The Bible and the Ballot: Using Scripture in Political Decisions

Longman (How to Read Daniel), professor emeritus of biblical studies at Westmont College, considers Christian interpretations of key political issues in this solid resource for evangelicals. After a careful explanation of the historical landscape during the composition of the Bible, Longman shares fundamental principles that have guided Christian thinking about political issues and ground his arguments: humans are beings in the image of God who are trapped in sin but are capable of redemption and wisdom. He then devotes one chapter each to ten issues in contemporary American life: abortion, the environment, immigration, nationalism, poverty, racism, religious liberty, same-sex marriage, social justice, and war. Some of his positions may surprise conservatives, including that religious liberty should not shield Christians from consequences (for instance, for refusing to offer services to same-sex couples), or his frank concerns that capital punishment has become overutilized. Others will make liberals uncomfortable, including his argument against same-sex marriage, or his belief that economic fears should trump actions on counteracting climate change. His most forceful points, especially the need to reconsider immigration and fight poverty and racism, highlight a powerful ability to deploy the Bible to cut through talking points. Evangelicals will find much food for thought in this cogent, well-argued guide. (Jan.)