Pastor Advocates for Christian Involvement in Politics

Pastor Josh Howerton expresses a strong belief that Christians should actively engage in politics, stating they have a “spiritual responsibility to vote.” This perspective contrasts with some who argue against such involvement.

Howerton elaborates, noting that the Bible establishes three key institutions: the family, the church, and the nation. He draws parallels among them, suggesting that just as a husband has a duty to lead his family, and pastors to guide their congregations, national leaders also hold a significant responsibility.

“We live in a constitutional republic, not a democracy,” he emphasizes. In this system, the electorate essentially tops the organizational chart, placing the onus on voters to participate responsibly.

He mentions that some well-meaning Christians might be overlooking this duty, which he considers a bit naive.

Drawing insights from Romans 13, he believes God ordained government and leaders within this framework. He asserts that voting Christians are positioned to play a crucial role at this time and place in the republic.

“If men neglect to lead their families, we’re in trouble. If pastors are passive in their roles, that’s a problem too. And if Christians avoid their duty to vote and guide the nation, I think we’re in serious trouble,” he warns. The urgency, according to Howerton, stems from the notion that, “whatever God creates, Satan will attempt to exploit.”

He references Genesis 2 and 3, where Adam’s failure to lead allowed Satan to encroach upon his family’s leadership. Similarly, in Revelation, he points out instances of passive pastors who failed to guide their churches away from sin, leading them to become, in effect, ‘synagogues of Satan.’

Howerton warns that if spiritually inclined individuals do not take the lead in shaping the country through voting, those who lack a connection to God will fill the void instead.