recognizes the need to repent
Recognizes that all success/authority comes from God
Seeks God’s guidance
Able to delegate/ rely on
subordinates and to pick honest ones
Rooted in God’s Word
Courageous
Intercedes for the people with God
Refuses gifts that corrupt
Does public works projects
Affirmatively seeks to help the
people
Ezekiel 34:11-16
Does not place emphasis on personal
gain
Isaiah
56:11
Seeks/heeds Good Counsel
Provides for a strong defense
Is gracious to those who opposed
him/did him wrong
Brings the people back to God
Does not drink to excess
Is Humble
Respected by other nations
Engages in foreign trade
Allows immigration/fair to
immigrants
Goes to the people
Goes to God in times of adversity
Truthful/honest
Is not ashamed of worshipping God
Generosity
Equitably distributes
resources/burdens
Taxation
Is responsive to the people
Is diligent
Not deterred by opposition
Does not womanize
Provides Stability
Understands human nature
Investigates/understands/
researches the matters to be dealt
with
Calm, not easily angered
1 Timothy
3:3
Titus 1:7
Has foresight
Seeks wisdom
Encourages his subordinates
Attends to preparing his successor
Does not tolerate euthanasia
Avoids rash promises
Leads by example
Alert to danger
