Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Elections, in the modern sense, refer to the process by which individuals are chosen for public office through voting. While the Bible does not explicitly mention democratic elections as practiced today, it does provide principles and examples of leadership selection that can inform a Christian understanding of elections. Biblical Principles of Leadership Selection: The Bible emphasizes the importance of godly leadership and the role of divine guidance in selecting leaders. In the Old Testament, leaders were often chosen by God directly or through prophetic guidance. For example, God chose Saul and later David to be kings over Israel (1 Samuel 9:15-17; 1 Samuel 16:1-13). The selection of leaders was often accompanied by anointing, symbolizing God's blessing and authority. Qualifications for Leaders: Scripture outlines specific qualifications for leaders, emphasizing character and godliness. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul provides qualifications for church leaders, which can be applied to civil leaders as well. In 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9, Paul lists qualities such as being above reproach, self-controlled, hospitable, able to teach, and not given to drunkenness or violence. These passages highlight the importance of integrity and moral character in leadership. The Role of the People: While the Bible does not describe democratic elections, it does acknowledge the role of the community in affirming leaders. In Acts 6:3, the apostles instructed the early church to select seven men of good reputation to oversee the distribution of food, indicating a communal role in leadership selection. This suggests that the community's discernment and affirmation are valuable in the process of choosing leaders. Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility: The Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all nations and leaders. Proverbs 21:1 states, "The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases." This underscores the belief that God ultimately guides the course of nations and their leaders. However, human responsibility is also emphasized. Believers are called to pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2) and to seek justice and righteousness in their communities (Micah 6:8). Christian Engagement in Elections: Christians are encouraged to engage in the political process as a means of promoting godly values and justice. While the Bible does not prescribe a specific political system, it calls believers to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), influencing society for good. Participation in elections can be seen as an opportunity to advocate for policies and leaders that align with biblical principles. Challenges and Considerations: Christians may face challenges in navigating the political landscape, including the temptation to compromise on biblical values or to place undue trust in political systems. It is important for believers to maintain their primary allegiance to Christ and His kingdom, recognizing that earthly governments are temporary and imperfect. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide a direct blueprint for modern elections, it offers timeless principles for selecting and supporting leaders who reflect godly character and justice. Christians are called to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully in the political process, seeking to honor God and promote the common good. Topical Bible Verses Romans 13:1-5Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Topicalbible.org Greek 5586. psephos -- a small smooth stone, a pebble ... vote. 5586 -- properly, a used in ancient elections to ; hence, a (Souter). [People in ancient times often voted by casting . A ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5586.htm - 7k Library It is by all Means Proper that a Bishop Should be Appointed by all ... The Secular Clergy Not Wishing to Overload this Long Essay with Too Many Parentheses. ... Particular Election The Election of those who are to be Appointed to the Priesthood is ... Ordinations are not to be Held in the Presence of Hearers. ... The Ancient Form of Government Utterly Corrupted by the Tyranny of ... Whether Divination by Drawing Lots is Unlawful? The Church and Her Mission, or the Three Constitutional Synods ... Concerning Sacerdotal Consecrations. Resources What is conditional election? | GotQuestions.orgUnconditional election - is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org What is corporate election? | GotQuestions.org Election: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Election of Christ, As Messiah Election of Grace of Christ As Messiah Election of Grace of Good Angels Election of Grace of Ministers Election of Saints, Is by Christ Election of Saints, Is for the Glory of God Election of Saints, Is in Christ Election of Saints, Is of Grace Election of Saints, Is: According to the Foreknowledge of God Election of Saints, Is: According to the Purpose of God Election of Saints, Is: Eternal Election of Saints, Is: Irrespective of Merit Election of Saints, Is: Personal Election of Saints, Is: Recorded in Heaven Election of Saints, Is: Sovereign Election of Saints, Is: Through Faith Election of Saints, Is: Through Sanctification of the Spirit Election of Saints, Is: To Adoption Election of Saints, Is: To Conformity With Christ Election of Saints, Is: To Eternal Glory Election of Saints, Is: To Good Works Election of Saints, Is: To Salvation Election of Saints, Is: To Spiritual Warfare Election: Ensures to Saints: Acceptance With God Election: Ensures to Saints: Belief in Christ Election: Ensures to Saints: Blessedness Election: Ensures to Saints: Divine Teaching Election: Ensures to Saints: Effectual Calling Election: Ensures to Saints: Protection Election: Ensures to Saints: The Inheritance Election: Ensures to Saints: Vindication of Their Wrongs Election: Ensures to Saints: Working of all Things for Good Election: Saints May Have Assurance of Election: should be Evidenced by Diligence Election: should Lead to Cultivation of Graces Related Terms |
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