By Elaine Hewitt

Lately, there has been much discussion on trying to keep the church out of politics. 

And, by the church, I mean Christians. Often referred to as the “evangelical vote,” Christians are often told there’s no place for God in politics. Many say the U.S. is not a “Christian nation.” A local former high school history teacher recently tried to remind readers that the founders separated church and state for a reason. But that separation was to protect your religious freedoms from being controlled by the government, not for abandoning biblical values in the governing of our citizens. 

But for me, as a Christian, I think there is no better time than now to make sure my beliefs are part of the political discussion. Despite many feeling to the contrary, our country was founded by God-fearing men and women. It was assumed God was going to be a part of this life as going to church on Sunday was the rule, not the exception. 

Our country was founded on biblical principles, and the Bible teaches obedience to governing authorities (Romans 13:1-7), seeing government as part of God’s design for maintaining order and justice. 

For those interested, there are many teachings available on biblical citizenship. Biblical citizenship refers to the idea of integrating Christian principles and values into one’s role and responsibilities as a citizen. For those who identify as Christians, biblical citizenship involves living out their faith in the public square, particularly in political, social and civic life. It emphasizes the belief that the Bible offers guidance not only for personal morality and spiritual matters but also for how individuals should engage in society, government and culture.

Biblical citizenship teaches that Christians have a responsibility to uphold moral and ethical standards based on biblical teachings. This may involve advocating for laws and policies that reflect biblical values, such as justice, the sanctity of life, marriage and care for the poor.

Christians are encouraged to participate in the democratic process, including voting, running for office or supporting leaders who uphold biblical principles. Some argue that government is ordained by God, and Christians have a duty to be involved to ensure that it operates according to godly principles. Biblical citizenship includes respecting laws and leaders, as long as they do not conflict with God’s commandments.

In line with the Bible’s teachings on justice, mercy and love for one’s neighbor (Micah 6:8, Matthew 22:37-40), biblical citizenship promotes caring for marginalized groups, fighting against injustice and standing up for those who cannot defend themselves.

Many advocates of biblical citizenship believe Christians should be a positive influence in the culture, helping to shape society’s values in alignment with biblical principles. This may involve engaging in debates on contemporary issues like abortion, religious freedom and family values.

Christians often see themselves as having dual citizenship: one in their earthly nation and one in the “Kingdom of God” (Philippians 3:20). Biblical citizenship involves balancing responsibilities to both, prioritizing loyalty to God while still fulfilling duties as citizens of their country.

While the specifics of how to live out biblical citizenship may vary among different Christian denominations and political perspectives, the general idea is that faith should guide how one engages with society and governance.  

Please note, this discussion is only to advocate for the millions of Christians who are active in politics and vote. It is also a plea to the 40 million evangelicals across this nation that do not vote or do not vote regularly because they believe the rhetoric they need to stay out of politics. Your beliefs do belong in the political arena. Your values do matter. Your vote counts just as much as the atheist, the agnostic and the non-Christian. Do you not think they take their beliefs to the ballot box?

Elaine Hewitt is with the Rowan County Republicans.