On Sunday, August 3, Apostle Jeffrey Shuttleworth delivered a presentation on the theme ‘The Christian Vote’ at the Tarrant Baptist Church as part of the Freedom Come Rain newspaper’s fifth anniversary celebration and listed 10 reasons why Christians should vote.
See reasons below.
1. Voting publicly recognises that we submit to the authority of the political system in our nation as established by God. That is why we must ensure that we are a part of the process in cultivating and ratifying any system that is put in place.
2. Voting recognises the equality of all people and their right to speak and to be heard.
3. It is one way that we can obey God’s command to seek the good of those around us and our nation as a whole.
4. It shows that we care deeply about who our leaders are, as we are urged to offer prayer and intercession on their behalf.
5. It is a simple yet significant way we can do something about politics in our nation. Remember, all that is required for evil to prevail is for good men or women to do nothing.
6. It makes a difference the way a grain of salt makes a difference.
When I say it one more time, voting, when the Christian votes, it makes a difference the same way a grain of salt makes a difference. And that is how we are to influence our society for good.
7. It is a privilege not to be taken for granted.
Voting is a privilege not to be taken for granted. Those of us who reap the benefits of living in a democracy should play a part in upholding democracy. And I put a bookmark there to make this point.
History has shown that the only religion which facilitates the flourishing of democracy is the Judeo-Christian religion. If democracy is to work at its optimum, the Christians must be a part of it and especially in leadership. Then you get the best out of democracy.
8. Not voting is a form of voting. I’m going to say it one more time. Not voting is a form of voting.
So when you sit on your larynx and say, May I vote? You have actually voted. So not voting is a form of voting, as it will influence the outcome of the election. We need to take responsibility for our actions as well as our lack of action.
9. Voting has biblical precedence. For example, in Acts 14, verse 23, where it describes the early church voting and electing elders. Finally, voting is part of our stewardship. To use all the resources we have been given in ways that honour God.
10. To waste your vote is to squander a gift. A gift given to you by God.
