Let's quibble. Sadly contemporary ethical standards no longer permit pastors and spiritual leaders a voice in the complex political matters during voting season. Endorsing candidates or political parties are a definite no-no in the new moral code. Many pundits even suggest that voters leave their faith in the car when voting day comes. In the new world, faith and politics don't mix. This new system is especially baffling when almost every research analyst identifies the Christian vote as such a significant factor in American voting history. In 2016 the evangelical Christian vote was identified as the story of that election. Now, in the lead-up to election 2020, where so many moral and ethical matters will depend on election results, the media and many politicians are seeking to quiet the Christian voice on election day.
So, let's stop the political and election blather and get serious about the issues of election 2020. And, there are many of them. Recent studies by some reputable observers indicate that the primary voting issues for Christians this year are terrorism, immigration, and health care. And, yes, these are concerns for most of us. But, not the primary issues. Well, you know, finishperiod.com doesn't have a research department and therefore can't cite accurate statistical analysis. My personal research is more personal, the circle of friends, colleagues, and ministry professionals who will share their ideals regarding the issues in 2020. Three voting issues seem to be most prevalent in recent coffee shop and casual interactions---
1. The Sanctity of Human Life.
I read a very long and detailed analysis of the human rights issues prevalent in the coming election. Their list included equality and equal opportunity: troubles in the criminal legal system; racial discrimination; women's rights; immigration; LGBTQ rights; privacy, data protection, and digital rights; climate crisis and toxic pollution; national security; and foreign policy. Not one mention of the sanctity of human life or abortion. More than 60,000,000 legal abortions have occurred in the United States since 1973, the year Row v. Wade recognized a woman's right to abort their child. In the evangelical Christian community it is our nation's most deplorable sin. Many evangelical Christians are one issue voters and will not vote for those holding a pro-choice view.
2. Judicial Appointments.
The Row v. Wade decision by the SCOTUS in 1973 is under review in many lower courts. Conservative voters know that the next Presidential administration will most likely have the opportunity to nominate additional Supreme Court justices. This is an important but less promoted issue for Christian voters.
3. The Safety of our Citizens.
Many cities are eliminating funding of their police departments and security personnel. This is of great concern to Christian voters, especially our older friends. It is more a local election issue to be decided by mayors and city council members across the nation. It will, however, be a platform item in the 2020 election. Christians should explore this agenda item before November 3.
Scripture references the issues of government and faith, and the influence of faith in the life of a nation. Here are several examples---
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his
heritage!
Psalm 33: 12, ESV
Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.
Proverbs 14: 34, ESV
When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people
groan.
Proverbs 29: 2, ESV
Yes, there are candidates, political parties, and their minions. The game is on and they chase our votes. The world says to keep your faith to yourself and choose your favorite candidate. No, choose faith as the basis of those issues that will go with you into the voting booth. Vote your faith.
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