On Wednesday, October 29, 2008, Bob Menges, a member of our Christians in Action ministry team, will lead an election information session titled The 2008 Election: A Christian Worldview Primer on the Electoral Process during the midweek LIFT segment at 6:30 p.m. Let me clarify this once more to be sure you know what he will be talking about in this session. Please know that this is not a theological exposition on the Biblical doctrine of election. Dr. Peter Beck taught the doctrine of election during our XCav 8 reformation study during the second quarter of this year.
Instead, Bob Menges will discuss the presidential election, November 4, 2008, and the candidates positions on issues important to people of faith. As a member of the Christians in Action Team Bob is well-informed on the wide spectrum of topics that should shape our approach to this election and our choice of candidates. Furthermore, Bob is a passionate advocate of our republican form of government and the responsibilities of citizenship. I know this will be an informative time.
"Electile Dysfunction" includes the belief that our population is basically uninformed in exercising the franchise of the vote! Sadly, many citizens will make voting decisions based on the superficial data offered to them by the mainstream media, who are totally biased in their presentation of material. In the information age, however, more comprehensive studies are available to provide a deeper view of the candidates, their positions, associations, voting records, experience, financial integrity, and personal lives, all germane to our support of them.
Many pastors and church officials are fearful of becoming entangled in political intrigues or anything that may approach endorsing candidates. This is another symptom of "electile dysfunction", the over-application of a supposed wall of separation between church and state. Yes, there is a fine line here, and we must learn to walk it. At the same time, believers must engage and impact the culture. This means that spiritual leaders must speak on the issues that touch a Biblical worldview and encourage not only participation in the electoral processes but wise stewardship of the vote. Therefore, pastors and church leaders must educate and inform their congregations when the contrast of these views is so starkly evident among the candidates, but camouflaged by the press.
There's no pill for "electile dysfunction". But, there is a cure. Be informed. That's a start.
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