Should christians involve in politics

 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glori­fy your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

PREAMBLE

Today’s article is based on an insightful message from GotQuestions.org, highlighting the importance of aligning Christian beliefs with societal involvement, particularly in politics.

At a time when discussions on faith and politics often lead to heated debates, this message provides clarity from a biblical viewpoint. It emphasises the believer’s primary mission—spreading the gospel—while recognising the role of government within God’s divine plan.

Please read, reflect, and share with others!”

INTRODUCTION

If there is anything that will spark a spontaneous debate, if not an outright argument, it is a discussion involving pol­itics—even among believers. As followers of Christ, what should be our attitude and our involvement with politics? It has been said that “religion and politics don’t mix.” But is that really true? Can we have political views outside the considerations of our Christian faith? The answer is no, we cannot. The Bible gives us two truths regarding our stance towards politics and govern­ment.

• The first truth is that the will of God permeates and supersedes every aspect of life. It is God’s will that takes prece­dence over everything and everyone (Matthew 6:33). God’s plans and purposes are fixed, and His will is inviolable. What He has purposed, He will bring to pass, and no government can thwart His will (Daniel 4:34-35). In fact, it is God who “sets up kings and deposes them” (Daniel 2:21) because “the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes” (Daniel 4:17). A clear understanding of this truth will help us to see that politics is merely a method God uses to accomplish His will. Even though evil men abuse their political power, meaning it for evil, God means it for good, working “all things together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

• Second, we must grasp the fact that our government cannot save us! Only God can. We never read in the New Testament of Jesus or any of the apostles ex­pending any time or energy schooling believers on how to reform the pagan world of its idolatrous, immoral, and corrupt practices via the government. The apos­tles never called for believ­ers to demonstrate civil disobedience to protest the Roman Empire’s unjust laws or brutal schemes. Instead, the apostles commanded the first-cen­tury Christians, as well as us today, to proclaim the gospel and live lives that give clear evidence to the gospel’s transforming power.
• By Rev. Dr Joyce Aryee, the author

Praising Allah and Sending Salu­tations on the Prophet (PBUH):

Alhamdulillah, all praise is due to Allah, the Most Merciful, the All- Wise, Who created us in pairs so we may find tranquility in one another. We send blessings and peace upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who has provided us with the best guidance for our lives, including the sacred institution of marriage.

Introduction

Servants of Allah, today’s khutbah is dedicated to the institution of mar­riage in Islam Part 2—an institution that goes beyond a mere contract. Marriage is a spiritual union and a path through which we fulfill half of our faith. It fosters unity, provides solace, and builds the foundation for a righteous family and society. The renowned scholars, Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ibn Baz (RA) and Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymeen (RA), underscore the importance of marriage in Islam, emphasising that it protects one’s faith, upholds moral boundaries, and nurtures family values. As Sheikh Ibn Baz rightly observed, “Marriage is not only a safeguard for one’s soul but also a fortress for the family and society.”

Today, we will explore the rights and responsibilities in marriage, exam­ine the importance of consent, and discuss the role of legal frameworks in Ghana that protect and honor these principles, ensuring that marriage in Islam is truly a pillar of faith.

Islamic Teachings on Spousal Rights: Insights from Surah Al-Baqarah

Servants of Allah, the Qur’an pro­vides comprehensive guidance on the roles and responsibilities of spouses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (SWT) sets forth principles to create a balanced relationship based on kindness and justice. Allah states:

“And mothers may breastfeed their children two complete years for who­ever wishes to complete the nursing [period]. Upon the father is their provision and their clothing according to what is acceptable. No person is charged with more than his capaci­ty…” (Qur’an 2:233).

This verse emphasises that both parents share responsibilities in raising children. While the mother cares for the child through nursing, the father’s role is to provide financial support. This mutual responsibility fosters a supportive family environment where both parents contribute to the child’s well-being.

Moreover, Sheikh Al-Uthaymeen explained that these roles highlight Islam’s balanced approach to family life, assigning each spouse respon­sibilities that cater to their unique strengths, yet allowing flexibility for circumstances. In the case where either spouse is unable to fulfill their role, mutual support and understand­ing are encouraged to uphold family harmony.

The Farewell Sermon: The Proph­et’s (PBUH) Guidance on Spousal Rights

In the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Farewell Sermon delivered during his last pilgrimage, he spoke about the essential rights and duties of spouses, urging mutual respect and compassion:

“O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah’s trust and with His permission. So, treat them with kindness and respect.”

The Prophet (PBUH) further warned men, saying, “Fear Allah in respect of women, for you have taken them [in marriage] with the trust of Al­lah.” He reminded that on the Day of Judgment, Allah would hold men accountable for their treatment of their wives. This reminder is profound, highlighting that marriage is a trust from Allah, and mistreatment or ne­glect of this responsibility will lead to accountability before Allah.

 By Imam Alhaji Saeed Abdulai – 1BN Michel Camp, Tema