How should we choose those individuals who would represent us in the halls and offices of government?
In His written word, The Lord God set forth certain basic requirements – minimum standards – for those who would seek or hold public office. The attributes were set forth in those early days when The Sovereign Lord God ordained and activated civil government. They were also set forth in the New Covenant as criteria regarding those who should hold office in church government. His standards are eternal; they should be our standards now. They provide a measuring rod Christians should employ as we consider the candidates and select those who will represent us in government today.
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being best), how does the candidate rate based on these criteria?
- “Loves righteousness and hates iniquity, a person of truth” (an unrighteous person will be an unrighteous official). Ex. 18:21.
- Known to be wise in the fear (respect) of The Lord and His word. Ex. 18:21; Deut. 1:13; 17:15.
- Seeks truth rather than prestige or personal profit and power. Deut. 1:17; 2 Chron. 19:6,7.
- Will not succumb to flattery or be bought by favors or bribery. Deut. 16:19.
- Will put the best (true) interests of the people above the pressures of private and special interests. Deut. 17:17; Lev. 19:15.
- One who will seek justice, knowing that justice will be found only in obedience to God’s holy word. Deut. 16:18; 2 Sa. 23:3.
- Is blameless, without scandal in personal or public life (for this and 8, 9, & 10 see 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Ex. 20:1-17).
- Is not a squish, but is firmly grounded in the Bible and strong in the faith. Not covetous (v.3).
- Governs self and household well (personal habits and conduct of those who seek office are rightly matters of concern, v. 4-5; Pro. 25:28).
- Exercises sound judgment; acts to uphold God’s purposes for and principles of self and civil government (v. 6-7; Mk. 12:16-17).
“When you become entitled to exercise the right of voting for public officers, let it be impressed on your mind that God commands you to choose for rulers just men who will rule in the fear of God. The preservation of a republican government depends on the faithful discharge of this duty. If the citizens neglect their duty and place unprincipled men in office, the government will soon be corrupted; laws will be made not for the public good so much as for the selfish or local purposes. Corrupt or incompetent men will be appointed to execute the laws; the public revenues will be squandered on unworthy men; and the rights of the citizens will be violated or disregarded.
“If a republican government fails to secure public prosperity and happiness, it must be because the citizens neglect the divine commands, and elect bad men to make and administer the laws.” – Noah Webster
“John Beal was a sort of godfather of local Spokane area Christian and Constitutional political thought. He taught many classes on Christian civics, including the Institute on the Constitution, The Truth Project, a study through the book “The 5,000 Year Leap,” and much more. John ran for Congress here in the 5th District back in 1998 and was active in the Constitution Party. You would be hard pressed to find a Constitutionalist in the Spokane area who did not cross paths with John and most would count him a mentor.” – Robert W. Peck, chair of the WA State Constitution Party
