The mid-term elections are Nov. 3, and Evangelical Christians need to get out and vote. Past polls show the share of the Evangelical vote continues to decline, and that’s a shame. We have no right to complain about the direction of our nation, state or county if we don’t have any skin in the game.

By: Pastor Jerry Cook

Ed. Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the individual author or authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of KHTS Radio and its staff.

Speaking to pastors for a moment, you must speak up and speak out concerning the pressing issues of our time. Stop repeating the mantra of defeatism by saying things like “As a pastor, I should just stay in my lane.” If you are a pastor who feels this way, might I offer a few helpful suggestions:

Pastors are citizens, too. Therefore, you should not be silent about the direction of our nation just because you’re a pastor. In fact, you ought to be the clearest, providing a model for your congregations.

Pastors should be transparent and honest. The average congregant should not have to wonder where their pastor stands on the hot button issues of our time. Rather, pastors should be forthright and honest in regards to their biblical convictions and preach sermons to that effect.

Pastors should see political speech as an opportunity for evangelism. Borders, abolitionism, families and health are grounded in God’s word. Therefore you have an awesome opportunity to share these issues through the lens of a Biblical Worldview that points to Jesus Christ.

Now, to the broader Evangelical community, allow me to offer you a few reasons why you should vote this November 3.

Because James 4:17 says “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” That verse says that if you know what you ought to do and you don’t do it you’ve sinned. Do not avoid doing what you know you ought to be doing.

Because Matthew 22:39 says “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” Do you love your neighbor? Do you want what is best for him/her? Do you believe they ought to be making more than they are paying out in taxes? Then vote for candidates who uphold principles that would allow you to fulfill Jesus’ words to “love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Might I also say this in closing: there are no perfect candidates. But that is not an excuse for sitting out this election or any election for that matter. As Christians, you need to do your due diligence by studying the platforms of each political party and their corresponding candidates. Then vote for the candidate who best reflects and mirrors your Biblical Worldview.

Again I say, Evangelicals! Get Off Your Blessed Assurance and Vote!

Jerry R. Cook
Pastor, Freedom’s Way Baptist Church
KHTS Host of Politics & the Pulpit

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