Many christians ask, what does the Bible say about voting? Voting, as we understand it today, is a relatively modern concept tied to democratic societies where citizens have a voice in choosing their leaders and shaping public policy. But how does this concept align with biblical teachings? The Bible does not directly address voting as it is practiced in the modern world, since the practice of voting did not exist in the same form during biblical times. However, there are several principles in Scripture that offer guidance on how Christians should approach the topic of voting, civic engagement, and the broader responsibility of living in a society governed by laws and authorities.
To explore this topic, we need to look at the overarching themes of justice, authority, and our responsibility as citizens in the kingdom of God and as participants in earthly governments. Although the Bible does not have specific verses on the act of voting itself, it provides wisdom on related subjects that can inform a Christian’s view on voting, participation in government, and their relationship to the state.
1. The Role of Authority and Government in the Bible
A central theme in the Bible is the role of government and the authority of rulers. God’s relationship with governing authorities is well-established, and Scripture teaches that God is sovereign over all earthly powers, and that government, at its best, serves as a means of maintaining order, justice, and peace in society.
In Romans 13:1-2, Paul writes, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” This passage emphasizes that civil authority is part of God’s divine order. It suggests that Christians should respect authority and obey the laws of the land, as long as they do not contradict God’s higher law.
Similarly, 1 Peter 2:13-14 urges Christians to submit themselves to human authorities for the Lord’s sake, “whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.”
This gives an underlying principle that those in positions of authority are there because of God’s will, and Christians are called to respect and pray for those in power. Even so, the Bible does not endorse blind obedience. When governments enforce laws that contradict God’s commands (e.g., requiring idol worship or forbidding the preaching of the gospel), Scripture also calls for resistance, as seen in the actions of figures like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3) and Peter and John (Acts 4:19-20).
2. Christians and Political Participation
While the Bible makes it clear that God has established authorities, it also stresses that Christians have a responsibility to engage in society and help shape it according to biblical principles of justice, mercy, and righteousness. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were expected to engage in civic matters, as seen in the appointment of judges and leaders in the book of Exodus and Deuteronomy. These leaders were supposed to govern in a way that reflected God’s laws and brought justice to the people. When Israel failed to hold their leaders accountable, or when they turned to corrupt rulers, they experienced divine judgment.
Jesus, in the New Testament, also speaks to issues of civic responsibility. In Matthew 22:15-22, when Jesus was questioned about paying taxes to Caesar, He famously replied, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This statement not only affirms the legitimacy of secular authority but also reminds believers that their ultimate allegiance is to God. Jesus indicates that while we participate in society, our primary loyalty is to God’s kingdom, and this should guide our actions in both private and public life.
Christians should, therefore, be informed and thoughtful participants in society, exercising their citizenship responsibly and with a sense of justice. The principle that underpins this is the call to love our neighbors and seek the welfare of society, a sentiment expressed in Jeremiah 29:7, where God tells the Israelites to seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which they were exiled, for in its prosperity, they would prosper.
3. Justice and Righteousness
The Bible frequently emphasizes justice, righteousness, and the protection of the marginalized. In the Old Testament, God commands leaders to act justly and defend the cause of the poor and oppressed. For example, in Micah 6:8, God says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Similarly, in Isaiah 1:17, God calls His people to “learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
These themes carry over into the New Testament, where Jesus speaks of bringing justice to the oppressed and caring for the least of these (e.g., Matthew 25:40). James 1:27 also says that “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
When we consider voting from this perspective, it becomes clear that Christians should vote in a way that promotes justice, mercy, and the common good. We are called to support policies and leaders that uphold righteousness and address the needs of the most vulnerable in society.
4. The Importance of Wisdom and Discernment
The Bible teaches that wisdom is critical in all aspects of life, and this includes making decisions about political engagement. In Proverbs 2:6, we read, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” James 1:5 also encourages believers to seek wisdom from God when making decisions: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
When it comes to voting, Christians should not only consider political platforms or party affiliations but should seek God’s wisdom in determining which leaders and policies best reflect biblical values. This includes considering the implications of policies on issues like poverty, justice, human rights, and the sanctity of life. Wisdom and discernment should guide how Christians choose candidates who are not only morally upright but also effective in creating a society that reflects God’s heart for justice and mercy.
5. The Call to Love Our Neighbor
Perhaps the most fundamental biblical principle to consider when discussing voting is the command to love our neighbor. Jesus states in Matthew 22:39, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” This commandment shapes every aspect of a believer’s life, including how they engage in the public sphere. When making political choices, Christians are called to consider how their vote will impact their neighbors—especially the marginalized, oppressed, and vulnerable.
This principle can guide decisions on issues like healthcare, immigration, economic inequality, and social justice. Voting should not be done out of self-interest or partisan loyalty but rather in consideration of how policies will serve the common good and promote the well-being of all people, especially the least fortunate.
6. The Kingdom of God and the Temporary Nature of Earthly Governments
While the Bible encourages Christians to engage in society and politics, it also makes clear that the ultimate focus of a believer’s life should be on the kingdom of God, which transcends earthly nations and governments. Philippians 3:20 reminds believers that “our citizenship is in heaven,” and 2 Peter 3:13 speaks of the new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells.
Christians should be careful not to place too much hope or trust in political systems, which are temporary and flawed. Instead, they are called to live out their citizenship in God’s kingdom, working toward justice, peace, and righteousness while remaining mindful that true and lasting change comes from God, not from human governments.
Though the Bible does not provide a direct command to vote or establish a clear voting system, it provides ample guidance on principles such as justice, authority, wisdom, and love for our neighbors that are highly relevant to how Christians should approach voting. Ultimately, Christians are called to be responsible and engaged citizens, participating in government in ways that reflect God’s will and uphold His standards of justice and righteousness. Voting becomes an opportunity to advocate for the marginalized, seek the common good, and align societal structures with biblical values. In doing so, Christians fulfill their calling to be salt and light in the world, representing God’s kingdom here on earth while awaiting the ultimate fulfillment of His reign.
