For many Christians, voting presents a dilemma. The candidates we vote for are rarely born again and committed to Christian values. They may be religious, and at best they are carnal Christians.
Here is what the scriptures say about the unbeliever and the carnal Christian.
“Scripture reveals that the unregenerate person/the unbeliever, including the ‘carnal Christian'(Rom 8:7-8), is in enmity against God, unable to spiritually discern or accept the things of God (1 Cor 2:14). Such a person, allied with the world (James 4:4), is deceived and blinded (2 Cor 4:4) by Satan, the god of this world, who is also described as the father of lies (John 8:44).
Beware of Entanglement
So, how should a believer approach the voting process without becoming “entangled in civilian affairs,” as the Apostle Paul warns in 2 Timothy 2:4? Historically, political engagement was more straightforward for Christians, but in today’s polarized climate, involvement can easily lead to entanglement. Eventually you find yourself radicalized, pledging allegiance to a political system, having plugged into some form of idolatry. You can always recognize this type of believer by their fruit. Hardness of heart, hatred, and anger having a form of godliness but denying the power and fruit of the holy spirit to work through them
In 2 Timothy 2:4, the Apostle Paul writes, “No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer” (NIV). The Greek term for “affairs” here is πραγματεία (pragmateia), which translates to “civilian engagements” or “secular matters.” Paul’s message to Timothy is a reminder that, as believers, our primary allegiance is to Christ, our “commanding officer,” and we are called to avoid distractions that could interfere with our focus on God’s mission. Over time, however, civic involvement—including voting—has taken on a more complicated and often divisive role in American society. Whereas voting might once have been a straightforward exercise in civic duty, it now frequently demands alignment with political ideologies that can be polarizing and, at times, even contrary to Christian principles. The danger lies in the potential for believers to become “entangled” in partisan politics, where the pursuit of political influence can overshadow the call to live as ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20).
True Allegiance Is To Christ
For some, this entanglement risks drawing Christians away from the gospel’s priorities, as they become more invested in temporal outcomes than in eternal truths. Scripture consistently instructs us to engage with the world in ways that reflect our distinct calling as God’s people.
For example, in 1 Peter 2:11-12, Peter urges Christians to live as “foreigners and exiles,” abstaining from “sinful desires” that wage war against the soul and living “such good lives among the pagans” that our conduct would glorify God. Here, Peter’s description of believers as “foreigners” underscores that our true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), not in earthly political structures.
Prayer Vs. Political Involvement Is God’s Way
Furthermore, while the New Testament does encourage respect and prayer for those in authority, this guidance emphasizes a non-partisan, prayerful stance rather than active political involvement.
In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul writes, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
This instruction prioritizes prayer for leaders to facilitate a stable environment in which Christians can freely practice their faith, rather than a call to political engagement. The Bible also cautions against becoming overly invested in worldly systems, which are inherently flawed and transient. Jesus himself declared in John 18:36, “My kingdom is not of this world.” As his followers, we are invited to participate in the advancement of his kingdom, which operates on principles fundamentally different from those of earthly governments.
Praying Boldly and Effectively Moves The Hand of God
- Psalm 47 emphasizes God’s sovereignty and power over all nations, portraying Him as the ultimate ruler over every earthly kingdom. When it says, “for the kings of the earth belong to God” (Psalm 47:9), it suggests that even the most powerful leaders and rulers on earth are subject to God’s authority. This statement is a reminder that God’s reign is universal and transcends national or earthly boundaries, affirming that no earthly power can stand independently from His rule. This verse can also be seen as an encouragement for believers to trust in God’s ultimate control, even in times of political uncertainty or upheaval. It reinforces that God is not just the God of Israel, but of the entire world, and all nations are ultimately accountable to Him.
- Proverbs 21:1-3 suggests that while humans, including kings, have free will, God ultimately guides their decisions to fulfill His purposes, especially regarding justice and righteousness. This demonstrates that human freedom and divine sovereignty coexist, with God capable of directing actions toward outcomes aligned with His will.
- 1 Timothy 2:1-4 Believers are urged to pray for all people, especially leaders, so that God’s will for justice, peace, and the salvation of all may be fulfilled. By interceding for those in authority, Christians partner with God’s sovereign plan, asking Him to guide leaders’ hearts toward righteousness and align their actions with His purposes for the world.
Folks, ultimately, Jesus is the only equitable and just ruler we can rely on. In Isaiah 9:6 and Revelation 21:1-4, the Bible foretells His perfect reign. This vision is for the appointed time, “in the fullness of time” (Ephesians 1:10)—not now, despite what proponents of Kingdom Now theology may suggest.
Until then our responsibility as Christians, according to Scripture, is to:
- Know Christ intimately (Philippians 3:10)
- Worship Him and Him alone (Exodus 34:14; Matthew 4:10)
- Avoid loving or imitating the ways of the ungodly (1 John 2:15-16; Romans 12:2)
- Live a life consecrated and yielded to God (Romans 12:1; 1 Peter 1:15-16)
- Preach the Gospel (Mark 16:15)
- Make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20)
- Pray for all leaders, so the Gospel may be freely preached and taught (1 Timothy 2:1-4)