Understanding Jesus’ Perspective on Politics in Everyday Language
When we talk about politics and religion, it often feels like mixing oil and water—two worlds that don’t easily blend. But what about Jesus? Did he care about politics? Did he want his followers to get involved or stay far away? Let’s break down Jesus’ perspective on politics in straightforward, everyday terms so anyone can understand.
Jesus’ World: The Political Scene in His Time
First, it helps to know what kind of world Jesus lived in. His homeland, Judea, was under Roman rule—a foreign power that controlled everything from taxes to how people could worship. There were also powerful local leaders and religious groups with their own political interests. Some people wanted to fight the Romans. Others wanted to cooperate. Many hoped for a political “messiah” who would kick out the Romans and make Israel great again.
Jesus grew up in the midst of these tensions, surrounded by people with strong opinions about how things should be run. But, surprisingly, he didn’t throw his support behind any group or party.
The Kingdom of God: A Different Kind of Reign
The main focus of Jesus’ message was the “Kingdom of God.” But he didn’t mean a political kingdom with armies, borders, and laws. Instead, he talked about God’s rule in people’s hearts and lives—a spiritual kingdom that starts inside and changes people from the inside out.
When people tried to get Jesus to talk about politics or to take sides, he often gave answers that pointed to something bigger than politics: God’s ultimate authority. He made it clear that his kingdom wasn’t about replacing one government with another but about changing lives and priorities.
Render to Caesar: Navigating Earthly and Spiritual Responsibilities
One of the most famous moments in the Bible about politics comes when someone asks Jesus if it’s right to pay taxes to the Roman emperor (Caesar). This was a loaded question! If Jesus said “yes,” some people would accuse him of supporting the hated Romans. If he said “no,” he could be arrested for rebellion.
Instead, Jesus asked for a coin and pointed out Caesar’s image on it. Then he said, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God.” (You can find this in Mark 12:17 and Matthew 22:21.)
In other words, Jesus recognized that there are things we owe to the government (like taxes or respect for laws), but there are also things that only belong to God (like our loyalty, worship, and ultimate trust). He drew a line between our duties as citizens and our higher calling as followers of God.
Jesus’ Warnings About Politics
Even though Jesus didn’t say “don’t get involved in politics,” he did give some important warnings that are still relevant today.
· Don’t Make Politics Your God: Jesus warned people not to put their hope in earthly rulers or systems. He reminded everyone that only God deserves our deepest trust. If we treat political leaders or parties as the ultimate solution, we risk turning them into idols—things we worship instead of God.
· Beware of Divided Loyalties: Jesus once said, “You can’t serve two masters.” In other words, if your heart is pulled in two directions—between God and political causes—you’ll struggle to truly serve God. It’s fine to care about politics, but it shouldn’t take first place in your life.
· Watch Out for Pride and Hypocrisy: Jesus called out the religious and political leaders of his day for acting self-righteous while secretly chasing power or wealth. He challenged his followers to be humble, honest, and caring—not power-hungry or hypocritical.
· The “Yeast” of Politics and Religion: He also warned about the “yeast of the Pharisees and of Herod.” Yeast is something that spreads through dough and changes it. In this case, Jesus was saying, “Be careful not to let the wrong attitudes from religion or politics take over your heart.”
What About Christians and Politics?
Some people think Jesus’ teachings mean Christians should ignore politics altogether. Others believe Christians should be super-involved and use politics to make the world more like God wants. The truth is somewhere in between.
Jesus taught that his followers should obey the law, respect those in authority (unless those laws go against God’s commands), and work for the good of their communities. The Bible also says to pray for leaders, even if we don’t agree with them.
But Jesus never said that changing laws or winning elections is the main way to build God’s kingdom. He taught that personal transformation—loving God and loving others—is more important than political power.
Being Salt and Light
Jesus told his followers they were like “salt” and “light” in the world. Salt makes food taste better and helps preserve it; light shines in the darkness so everyone can see. In simple terms, Christians are supposed to make their communities and the world a better place by showing kindness, fairness, and love—whether or not they get involved in politics.
That might mean:
· Speaking out against injustice or unfair treatment of people
· Helping neighbors and those in need
· Voting or participating in government in ways that reflect biblical values
· Respecting others’ opinions, even when we disagree
· Keeping politics in its proper place—not letting it become more important than faith or love
Putting Jesus’ Teachings Into Practice Today
So, what does all this mean for us today, when politics can feel so heated and divisive?
First, remember that Jesus calls his followers to focus first on God and his kingdom. Political involvement is fine, but it’s not the main thing.
Second, pay your taxes, follow the law, and respect leaders—unless doing so would force you to go against what you know is right in God’s eyes.
Third, don’t get swept away by political arguments or let your identity get tangled up in party loyalty. Your main identity comes from being a child of God, not a supporter of one party or another.
Fourth, speak up for what’s right, but do it with humility and love. Jesus stood up to injustice, but he never acted out of hate or pride.
Finally, pray for leaders, neighbors, and those you disagree with, remembering that everyone is loved by God.
Conclusion: Jesus and Politics—A Higher Calling
Jesus didn’t start a political movement or run for office. Instead, he invited people into a new kind of kingdom—one where love, justice, and mercy take center stage. He encouraged respect for authorities, but he also called his followers to remember that their ultimate loyalty belongs to God.
In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in political debates and lose sight of what matters most. But Jesus calls us to be different—to seek justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. Politics has its place, but for Jesus, the heart always comes first.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 