The Elections – Part I
Since the inauguration and the major elections are now over, I might as well start here with what I consider a serious observation of our people in office. Certainly a great deal cannot be covered in one blog, but I have noted something in particular about many of our elected officials: There is no indication that many believe they will answer to God for the way they conduct the office and the duties they are elected to. Have you ever heard any of them say that they knew their office was a solemn or sacred responsibility and that they knew they were accountable to God for it? For that matter, have you had any say they were accountable to anyone?
From Genesis to Revelation, God has always called people to account – especially those in leadership, from Moses, to Saul, to David, to Solomon, all the kings of Israel, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, Belshazzar of the Chaldeans, and King Herod of Acts chapter 12. Though many of these had successful reigns, all had first-hand experience with the standards that God requires of leaders. Remember, God called those to account who just received a few talents.
All of these kings mentioned are certainly worthy of study in light of this subject, but the story of King Herod is very much worthy of note (read the whole chapter). Herod was a Jew whose reign and character were going downhill in a hurry. Finally he crossed the line when he entertained the thought and received the adulation that he was a “god”. His rule was abruptly ended. Though God presents Himself as abounding in love and mercy, throughout the scriptures we see evidence that He will only put up with so much for so long. If you read the whole chapter, you have to come to the conclusion: that with Herod’s death, mercy was being shown to the church. It is interesting to think about why this happened particularly with Herod. Many conclusions can likely be drawn, but it is interesting that Herod was coming against the leaders of the church, and it is stated that the church was praying without ceasing.
It can be noted that we function in much the same way. It is our desire to show mercy and compassion, but don’t we have standards? We don’t let just anything go in our households – and you might very well hurt someone who is trying to hurt someone in your family. If any of you run a business, you don’t let just anything go – you will try to work with people and help them fit in and do a good job, but sometimes a person needs to be fired! In our little “kingdoms” where we are responsible, we often do not hesitate to take action when needed. We will only put up with so much for so long. It is interesting that if you study the Bible, you will see God’s standard’s across the board for leadership – in the nation of Israel, in business, in the family, in the church, and in government.
Many of our leaders do not mind calling down others. They do not mind getting in the face of anyone who would challenge them. They would do well to remember that the God who raised them up to such a level of leadership, can take them down just as easily. Any of the aforementioned leaders could advise them on these matters.
