Never argue religion or politics

The best way to lose a friend or alienate someone is to argue with them about religion or politics. One-third of the world’s population professes Christianity while the remaining two-thirds follow other religions. Within Christianity, there are interdenominational differences. For example, is baptism essential to salvation or is it faith alone? Some say that faith without works is dead. Many believe in the doctrine of “once saved, always saved.” Others contend that salvation is lost through “backsliding.’” Are God, Jesus and Holy Spirit separate divine beings, or do they comprise the Trinity? In baptism, do we submerge or sprinkle? Are the bread and wine in Lord’s Supper the actual body and blood of Christ, or is it symbolic? Is Sunday the Sabbath or is it Saturday? The list goes on.

Politics is the next “no-no.” Some prefer one candidate, while others favor another. In the political arena are varied beliefs on how government should be run. There are capitalists and there are socialists. Some are democrats; others are republicans. In the middle are independents. No one should impose his/her will over another on how to vote. Every person is entitled to vote or worship in accordance with the dictates of his or her conscience, without coercion.

As I write this, there are some intense and animated conversations going on in our communities and homes regarding what direction this country should take after the November elections. Three constitutional amendments (15th, 19th, and 26th) guarantee the voting rights of all U.S. citizens. These rights cannot be denied due to race, color, sex and those over age 18. The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy. Any restrictions on that right, strike at the heart of a constitutional republic.

There were no “representative” governments in Old Testament days or during the time of Christ. In those times, kings, emperors or military conquerors, ruled most empires. In that context, Deuteronomy 1:13 decrees: “Choose for your tribes wise, understanding, and experienced men, and I will appoint them as your heads.” Romans 13:1-14 implores: “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”

It is enticing to join in a discussion on religion and/or politics, but the best advice is not to get involved. A man and his wife were disagreeing about whom to vote for in the November election. The following week, the husband showed up in public with a black spot under his eye. Every eligible voter is encouraged to vote in the upcoming election.

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