Published:
09/27/2011 12:09am
MY GOD, MY POLITICS
There has long been great debate within the faith and political communities about the role of faith in the world of politics. At the very outset of each debate, the conversation seems to move immediately to the separation of church and state. However, that, too often, is an over simplistic way of engaging the conversation. Those on the extreme religious side will say that there ought to be no separation between church and state. They take the Scripture verse in Psalms 24:1 as their justification by saying, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.” They believe that they are “Holy Ambassadors” for God and should rightfully control government and its policies. On the other hand, their are those on the opposing side of the argument that will say that faith has no place whatsoever within the public square of politics.
I say that there ought to be a clear line of demarcation concerning faith and politics, between religious action and action taken by the government. However, I unequivocally believe that one’s faith can and should speak to the direction of this nation and its policies!
It is my assertion that it is time for people of faith not only to allow their faith to engage their politics, but also to influence it. As people of faith, our faith ought to inform every aspect of our lives; from children, to family, to finances, to health, to marriage, and yes…even to politics! It is no far stretch to say that as our faith informs our lives, it should also inform our politics. If we believe that God is the creator of all things (Genesis 1:1), if we believe that he is the author and inspiration for the Holy Bible (2 Timothy 3:16), if we believe that scripture is good for all areas of life—then we ought to allow our faith to influence and direct everything, including our politics.
The politics of America is stock full of people’s personal beliefs and ideologies. People allow their most basic beliefs and core values to influence their political and public policy stances. It is their core belief systems that guide how they align themselves on the political spectrum. In effect, it is one’s basic
beliefs that determines whether one calls oneself a Democrat, Republican, or other.
The question, however, remains: Why not allow our faith to guide and monitor our politics? What prevents most Americans from allowing their faith to influence their politics? I will submit that it has become taboo because of the antics of extreme personalities who lay claim to the topic of faith and politics within the public square. Religious zealots have given “faith talk” a bad name throughout history. Religious zealots have made it almost impossible to have a reasonable discussion concerning faith and politics. Part of the reason for this divide is because many people of faith have failed to speak in a language that the non-religious or the non-spiritual person could understand. Speaking solely in religious terms is an unacceptable practice when engaging the world in a discussion of politics. As a side note, it is nearly impossible for anyone of faith to be relevant in the world by only engaging in religious talk or conversation. One has to speak in a manner that is relevant to one’s daily issues of life. Quoting Scriptures to prove a public policy point is a moot point if it is not translated in a manner that the other party can interpret or understand.
Therefore, let not the extremes of this discussion rule the day. It is time for a well balanced; level headed approach to the discussion of faith and politics. If my core values embrace faith, then that same faith should also influence every aspect of my life, including my politics.
Lee May is a County Commissioner representing over 160,000 people in DeKalb County, GA. He is both an elected official and a faith leader in his community. His new book “My God, My Politics” is beginning a much needed discussion between Faith & Politics. For more information, visit http://www.mygodmypolitics.com
