In our day, Christians face a challenging task: how to speak faithfully into a culture that is increasingly confused, divided, and resistant to biblical truth. The temptation is either to withdraw in silence or to shout in ways that confuse the gospel with a political programme. Yet there is a better way. This might help us keep balance: Gospel always, boldness often, politics sometimes, partisanship rarely.
Boldness is needed
We should begin by affirming and encouraging those believers who are unafraid to speak the Word of God publicly. In a society that often calls good evil and evil good, it is no small thing when Christians take their stand on the unchanging truth of Scripture. Whether it be on issues of life, marriage, justice, or the uniqueness of Christ, it takes courage to raise one’s voice. We must not be ashamed of such boldness, but thankful for it. The apostles prayed not for safety, but for boldness (Acts 4:29). We need men and women who will do the same today.
So let us honour those who, like the prophets of old, call the nation to repentance. Let us support those who dare to say that God has spoken, and that His Word still has authority over every realm of life. Such voices are desperately needed. Without them, society drifts further into darkness. But — and this is the critical point — such boldness must always serve the gospel, not a partisan cause.
Patriotism and nationalism
It is right to love the country in which God has placed us. Patriotism, properly understood, is gratitude and prayer for the nation’s good. The Lord commanded His people in exile to seek the welfare of Babylon (Jer. 29:7). Likewise, Christians in Britain should desire blessings for our land, pray for our leaders, and give thanks for the privileges of our heritage.
The gospel is not American. It is not British. It is not Conservative or Labour, Republican or Democrat. It is the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ, for all who repent and believe.
