Bradley Wareley
As South Africa prepares for its seventh general election since the dawn of democracy in 1994, we find ourselves reflecting on the journey our nation has taken. It’s been a path marked by significant changes, some positive and others deeply challenging. As it says in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
In the face of practices deemed ungodly being legalised, the increasing corruption in government and civil society and utter degradation of morality in society, the role of the evangelical church in politics has never been more critical. Over the next 21 days leading up to the election on 29th May 2024, we will explore this role and how believers can approach the polling station with faith as their guide.
The Gospel and Politics
The good news of Jesus Christ influences our political engagement.
As evangelicals, we believe that the Gospel not only transforms individuals but also societies. This transformation shapes our political views and actions.
Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
The Role of the Evangelical Church in South African Politics
The evangelical church has a unique role in South African politics.
We will explore this role from a historical perspective and discuss how it continues to shape the political landscape today.
As it says in Matthew 5:13, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?”
Navigating Politics as an Evangelical Believer
As evangelical believers, we are called to navigate the political landscape with wisdom and discernment.
This means critically evaluating the policies and practices of political parties and candidates, and aligning our support with those that uphold biblical principles of justice, righteousness, and love for our neighbour.
Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Faith at the Ballot Box
When we step into the voting booth, we carry with us not just our political opinions, but our faith convictions.
Our ultimate allegiance is not to a political party or politician, but to God
This allegiance should guide our actions and attitudes in the political sphere, helping us to advocate for justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8).
In the coming days, we will dive deeper into these topics, providing practical guidance for evangelical believers navigating the political landscape in South Africa. We invite you to join us on this journey, as we seek to live out our faith in the public square, following the instruction of Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
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