by Ben Kinchlow

There is an interesting phenomenon taking place regarding Washington, D.C. On one hand, there is rejoicing, on the other, dismay. Some are distraught over the quick resolution, while others bemoan the fact that it went on "so long". This is part of the paradox of living in a free society. We often forget this valid truth…. "because I disagree with you does not necessarily mean I am right and you are wrong, or visa versa. It just means we don’t see the same set of facts the same way."

It is for this reason that transcendent standards of right and wrong are essential. Without "standards", a Biblical truth which forecasts chaos is manifest in society…. "every man did that which was right in his own eyes". People will only agree with you when you agree with them is clearly evident when we talk to people about the two topics some have agreed never to discuss… religion and politics. These deeply held beliefs or convictions which, though ostensibly separate, are actually offshoots of the same root. A man’s religion (or lack thereof) will be reflected in his politics. In fact, you might say politics is the public expression of one’s private religion. Your view of "your God" will determine how you treat your fellow man, and the treatment of the fellow man is articulated in the body of rules, regulations, laws, minutiae, that are collectively referred to as government.

Politics (honorable, in the true sense of the word) is the public side of government conducted by those whom, in our form of government, are elected to represent the people. Consequently, "the views" (political/religious) of the current ruling party (whichever that may be) are supposedly those of the majority of the electorate ("…. government of the people, for the people, by the people…").

The policies and procedures, and the laws and freedoms which contribute to, and are supported by, public opinion and/or morality do, therefore, reflect the presence or the absence of the God of the people. Politics and religion (in the true Biblical sense of the word) are, therefore, inseparable.

The real tragedy in Washington is the fact that the "transcendent truths" of right and wrong have been "transcended" by political expediency. As a result, "truth" is no longer "truth", but an arranging of information to meet the political expediency of the moment.

"So justice is driven back, and righteousness stands at a distance; truth has stumbled in the streets, honesty cannot enter. Truth is nowhere to be found…." (Isaiah 59:14-15a)

To look at the current state of affairs, and the political climate of America, one could draw from "in God we trust", a very warped perspective of the God in Whom we trust. One might be inclined to think that truth, equity, verity, integrity, and veracity are words that are not to be taken literally, but are figurative in their application to everyday life. A legitimate position could be taken that such words should only be used in religious documents or ancient historical documents which have no practical value, and certainly no current modern applications. Consequently, a promise should not be construed to imply any degree of permanence, and contracts are only enforceable by the most proficient attorney in a lawsuit. Values should not be attached to a man’s word, and character should not at all be an issue in hiring individuals. Based on present polls and public opinions (according to the press) one might reasonably argue, therefore, that the God of the Bible really is not at all like the God of the Bible, who demands truth, justice, integrity, and equity.

For a perfect summary of the state of affairs today, read Isaiah 59:1-15.