Title: The Responsibility of Every Believer: The Privilege of Voting.

Introduction:

Good morning, my brothers and sisters. Today, we gather to discuss a topic that profoundly affects our individual lives and the nation as a whole—the responsibility and privilege of voting. There are approximately 26 million Christians in this country who, for one reason or another, choose not to exercise their right to vote. That’s a significant number, and it begs the question: What does God’s Word say about this responsibility? How does our faith guide us in this aspect of citizenship?

The purpose of this message is not to condemn but to inspire each other, with grace and truth, to reflect on the significance of this responsibility per the teachings of God. Let's delve into how the Bible addresses our duty as salt and light in society (Matthew 5:13-16) and how refraining from participation could impede fulfilling God's purpose on earth.

1. The Principle of Stewardship:

*Scripture Reference:*

- **Luke 12:48 (NIV)** - “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”

God has blessed us with many freedoms, including the freedom to vote. As stewards of these blessings, we are responsible for using them wisely and for His glory. Just as we are called to steward our time, talents, and resources, so too are we called to steward our influence in our nation.

**Illustration:**

Imagine being given a gift that could change the course of a family’s future, yet leaving it unopened. The gift represents our ability to influence and to be a voice for righteousness. Voting is one of the ways we can take part in shaping the future. Neglecting to vote is akin to burying that gift, like the servant who buried his talent in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30). When we refuse to engage, we neglect our duty and the opportunity to honor God by being involved in the direction our country takes.

Commentary:

Every Christian has been entrusted with a voice, and every voice has value. When we fail to vote, we relinquish that voice and leave the outcome in the hands of others. Our call as Christians is not to sit on the sidelines but to be active participants, influencing the world for the Kingdom of God. How can we be the salt and light Jesus spoke of if we’re absent from the areas we can influence the most?

2. The Call to Be Salt and Light:

*Scripture Reference:*

- **Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV)** - “You are the salt of the earth... You are the world's light... let your light shine before others, so they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Salt and light represent influence, preservation, and illumination. As Christians, we are called to preserve what is good and righteous and to bring the light of God’s truth into every corner of society. Voting is a way we let our light shine, contributing to our country's moral and Spiritual direction.

**Illustration:**

Think of a lighthouse. Its purpose is to shine a guiding light, leading ships away from danger. When a lighthouse dims its light, it risks disaster for those who depend on it. In the same way, when Christians dim their influence by opting out of voting, we risk allowing decisions to be made that lead the nation toward moral and spiritual danger. Our votes are one of the ways we can keep the light of truth shining.

Quote:

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Voting is one way to refuse to remain silent and speak up for truth, justice, and righteousness.

3. Responsibility and Privilege Go Hand-in-Hand:

*Scripture Reference:*

- **Romans 13:1 (NIV)** - “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. God has established the authorities that exist.”

We often forget that government, flawed as it may be, is an institution established by God. We can engage with that institution by voting and helping to elect leaders who align with Biblical values. While we may not find perfect candidates, we can vote in alignment with principles that reflect God’s heart for justice, mercy, and truth (Micah 6:8).

Commentary:

Abstaining from voting is not a neutral action; it is a decision that has consequences. We are instructed to be subject to governing authorities, and part of that means engaging in the process of choosing those who will govern. The privilege of living in a democracy comes with the responsibility to participate. It is not just about casting a vote for a candidate but voting for the principles of God's Kingdom to be reflected in our leadership.

4. Biblical Consequences of Inaction:

*Scripture Reference:*

- **James 4:17 (NIV)** - “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin.”

This scripture reminds us that when we know what is right but choose not to act, we are held accountable for that choice. Voting is an opportunity to act on what we know is good—to uphold righteousness and justice in our society. To abstain from voting when we are able is to neglect our responsibility.

Illustration:

In 1 Samuel 8, the Israelites asked for a king to lead them. Though warned of the consequences, they persisted. They did not choose wisely, and it led to hardship. We, too, are given the choice to elect our leaders. While we may not have the exact foresight as to what each leader will do, we are equipped with Biblical wisdom to guide us. Not voting leaves that decision to others who may not share the same values or seek God’s guidance.

Conclusion:

Brothers and sisters, we are called to be active participants in God’s world, not passive bystanders. Voting is a powerful way to contribute to the direction of our nation, reflecting God’s love for justice, mercy, and truth. Let us not bury our talents or hide our light under a bushel. Instead, let us engage with the privileges we’ve been given, using our voices to make a difference in the Kingdom of God.

**My Opinion:**

While I now firmly believe that voting is both a privilege and a responsibility for Christians, I did not always believe this to be true or, at best, necessary. With Christian maturity, I realized that it is one way we can influence society toward righteousness, mercy, and justice. While we may not always agree with every political position, we can prayerfully seek God's guidance to vote for leaders and policies most aligned with Biblical values. Our abstention from this process does not align with our call to be active in the world and to influence it for Christ.

In grace, we must encourage others not to miss this opportunity. May God lead us all to see the value of every vote and the difference it can make.

Amen