Voting with Purpose: Pastors Speak on Faith and Elections

Written by Alyssa Sonnenburg

With the election soon approaching, it is more important than ever for Christians to engage the culture with their vote. Unfortunately, statistics show that less than half of Christians participate in elections.

1. Voting is a Stewardship (Matthew 25:14-30).
2. Voting is the Best Way to Love Your Neighbor (Galatians 5:14).
3. Voting Allows Believers to Be Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16).
4. Voting Allows Believers to Seek the Welfare of the City God Has Place Them in (Jeremiah 29:7).
5. Voting is an Act of Submission to How our Government Operates (Romans 13:1-7).

For Christians, voting is not just a civic responsibility. Voting is a biblical duty.

So, how can pastors equip their congregations to think biblically about elections while keeping Christ at the center? And what happens when Christians neglect their responsibility to participate?

In this episode of Illinois Family Spotlight, IFI’s Dave Smith welcomes Pastor Calvin Lindstrom of Church of Christian Liberty in Arlington Heights and Pastor James Pittman Jr. of New Hope Community Church in Palatine for a timely conversation about Christian engagement in the public square. Both longtime Illinois Family Action board members, these pastors challenge believers to speak biblical truth with courage and put their faith into action on the issues facing our communities. Listen and share!

Background

Pastor Lindstrom explains that our responsibility to love our neighbors extends to the voting booth. Public policies affect real people, including vulnerable children and families. Christians should thoughtfully evaluate candidates and consider both the immediate and lasting consequences of their decisions.

Pastor Pittman challenges churches to connect biblical teaching to everyday life. Pointing to John the Baptist’s confrontation with Herod and Nathan’s rebuke of King David, he reminds listeners that faithfully proclaiming God’s Word includes addressing the conduct of those in authority. He argues that fear of criticism too often keeps pastors from addressing issues their congregations urgently need to understand.

The conversation examines the sanctity of human life, parental rights, and the need to speak clearly about God’s design for male and female. The pastors also express frustration with Republican officials and candidates who retreat from these issues and miss opportunities to engage minority communities around shared convictions.

Their challenge extends beyond any single party or election. Christians must hold candidates accountable, participate consistently in midterm and local elections, and consider serving on school boards, library boards, and in other elected offices.

Near the close, Pastor Pittman points to Mark 8:34 and Jesus Christ’s call to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. Faithfulness requires courage—including a willingness to identify publicly with Christ and His Word.

Pastor Lindstrom reminds listeners that trusting God’s sovereignty never excuses neglecting the duties He has given us. We can rest in His ultimate authority while faithfully doing the work before us.

Please pray for our state and nation, encourage others to vote according to biblical principles, and consider where God is calling you to serve.

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