A Present Danger: A Worldly Hope

If one pays much attention to the news today in the United States, they cannot miss the ongoing Republican primaries; which in some ways are quite interesting. One after another the self proclaimed conservatives are rising in popularity to "frontrunner" status only to fall down before Mitt Romney, the moderate. I forget the exact order now, and it is not worth researching. But I can clearly remember that in the very beginning Michele Bachmann was leading among the conservatives (the "conservatives" among these contenders for the republican nomination are essentially everyone besides Romney). For a while we saw Herman Cain grow in popularity, for a while it was Rick Perry. As of late Newt Gingrich seemed to be a real threat to Romney. Then Rick Santorum was in the spotlight, where many never thought he would be. Things may change again, and they will, but it appears Romney continues to hold his position as the established frontrunner in this contest. It only makes sense that he will get the nomination, seeing as he has more money than anyone else.

After their fall to Romney and the other conservatives we are at present down to four individuals, one of which will likely be the Republican nominee to run against Barack Obama in the upcoming general election. Some of you may be wondering why I have written on some political subjects here, you may also be wondering where it is I am going. The title gives a good summery, but there are a number of places I'm going and points I plan to make.

Let us briefly examine the four remaining contestants for the republican nomination.

First, there is Rick Santorum. Much good could be said about his opinions on various subjects. But it cannot be ignored that he is a political hypocrite and a member of an antichrist religion. That religion which masquerades as Christian, but is in fact an unbiblical, God forbidden mixture of Babylonian falsehoods. A religion which has left her first love (Christ) and gone a whoring after strange flesh, all the while maintaining in the sight of the blinded world its innocence. This is exactly what the Jewish people have done in time past (Deuteronomy 31:16).

Second, Newt Gingrich, who, is not only a political hypocrite, but a religious hypocrite as well. Not to mention the fact that he belongs to the same false religion as Mr. Santorum. "Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery." – Mark 10:11-12, Luke 16:18, Matthew 5:32 This could be a post in an of itself. A lot of Pastors today join in matrimony and attempt to legitimately establish relationships between adulterers and adulteresses. These Pastors would do better if they were less brazen than to dare to call holy what God has called unholy.

Third, we have Mitt Romney, who may owe some of his success to having less of a voting record; which gives him less chance to be found guilty of political hypocrisy. He may make conservative claims, and even say that we need to cut government spending, but if you view his past performance to predict his future actions, then it appears he is merely saying what he thinks people want to hear. It is known that Romney is a Mormon, that is, a member of what is called "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints." The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, is like Jehovah's Witnesses, a misnomer. Also, much like Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons are also antichrists, because, like them, they deny Biblical teachings, including who Jesus Christ is (the Trinity/Godhead). The Mormons have many unbiblical beliefs, which we will not go into now, but the notation of some facts comparing their similarities with other false religions will continue.

Mormonism is in any ways like the false religion of Islam. Both Islam and Mormonism were begun by a false prophet. Both false prophets (Joseph Smith of Mormonism and Mohammad of Islam) introduced (or were attributed with introducing) "new holy scriptures" either in addition to (Mormonism) or as standalone holy scriptures (Islam). Both of the founders of these false religions had numerous wives, and as a consequence, numerous children. Perhaps both were merely trying to multiply their newly invented religion as quickly as possible; perhaps more likely, they were hedonists of the first class. Both of these false religions teach many good, moral, and even godly ideals and principles (especially if you ignore the lives of their founders). But they both also teach just enough lies to sufficiently damn their adherents to everlasting judgment. This of course is the Devils design, just enough goodness to appear true, while lacking that which is necessary for salvation; the perfect plan for counterfeit religions capable of deceiving, enslaving, and damning a multitude of souls. This should make us weep.

Fourth, is Ron Paul. He is the only conservative who is not obviously a political hypocrite. He is the only one of these four, who is purportedly a Christian and is not a member of an antichrist religion. Pertinently, he is the one who is perhaps most likely, if elected president, to save our country from the financial destruction, which is coming upon us as the just cause of our moral and spiritual failings. He is the only one of these four who is able to think clearly enough to not only realize what is wrong with the situation our country is in, but how to fix it. He is the only one who conducts himself based on principles, who is open minded enough not to be completely blinded by the political games which corrupt so many. He is the only one who can see the drastic cuts to the size and funding of government and government programs, which must take place if we are to avoid catastrophic financial ruin. Further, he is the only one who is actually qualified for the presidency, based on the fact that he is the only one who would not be lying were he to take the pledge of allegiance to the constitution, which the president takes prior to entering office. He is the only one whom the founding fathers of this nation would perhaps not be ashamed.

But before we place false hope in a political system let us examine some things which cannot wisely be ignored. To pledge or affirm allegiance to the constitution of the United States necessarily denies Christ, and Christian teaching. One cannot serve two masters, and to put the constitution first in political matters denies Christ in the political realm. Matthew 6:24 As I have heard said before; Christ is Lord of all, or he is not Lord at all. Ron Paul understands what pledging allegiance to the constitution means. He has already denied Christ, essentially saying that his Christianity affects how he deals with people, and his personal life, but that it would not affect his decisions as president.

The only political system or kingdom to which biblical Christians belong is the Kingdom ruled by Christ. This kingdom began, and has endured among men since the time of Christ's coming. Isaiah 9:7, Luke 1:33, Luke 17:21, Romans 14:17 But it will not, and cannot manifest itself as an earthy kingdom until Christ returns in the flesh and rules it himself, with his saints.

Next we look at the founding fathers of the United States of America. Was the Revolution not fought to overthrow the reign of British tyranny upon the American people? What Biblical Christian principle did those early Americans use to justify the shedding of blood for the sake of a new earthly kingdom? How does killing men, who are created in the image of God, spread the Christian faith and serve as an example to unbelievers? Genesis 9:6, Philippians 2:14-15 How is it that so many seem impressed by the "Christianity" of the early American founders, when in reality, it is quite clear that they did what they did partially for their personal gain and for the ideals of liberty and independence, which, while unquestionably American, are not necessarily Christian. The strong "christian culture" which existed in early America was a positive force affecting society toward a form of godliness. However, a mere "christian culture," while good for the orderly functioning of society, is not necessary a means of salvation to those who are part of it. More dangerously, it convinces some that they are saved, even when they are far from God, because they foolishly compare themselves to other professing Christians; rather than the eternal standard which is God's word. 2 Corinthians 10:12 Consider all those who attend church regularly for years, but who never yield good fruit, or who refuse to give up their sacred cows (idols) and are thereby prevented from entering the Kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Revelation 21:8

In fact, in the American culture freedom and independence are often elevated to the status of a virtue. Biblically, freedom and independence are limited within the scope of the responsibility incurred by moral obligations. Freedom and independence can be invoked for either good or evil purposes and are, therefore not necessarily something which should be valued in a truly Christian society. Often they are nothing more than excuses of willfulness, selfishness, and generally loose living. In truth, aside from the bonds of Christian morality, freedom and independence are the tools of the devil and the wings by which sinners fly.

America fought for and obtained its freedom, for the most part, simply to avoid paying taxes. They gained this freedom through killing. The Declaration of Independence could only be signed due to supposed "Christians" who violated an express command of Christ, in order that they would be free to violate another. The command to love, and not kill, and the command to pay taxes. Matthew 5:21-48, Matthew 5:44, Mark 12:14-17. Perhaps they loved their high living more than Christ.

Today, patriotism continues among "Christians" because of the love of the world which dwells in their hearts. 1 John 2:15-17 Strangers and pilgrims they are not. Hebrews 11:13-16, 1 Peter 2:11-12 By their actions they are not followers of Christ, for they do not follow his example nor his words. Preoccupation with politics and hopes that a new leader or government will right the wrongs in society is not only folly, but idolatry, unbelief, and an aid to the devil and his workings.

Christians are to honor and pray for the government in the land where they dwell. They are not to mock the authority over them. It is one thing to state the facts, which is just criticism, it is another thing to mock and make fun in an inappropriate manner. 1 Timothy 2:1-3, Ecclesiastes 10:20, Romans 13:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13

As America and all earthly nations are antichrists in one way or another, is it any wonder that we are ruled by leaders who are antichrists? 2 Corinthians 4:4, 1 John 4:3, Luke 4:5-7 The only Kingdom which can be anything other than antichrist, is a theocracy ruled by Christ himself. The Pope who labels himself as "Vicar of Christ" is not a legitimate substitute.

Christians rejoice! For your citizenship is in heaven, and your redemption draweth nigh! Philippians 3:20, Luke 21:28.

Also see -> Involvement In War, Self Defense, and Politics?

He That Overcometh: He In Whom The Word Of God Abideth

Overcoming? These days many “Christians” do not want to think about overcoming Sin, Satan and the World. Many even point to John 16:33 and claim that Jesus overcame the world for us. True it is that Jesus overcame the world, but to claim that we do not also need to overcome it is to deny scripture. To claim that men need not overcome is to deny belief and faith, it is to deny being born again, it is to deny regeneration. We can see that we, apart from God in us, cannot overcome anything. But “whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world.” (1 John 5:4) The victory that overcometh the world is our Faith. “Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5:5)

Because of God in us we overcome the spirits of antichrist which are in the world. God is greater than those antichrists for “greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” (See 1 John 4:3-4)

The Apostle Paul tells us in Romans 12:21 “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” In Revelation 12:9-11 “…they overcame him [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb…and they loved not their lives unto death.”

We are to be willing and even to expect to suffer for Christ, to bear our cross, not to live for self, but to consider ourselves dead. We are to deny ourselves, to reckon ourselves, (our old man of flesh) to be dead with Christ that we may live with Christ. (Luke 9:23, Colossians 3:3, Mark 8:34, Matthew 16:24, 1 Peter 2:21, 1 Peter 2:24, 2 Timothy 2:11)

“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” - Romans 6:3-11

In 2 Peter 2:19-20 we read of those who are overcome, because they have been entangled and are in bondage to the pollutions of the world. When we overcome through the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ then we escape corruption and are not overcome by the world.

In 1 John 2:13-14 John, when writing to the young men says that they have overcome the wicked one. How did they overcome the wicked one according to John? They overcame because the word of God abideth in them!

Does evil ever overcome good? The two witnesses of Revelation chapter 11 are overcome and killed by the beast, but only after they had finished giving their testimony before the world. (Those two witnesses prophesied a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. They had power over heaven that it rained not, they had power to breath fire out upon their enemies, and they had power to smite the earth with all plagues whenever they wanted to.) After they were killed they which dwelt on the earth made merry and rejoiced. But Look! After three and a half days “the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.” (See Revelation 11:11-12)

Evil may for a time appear to overcome good, but it Never will. Satan and his demons, those fallen angles, and those men who do not come to love and believe that Christ Jesus is who he says he is have much to Fear.

What is the reward for overcoming?

Jesus said “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Rev. 2:7)

Jesus said “He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” (Rev. 2:11)

Jesus said “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.” (Rev. 2:17)

Jesus said “And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:” (Rev. 2:26, also see 2 Timothy 2:12, Rev. 20:6)

Jesus said “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” (Rev. 3:5, also see Rev. 4:4, Matthew 17:2, Matthew 28:3, Luke 9:29, Daniel 7:9, John 20:12, Acts 1:9-10, Isaiah 1:18, Matthew 10:32-33, Luke 12:8-9)

Jesus said “Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.” (Rev. 3:12)

Jesus said “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” (Rev. 3:21)

Jesus said “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.” (Rev. 21:7)

“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things. Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” - 2 Timothy 2:3-14

The ten kingdoms of the beast shall “make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.” (See Revelation 17:10-14)

See the Hymn "IS YOUR ALL ON THE ALTAR?"

The Company of Korah, Sheep Among Wolves

Korah, Dathan, Abiram and all the other men of the company of Korah were destroyed for their wickedness. The earth opened and swallowed them up, because of their sin in rebelling against Moses and Aaron. Moses warned the people to depart from Korah so that they would not be consumed in all their sins (see Numbers 16:1-33 and Numbers 26:9-10)

“And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of theirs, lest ye be consumed in all their sins.” - Numbers 16:26

Are we so naïve as to think that we can keep company with the wicked and not be consumed in their sins?

In Numbers 22:9 God asked Balaam the son of Beor “What men are these with thee?”

What would God say of the company we keep?

But first and foremost what would God say of us?

In Numbers 22:1-41 we can see the story of Balaam, and that God allowed him (I say allowed because God’s original instructions were for Balaam not to go with them) to go with them, but only on the condition that he only do and say what God would tell him to.

This may also be the case for us. God may allow us to keep company with the wicked, but he would only allow us this if we only do and say what he wants us to do and say (that is if we do not take part in their sins).

But we must also beware that we be not as the Pharisees. For they criticized Christ for keeping company with sinners. But we, as followers of Christ are called to lead sinners to salvation. We cannot do that without keeping company with sinners sometimes. But we must never partake of their sins, this limits where we can go.

“And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” - Matthew 9:10-13

And so it is concluded by the words of our Master and Lord (John 13:13) “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” - Matthew 10:16

And Then Shall They Fast

“And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink? And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bride chamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.” - Luke 5:33-35 (Also see Matthew 9:15, Mark 2:20)

Jesus said that after he is taken away that his disciples shall fast. Are you his disciple? If you trust him for salvation, if you believe on him, if he is your Lord and Saviour then you are his disciple.

Notice we are not told when to fast, or how often, but we are told how.

“Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.” - Matthew 6:16-18

When we are right with God we will fast sometimes, but when and how often is up to how the Holy Spirit leads us. But we must remember the words of Jesus “and then shall they fast.” Then is the period of time in which we now live.

But for what cause would we fast? In the Holy Bible fasting is done in mourning, to repent, to seek mercy from God, to dispel evil spirits, to stay the judgment of God, to humble ones self before the Lord, to beseech God for deliverance, or an answer, or for a solution to a problem, and for many other similar reasons.

See Ezra 8:23, Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, Joel 2:12, Matthew 17: 18-21 (Mark 9:29), Acts 13:2-3, 1 Corinthians 7:5, Judges 20:26, 1 Samuel 7:6, 1 Samuel 31:13, 2 Samuel 1:12, 2 Samuel 12:16-22, Esther 4:3, Psalm 35:13, Psalm 69:10, Isaiah 58:1-11.

“Speak unto all the people of the land, and to the priests, saying, When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month, even those seventy years, did ye at all fast unto me, even to me? And when ye did eat, and when ye did drink, did not ye eat for yourselves, and drink for yourselves?” - Zechariah 7:5-6

“ And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” -Colossians 3:23 (1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:17)

For more "How to fast" information see the links below.

http://www.ccci.org/training-and-growth/devotional-life/personal-guide-to-fasting/index.htm

http://www.jentezenfranklin.org/fasting/fastingbasics.php

http://www.allaboutgod.com/biblical-fasting.htm

Involvement in War, Self defense, and Politics ?

This is a long post which shows what I have been led to believe regarding violence and politics in the life of a Christian.

To fight or not to fight? That is the question. Today (10/6/2010) this question was bothering me as I had recently read two conflicting views on the subject. I have always leaned toward nonviolence, but the question is most difficult when it comes to self-defense and especially defending my family. And the answer would have been much more clear if not for the confusing verse of Luke 22:36.

So I got on my knees and earnestly prayed for God to help me understand this. To let me understand how a Christian should believe and act regarding violence and the bearing of arms, of the use of guns and swords. I confessed that I did not know, and that I was foolish (for I am) and could not know unless He led me to understand. I needed to know so I could take action, one way or another. After a short time a number of things occurred to me. Now as I write this I try to recollect what they were. First, Jesus said that he had all power on heaven and on the earth (Matthew 28:18). In John 14:12 (and the following verses which help put things in perspective) we read that if we believe on Jesus Christ we shall do even greater things than he. We are able do these great things because Jesus returned to the Father and sent the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth, the Comforter (John 14:17, 26). But the world cannot receive the Spirit of Truth because it neither seeth nor knoweth him. But Christ did not leave us…HE sent the HOLY GHOST to dwell in us and to be in us. And so we, if we have Christ in us, are led by the spirit and are the sons of God. If God is our Father who have we to fear? (Romans 8:9-16) I am persuaded that if it is the will of God he could easily protect us through miracles of all sorts, with his angels or if he so chooses he will let us suffer the death of a martyr. As long as we are led by the spirit yielding to God we need not fear guns or any threat to our flesh. So the extent to which we need carnal weapons to defend ourselves is the same extent to which we are living a carnal life which cannot please God. Further, if we bear in mind that everything we do should be done for God and his Glory, then we will have reason to feel that God is always with us if we do indeed do everything for his glory. (Colossians 3:17, I Corinthians 10:31).

It is also worth noting that no where in scripture do we read of followers of Christ attempting to fight their attackers, nor do we read verses that command us to defend ourselves physically (we read just the opposite (Matthew 10:16)). The only exception is Peter when we cuts off the high priests ear, But remember how Jesus rebuked Peter, so this is a lesson to us. “Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?”- John 18:11
(Mark 14:47, Luke 22:50, John 18:10-11).

In Isaiah 2:4, Micah 4:3, and Joel 3:10 we read “they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks.” This is exactly what early Christians did, according to many (An account of one of the many can be read of in Eusebius’ Ecclesiastical History, Book 7 chapter 15). See the links at the end of this post. I could get into a lot of history at this point but I will not because the Word of God is more than sufficient to clearly understand this subject.

In Matthew 4:8-9 (along with 2 Corinthians 4:4, John 12:31, 14:30, and 16:11, and 1John 5:19) We see that the kingdoms of the world are Satan’s; that he is the prince of the world and the god of this world. For the whole world is in wickedness; the systems of the world are wicked and Satan is the god of these systems. For the Christian, Christ is the King why have we therefore any thing to do with this world and the prince of its kingdoms?

With all this in mind it appears contrary to the teachings of Christ and the apostles to be involved in any war, violence or even in any politics. One may first have to come to the point to understand a few things before believing the above statement. Rather than pray for a certain leader to be elected, for a certain bill to be passed, or for a certain leader to take and support a certain position, we should pray for the heart of the matter. Consider how the turning away from God and essentially the making and worshipping of idols is evil and leads to yet more evil. Remember the greatest commandment and the second, and pray that others may also (Matthew 22:36-40). What I mean is that we do not often know the consequences of laws and how God works to turn that which is intended for evil to good and vice versa. Politics is beside the point; it is a mere distraction to what really needs to be done, not to mention an unnecessary cause of contention. For a specific example I believe that rather than pray for abortions to be outlawed, or for certain drugs to continue to be illegal we should pray that pregnant women would realize the precious life within them and that drug users would find the highest high (the joy in the Lord) that both may make Christ their Lord and be guided to believing his Word, the Holy Bible. Salvation will not and cannot come through the kingdoms of this world and trying to make kingdoms of Satan better is at least somewhat like trying to save ourselves by our works (at these things we can only have futile attempts). Politics is trivial when the soon coming judgment is considered. Rather than give money to a Political action committee, would it not be better to give money to the furtherance of the preaching of the Gospel? I now see giving to both of these as trying to serve two masters (Matthew 6:24, Luke 16:13). But if you are not fully committed to Christ, and have no intention of ever being so, then what will become of you? Remember that; “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other.”

I believe that rather than being involved in politics (through war, holding office and even voting) it is a Christians duty to spend time in prayer for the leaders, our countrymen and others who live on this earth, that God‘s will may be done. This idea was hard for me to come to as I am very opinionated even about politics, but I’ve let that go. If this appears to you (the reader) as mere laziness on my part I must point out that it is not, but is rather a redirecting of energies away from politics and toward Christ and his Kingdom only. And I ask; Can we be a politician or in any way involve ourselves in politics without being a friend of the world? “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” - James 4:4. I know for myself that I need to constantly examine my own life since the world and the love of it can easily creep in. (also see 1 Corinthians 3:18-19, 2:12, John 15:19 James 1:27, Titus 2:12)

Lastly, there are the numerous times in which shame is brought to the name of Christianity when “Christians” involve themselves in politics and war. There were the Crusades which were bad enough, but also there was Hitler and his “Christian” army. And of course the Catholic Church, that Romish Church, whose atrocities we will not begin to mention. There is the foolish squabbling of Democrat verses Republican, that bashing of others by those filled with self-righteousness calling themselves Christians.

I have really returned to my original belief on this matter. Before voting age I somewhat criticized my parents for voting and maintaining the belief of opposition toward war. When I was old enough to vote I did not have enough reason not to so I felt like I should and then I also took the view that some fighting Christians are called to. After reading the book Should Christians Fight by I. C. Wellcome I was presented with new information which challenged me and led to my return to my original belief - only this time I knew why I believed as I did. Another thing that further convinced me was Wayne Grudem’s poorly written argument against Greg Boyd’s view that the kingdoms of this world are evil (In Dr. Grudem’s new book Politics according to the Bible)(On many things I agree with Dr. Grudem, but not in this case). It is very interesting that the finalization of my view on this whole matter is what came together based on my time in prayer when I sought the Lord to reveal his will to me. It was only later that I read Boyd’s opinion on the matter and discovered that we seemed to agree a lot on this subject. I have read and realize the many objections to this belief (of non-violence) I’ve read the arguments for “just wars” and can only conclude that followers of Christ are called to be separate. The earthly kingdoms are right to use the power of the sword to rule and maintain a semblance of order, but for the Christian Christ is their king and they are not of the kingdom of the world. The two sides of the argument are non-violence and non-political involvement verses the view that we should influence the world politically, through a directly political means and that there are certain times when Christians should use carnal weapons. The reason I have reached the conclusion that the former view is Biblical is really (it seems) based on the understanding that the kingdoms of this world are not of God (spiritually, though God has allowed and even ordained them) and the extreme to which we are called (as Bible believing Christians) that our whole life and everything we do we should do for Christ and by his influence. Some argue that if all Christians were uninvolved in Politics than there would be no “good” people in Politics and that the world would become much more evil. This argument is weak because many “good” people are not “Christians” and many “Christians” are not “good” people. Also, in the Bible an image is portrayed that there are only a relatively small percentage of true Christians, so as far a being directly involved in politics they could only have a small effect (directly from voting). (Luke 13:23-24, Matthew 7:14, Mark 10:25, 2 Thessalonians 2:10, 1 John 2:4 and much of 1 John)) But I do not believe (for reasons stated earlier) that Christians are called to have an effect through the involvement of worldly politics. The effect Christians have on the world through prayer and their witness and sharing of faith should be much greater than any effect possible through politics, because of the great power of God, and his Holy Spirit working in his people. If we believe that God is ultimately in control of all then we will not feel as if we need to control the world in which we live. I say this because in not voting or involving themselves in political campaigns some “Christians” feel that they are not “fighting the Christian fight.” But the kingdoms of this world are not Christ’s Kingdom (see John 18:36-37).

As regarding Luke 22:36 I must conclude along with Matthew Henry’s commentary that when Christ referred to swords that he was only referring to weapons of spiritual warfare. Even better is the explanation in Matthew Poole’s commentary which, paraphrased in my own words is that; those who interpret Christ’s statement to mean that they should use physical force will find it difficult to explain the rest of the scriptures, and that clearly that is not what Christ meant. For if that was what he meant he would not have said “it is enough” because clearly two swords would not have been enough if that was what he meant (considering all the adversaries). Also Whedon’s Commentary interprets this verse as basically meaning that we should sacrifice as necessary so that we may be prepared to be a victor in the coming spiritual battles (sell our cloak to get a sword, make sacrifices in order to be spiritually prepared).

Finally, since I have decided this I have not been involved in politics as before and I find that my thoughts and actions are more directed to the Lord. Politics is such a waste of time. As regarding non-violence, the issue of making sure our children, siblings or younger brother’s and sister’s in Christ develop a strong faith early is highly prioritized. This is the case because we never know when they (or us) will be physically attacked or even killed and since we plan to do nothing fleshly to defend them we must do all things spiritually possible. I am persuaded that if we take wise precautions and are faithful that we can rely on our Holy Father to protect us as he sees fit, realizing that our will may not be his, but nevertheless we as Christ (Matthew 26:39) should pray that the Father’s will be done, knowing that all things work together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).

Also, I don't want to forget to mention 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 and Matthew 26:52.

This is a subject on which the view above will be despised by many "Christians." Just today on the radio while listening to a "Christian" radio station I heard the statement made that "It is a sin not to vote" The folly of such a statement should be obvious considering that many "Christians" vote contrary to each other. But also we must look at Jesus; Did he encourage political involvement? NO. He did just the opposite. The Holy Book, the Word of God, must be that which we look to for the answers to everything which which we have to do.

What about history of Christians from past times who supported this belief? What I wrote above is very similar to that written circa 1575 by Hans Schnell in his treatise titled "The Two Kingdoms." He also has a section which I hinted at but wanted to research before I actually said it.

It appears that fighting and political involvement are two more aspects of Babylonian corruption which entered the "Christian church" through Rome, beginning with Constantine. At least it is a change in the common "Christian" belief, that happened to begin at the same time as the Babylonian religion began to be mixed with Christianity. Since prior to that time (the time Constantine became emperor)"Christians" rightly believed that they were not citizens of this earth (that their kingdom was not of this earth) and therefore did not participate in war or the holding of public office, but after Constantine they did these things more commonly. As we see in Hebrews 11:13-16, and 1 Peter 2:9-11 we who have faith are indeed strangers and pilgrims on this earth.

It should also be said that regardless of how the governments of this earth rule it is a fact that they are appointed by God (Romans 13:1-8, Acts 4:18-20, 5:27-29, 1 Peter 2:13). This being the case they deserve our respect, because of the office they hold (Acts 23:5, Ecclesiastes 10:20). They also deserve our obedience, we must submit to them, unless they tell us to do something against the teachings of the Bible. In that case we must be like the Apostles who found it better to obey God rather than man. So if we cannot obey what the government wants us to do we must submit peacefully to the punishment they give us or flee to another place. These are the only two options the Holy Bible gives us.


See the Many Links below. Also see Psalm 2

http://www.spiritualitytoday.org/spir2day/863821murphy.html

http://www.lifespurpose.net/11aLoyaltytotheKingdom.html

http://mikebrandes.com/2010/09/08/is-christian-involvement-in-politics-biblical-or-unbiblical/

http://www.angelfire.com/journal2/adrianbiblestudents/kingdom.html

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/role-religion-world-affairs.html

http://searchwarp.com/swa492273-Early-Christians-Views-On-War-Power-And-Politics.htm

http://janetnapolitano.com/early-christians-views-on-war-power-and-politics

http://www.lewrockwell.com/vance/vance60.html

http://www.heraldmag.org/olb/contents/doctrine/ecvowams.htm


http://www.abc-coggc.org/jrad/volume1/issue3/The%20Early%20Christian%20View%20of%20War.pdf

http://www.issues-views.com/index.php/sect/23000/article/23085

http://www.gty.org/Resources/Articles/A125_Christians-and-Politics-Part-2