The church should never be a political party. But it can't be silent on moral issues just because they've become political.
I hear people say, "The church shouldn't get political." I understand the concern. But I think that phrase gets used to make Christians stay quiet and not use their voices or their votes. We wouldn't tell any other group of people to stay out of politics, but for some reason it's okay to tell Christians to.
In 2024, Missouri voters wrote abortion into our state constitution. The night it passed, I went on a prayer walk and repented for staying too quiet and not using my voice to urge people to vote for life. I don't want to make that mistake again. When the Bible speaks clearly on something, like the value of every human life, I'm going to speak too. "Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute" (Proverbs 31:8 ESV).
At the same time, Jesus didn't come to make us Republicans or Democrats. "Our citizenship is in heaven" (Philippians 3:20 ESV). A political party can become an idol just as easily as money or status. When it does, we start treating people who vote differently as enemies instead of neighbors we're called to love. So here's how I'd hold it:
Pray for your leaders, whoever they are. Paul said to pray "for kings and all who are in high positions" (1 Timothy 2:1–2 ESV), and he wrote that under Nero.
Vote your convictions, based on Scripture, not on a party line.
Speak where God has spoken, and stay humble where He hasn't.
Love your neighbor the day after the election, no matter who won.
Jesus was full of grace and truth and we should be as well! That doesn't change during an election cycle or after it. Show grace to a world that disagrees with us, and stand for truth at the same time.
Scripture: Proverbs 31:8–9; Philippians 3:20; 1 Timothy 2:1–2; Romans 13:1–7; John 1:14