The "Religious Right" has given Christians the ability to become ignorant in politics. This whole movement became popular and greatly influenced my thoughts on politics growing up. Basically their main contention is this:
As a Christian you should not vote for anyone who takes a pro-choice stance on abortion.
Obviously there are many more arguments from this group of people involving politics, but this is their biggest and the one that defines their vote.
My response will be numbered:
1. This reasoning allows for incredible laziness. That basically tells people, "don't worry about any issue besides one. If the candidate supports pro-choice, then don't vote for them. It doesn't matter what the other person's stances are on every other subject, if they are against abortion then you should vote for them."
2. Roe vs. Wade happened in 1973. That is ten years before I was born. How long are we going to put all of our chips in that hand?
3. Every conservative candidate that has been on the ticket for the Republicans since Roe vs. Wade has been in favor of allowing abortions in certain circumstances (mainly if the life of the mother is in danger). If I were in a debate and I had the Repubs declaring that it was murder to abort a baby I would easily argue that there is no way they can allow for abortions in certain circumstances because that would still be murder. But you don't hear pastors that bash pro-choice say anything about that. It wouldn't be good for their argument.
4. The last poll on Pres. George W. showed that only 64% of Republicans favored his leadership. That is incredibly low for your own side. But even now if it were George W. vs. Obama or anybody for that matter the Relig Right would still tell you to vote for W. even though you know how terrible of a job he has done. No matter how much money he wants to waste on sending our troops to die for a meaningless cause... abortion would still be more important. No matter how shady and secretive his administration has been... the only thing that would matter would be his stance on abortion and you would still be told to vote for him. That is stupid.
5. This is probably my last point on this. All of this nonsense assumes that God would be surprised if a Democrat won the election... and if that person did then God couldn't carry out His plans for the country or whatever you believe in that matter. Do you really think that religion plays that big of a role in politics? Maybe the church should be under more persecution in this country so we actually have something to fight for. Maybe we should not be allowed to go to church anymore or read our bibles. Maybe then we could actually care about carrying out the plans of Jesus and not think that it all depends on who is in the White House. Maybe we should take more responsibility in our homes and fess up that our families are a mess because of us and not because of Washington.
Nobody wants to take responsibility for anything and that is what is frustrating. We minimize this election to abortion and stupid commercials. McCain is running ads that compare Obama to Paris Hilton and Britney Spears and we laugh even though we know that is weak and stupid. Obama runs a strong and positive campaign and it is hard for us to find things wrong with him. He has integrity, he respects his opponents and he speaks as well or better than Ronald Reagan. So we go back to the abortion issue.
Weak.
16 comments:
Hey Jason,
I am not one who can write my opinions well but I do know this.
one: If a candidate that is pro-life except for safety of mother is a Coward. You believe it's murder or it's not.
Two: I would be considered a "religious right " to some people, and to group us all under that Umbrella as to that as being our defining vote is stereo typing. That would be like saying all Dem. are Liberal which they all are not.
Three: All the Religious Right that I know are not lazy in politics. They research the candidates, they look into the kind of people that the candidates were inspired by, or are friends with.
Four: The Rel. Right that I know are conservative first. Conservative not Republicans, nowadays there is a big difference.
Conservative as being described as:
Belief in God
Hatred of Big government:
Ronald Reagan said" Government is not the solution to our problem, Government is the problem"
Preference for Liberty over equality, you can be equal or Free but you can't be both.
Individualism, everyone should have a right to make as much or as little as they choose. That is the American Dream. To have the chance to do what you want, peoples goals in life are different. I know someone that just wants to get by in life, work just enough to collect a check and nothing more, others want far more.
In this lies my problem with Obama, Socalist, redistributing of wealth from ones that earned it to ones that didn't. That is our jobs as Christians to help the ones in need.
We are becoming a Socialist country, the next step after that is communism, then we wouldn't be able to go to church. Obama is Socialist and if that is his his change then I don't want it. P.S. Obama comes from one of the two cities know for corruption in politics, he is just as corrupt as all of the politicians, and I mean ALL of them in both parties!
Thanks for letting me write my opinions! That is another great thing about America!
Brother, I love you. With that, I think we share a bond as brothers in Christ.
Because someone speaks "eloquently" and can read telaprompters with ease doesn't make them ready to run the world's greatest nation. If that were so, vote for me. I'm your guy!
I do not think Iraq was a meaningless war and neither do several of my closest friends who went, and spent their fair share of time there. Granted, nobody wants to be away from home and family (with a risk of never seeing them again), not one, but they ALL have come back thinking they made a difference. Making a difference is not meaningless. When you say a meaningless war, it devalues their service and sacrifice to our country. It devalues all those that made the ultimate sacrifice to their nation.
Onward to the biggest concern, the devaluation of life. As a worship leader, one to the Holy God we both serve and one to which you make those in service ready to receive His wisdom, I can't help but think, you haven't fully thought this out yet. Today's society has put such a devalued slant on children we struggle to understand why crime is at at an all time high. Money is more important so our families have become duel income, child care needing institutions of "ME" type greed. If we cannot stand up for the most innocent and defenseless of our kind, our children, then what have we become...Weak!
If we vote for someone who was mentored and trained by Marxists and Socialist ideologies, our republic will be weak.
If we vote for someone who believe a child is "punishment" rather than a gift of God, then we become weak.
If we vote for someone who stands on an open forum of his state's legislative floor, pronounces that if the abortionist is O.k. with his decision to leave a baby in a medical waste bag as it whales and cries after being taken from the womb as the mother is wheeled out of the room so she doesn't have to hear the cries of the baby as it passes through life, only to be given a few seconds of life because someone wouldn't stand up for it....THAT'S WEAK! It's Infanticide.
What happened to the chilvary of a mother sacrificing her life so her son or daughter could live. Christ did it for you and me, why did we become so weak to think that was a bad thing. For all three of my children, my wife would have given her life at anytime for them to have life. It is an honor to be married to such a heroic woman. I bet the same could be said about your mom.
Brother, rise up, take up that cross and fight for the lives God gave us. Don't dip your hands in a bowl of water, allowing the masses to make the decision for you.
Life is a gift. Don't be weak. Don't bend in the winds of "change." Don't devalue God's gift to all of us...life and the opportunity to serve Him on earth for the years granted to us.
The lives of our children isn't about politics, it's about the gift life is.
I hope all is well with you and the the Lord has been blessing you.
I am glad you guys posted back. I like that. At least somebody reads my garbage. And as long as none of this has any impact on our friendship then we are totally cool.
Michael- I do agree with you that all religious right are not lazy. My point is that the religious right allow someone to be lazy in politics and be ok with it. If all they have to do is vote (R) or (D) or go a little farther and find out who is pro-choice or pro-life and base their vote on that then they have no need to worry about anything else that matters.
For instance when it comes time to vote for Sheriff people are confused because the (R) or (D) doesn't really matter as much. Most of the lazy people probably just choose the party instead of actually looking at the candidate.
My main concern is that I want everyone who votes to look at every issue that is important to them, including abortion. But don't just stop at one and cast a vote based on that.
If we hate big government then why did we not have another conservative run against bush after the first 4 years? The spending, no matter what it is on is so out of control.
Charlie- I do apologize for my wording. The meaningless part of the war is that is has continued on this long. Terrorism will never end and this "War on Terror" will not end it. I also have friends that have fought over there. They come back and are real messed up because of it. I'm sure there are soldiers on both sides of the war just like americans, but when the overwhelming majority of people think that this has gone on too long, it is time to get out.
I think that I am more trying to say that this issue of abortion is pretty much over. Not that it is right or wrong, but that it is not something that will be over-turned. I do understand how the generation older than I am still can feel this is a vital topic, but for those of us in our 20's we have always known that abortion is a way of life.
I do believe that any strong mother or possibly even weak would give up their life so there child could live. I just don't understand why if we harp on abortion so much we pass over the fact that the pro-life candidate still allows for abortions in certain circumstances like that.
In my opinion Michael is right and that person should be considered a coward. And in that sense, if both candidates allow for abortions... we have to look at other topics and make our decisions based on other things.
To the both of you I am glad again that you responded. Ron Paul was actually my first choice. Hope all is going well. Love you guys.
Jason,
This does not change our friendship! As far as the laziness most voters fall in that category, majority of voters fall in line with party votes because that is all they ever voted for. I am very close to going to a third party for the fact that people like McCain can get the Rep. nomination and that Rep. spend just as much as Dems. but they don't care it's not their money! When rep. decided to add global warming (hoax) I mean climate control (change the name because the first didn't stick) to their platform that just might send me over the top to change parties. Now you really are messing with my mind, I can't see how anyone would jump from Ron Paul to Obama! That is like going from Nike to Reebok, Gators to Noles, Marvel to DC. A conservative, constitutionalist, libertarian to a Socialist, Liberal, Marxist you have got to help me with that huge swing.
P.S. No one will try and run against their parties sitting President.
Go Gators!
As Iron Sharpens Iron, this too can sharpen our friendship. True friends don't tear up a relationship because of a disagreement. We're all good, bro!
Oh and one more thing...the war in Iraq...we AGREE...way, way too long. Too much politics and not enough allowing the soldiers to be soldiers. My dad, MSGT Fish of the USAF, RET, used to always tell me, "The military is there to blow things up. When you let politicians get involved, they hinder the military's primary mission." So we agree...way too long. If WWII could be done in 5 years, this should have been 3 and out.
Geez jason, you have some serious balls throwing this out there like that, and oddly enough, i agree with everything you have said. I'm a communist, remember?
The last 2 elections i blindly voted for Bush because it was what i was brainwashed to do. Not that i think that Kerry would have gotten my vote, but Gore might have. But that convo is for another time and another place.
I have thrown myself into this election more than i thought i was going to. And i have come out realizing that the abortion issue, no matter pro-life or pro-choice, will ever be changed. That said, I will never allow the abortion issue to sway my vote ever again. I will never put my faith in the government to do the right thing.
I feel like if i where to vote for McCain , i would be voting for Bush all over again. I hate Bush, he is a failure, and i am glad his time is soon over.
What is really funny is I dont see anything wrong with the government helping the poor. Christians dont, so why should I care if the government wants to?
I think i might have said to much. Ill stop here. Peace in the Middle East.
Comrade(JK) I meant Danny,
I don't think your Communist, Socialist maybe. Our differences in politics do not change my view of our friendship, I hope you feel the same. With that said I would disagree with you that Christians do give! I give and not just with my tithe. Even with not knowing if I will have work next week I give.I give because of what Christ did for me. I know of over forty other Christians who gave over 3000.00 to a family who was out of work. I know of twenty Christians who gave food, clothing, linens, and other home supplies to a family that is struggling, with the willingness to give more when needed. I could go on and on with examples of what I know to be true, Christians do give not only with money, but their time and talents as well. If you have the love of Jesus, how can you not give! You say you will never put your faith in the Government to do the right thing, that is the smartest thing I have ever heard you say. Everything the government has ever got their hands on, they have screwed it up. So why would you think they would do any different when it comes to them taking money from one who prospers and give it to the needy. They only want to do that so that the needy will become more dependent on who, the government! Why would I want to excel when I know someone who doesn't have the desire to work will benefit from my hard work. Why would someone who has no motivation, be motivated to work if they know they will benefit from someone's hard work. I know that there is a small percentage of people who can't work, that is where the church and other organizations come in. Government needs to stay out of our lives not be intrenched in it! I hope you think about that. I am not rich, but I have done okay. I grew up poor! My mom was on welfare, we had to have the free lunch program at school, had all the off brand of clothes, on and on, I have been in both places.I will wrap it up by saying the biggest difference is this: Give a man a fish and feed him for a day (liberalism, Socialism ), teach a man to fish and feed him for a lifetime (Conservatism) I hope you take this the right way. Michael
Michael, that was some of the most well thought out summaries of your beliefs to date. Great wisdom there.
As far as our Comrad's beliefs, it puzzles me that Danny's so willing to help the poor but unwilling to help the children. That's silly, in fact, it's lunacy, but I still love him.
Danny, whenever you want to see how much I've given to charity and the poor, come on over, and then I'll show you how much Mr. Obama has given. I'm not willing to show you my records because I'm a show off; rather, I'm willing to show you because I put my money where my mouth is. The same CANNOT (by his own records, even for his care of his half brother) be said about Obama. McCain is willing to put his body on the line for his beliefs (need I remind you of his five years as a POW). Obama won't even help his brother, a brother who lives on 12 bucks a month. He's a powerful speaker, but a dud when it comes to action. He's just another blowhard. Wake-up brother! If you thought Bush was bad, Obama's policies will make Jimmy Carter's presidency worthy of a face placed on Mount Rushmore.
McCain is not Bush. Truth be told, most in politics know that the Bushs and McCain really don't like each other.
Get past Bush and see the light. My invitation stands!
Ha! I could never let politics get in the way of any friendship. Politics is lame and it only divides people.
The end of my comment was mainly half serious and half just a jab for reaction. And maybe if i had more money i would care more about the issue, but i dont have more money, and when i pay in taxes more than i make in a month, anything the government could give me extra would be welcomed with open arms.
After listening to Palin running her mouth and pushing the real issues under the rug, lies about her past and just the sad fact that as of right now, both McCain and Palin are pushing emotion and pity as reason to vote for them. I am tired of hearing that the reason to vote for them is because he’s a former P.O.W., she’s a ‘hockey’ mom, and forgetting the fact that the economy hurting, and this war has no solution.
and now im just ranting... i am so ready for thie election to get over its not even funny.
Obama, McCain and every other politician claim to move the mountains that only Jesus can and that is what pisses me off the most. Change? C'mon. There is nothing new under the sun.
Obama can take my money. McCain can give it back. Jesus said to look at the birds of the air - they do not sow, reap or store away in barns and yet they are fed.
As far as the children go...
Yes, I am sad that people get abortions. I am sad mainly for the moms who have to live with the decision. I am sad that they feel like that is their only option. And whether or not it is legal, people will find a way to do what they think they have to do. The only thing that will keep women from getting abortions is heart change. The only person that changes hearts is Jesus.
You know what? we go on and on about the children but ignore a lot of real issues. Why are 1 out of 150 kids autistic these days? Why aren't drug companies held responsible for what they put into vaccines? Why can we not figure out a way to make healthy and dare I say organic food affordable for all families so that children can get the nutrition they need instead of being put on medication all the time?
The above is just one example of how politicians will never put people ahead of money.
I hate all this crap.
Jesus for President.
Jesus for President indeed!
Jesus doesn't want to be President. Just Lord of your life.
O.K. Now I have to get off my shiney white horse. Thanks for the political fun guys. This stuff sure beats dealing with anonymous rants. Just pray for the right decision to make and do it.
ill probably just flip a coin... heads mccain, swastika obama
I know Jesus doesn't want to be president. but I want him to be. so I'm going to write him in.
Hey Jason. I realize that commenting on your blog is a strange way to get back in touch after several years! Regarding this issue, I encourage you explore what Albert Mohler (Pres of SBTS) has said in several blogs and podcasts over the past couple of weeks. The podcast from Oct 14 is a particularly good one. He also addresses in one of his blogs those who believe that we should "give up the fight" and move on to other issues.
To sum up his approach:
Firstly, it is possible to be a well-informed, intellectual voter and still allow a biblical worldview to guide your decision.
Secondly, no matter where one falls on this debate, everyone has a hierarchy of issues in which one or two take top priority over others. That may be the right to wealth for some, of health care for others, or the right to life for others. Apparently, in this election, the right to keep our America dream status that you cry out against is on the minds of most Americans.
Thirdly, given the extreme stance of Senator Obama on this issue (the most extreme in candidate history) and the documented promises he has made to enact his wishes, countless lives are at stake.
Fourthly, look at where a secular mindset and freedom of abortion has brought Russia, 64% of all pregnancies end in aboriton. In our country alone, 90% of all children who are known to have Down's syndrome in the womb are aborted.
Fifthly, a reversal of the Hyde amendment, which Obama will attempt to do, will result in the federal funding of abortion, meaning you and I who pay taxes will be funding not only abortions, but infanticide if he had his way.
As believers we seek the kingdom of God first, believing the other worldly necessities are added to us. The right to wealth or even any money is not given us by God, but it IS the job of the church to help them. The right to health is not guaranteed us by God, but it is the job of the church to look after the sick. The right to life and sanctity of life is given us by God, and though this right is being infringed by the war that we are in, many, many more lives will unjustly be taken if Obama's abortion legislation were to be passed than would be taken in the current wars if McCain is elected.
Just food for thought. Mohler explains it better than I ever could.
And by the way, congrats on your marriage and on the opportunity to serve at FBC Orlando! They just sent a team to minister to us this past summer in Thailand, and they were a huge blessing.
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