The Broken Machine (Cont’d)
A Corrupted Body Politic
The intersection of faith and politics has long been a contentious topic in American society. But if history has taught us anything it’s that when public discourse is deprived of any discussion of The Bible and its principles, we’re not strengthening our nation’s political life, as many academics like my professor claimed; rather, we’re undermining the very foundation on which our American republic was built. What’s more, this isn’t merely an academic argument, but it also speaks to the very essence of moral and ethical governance. When biblical principles are marginalized, the result is a society rife with moral decay, disillusionment, and cynicism.
To begin with, biblical principles have historically offered a moral compass that has guided social values and legislative decisions. Concepts such as truth, justice, and compassion are deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition. When these vital principles are excluded from public discourse, as seen in debates about welfare, poverty, and social justice, the discussions often devolve into mere political maneuvering, devoid of moral grounding. Consequently, this lack of ethical oversight leads to rampant corruption, as decisions are made based primarily on self-interest rather than the common good.
Removing these principles also aids and abets anyone eager to manipulate the political system. In a constitutional republic like America, the integrity of the electoral process is paramount. However, when political rhetoric is stripped of moral underpinnings, it becomes easier for unscrupulous actors to twist narratives to serve their own agendas. Misinformation proliferates, and citizens become targets for propaganda that preys on their fears and biases. This manipulation not only jeopardizes the electoral process, but it also erodes public trust in institutions, which is the bedrock of any free and open society.
Story Continues Below
To watch author and biblical historian W. Kent Smith discuss the contents of his book On Earth as It is On Heaven, at the Sacred Word Revealed Conference ’23, hosted by Zen Garcia, CLICK BELOW.
Story Continues From Above
Is it any wonder, then, that disillusionment and cynicism are natural extensions of a self-interested, self-centered culture? When citizens perceive that their leaders are acting without ethical consideration, they lose faith in the system. A society thrives when its citizens engage and believe in the efficacy of their participation. However, a continuous cycle of disappointment, driven by corruption and manipulation, just fuels an already cynical populace. This disillusionment further disengages individuals from political processes, leading to lower voter turnout and a general sense of disenfranchisement.
Additionally, the moral decay resulting from the absence of biblical principles is palpable in contemporary culture. Ethical frameworks traditionally rooted in religious teachings are in danger of being replaced by relativism, where the concept of right and wrong becomes subject to individual whims. This moral ambiguity leads to a society where the shared values that once unified citizens are abandoned, paving the way for behaviors that contribute to cultural decay. The breakdown of these communal values manifests in increased crime rates, substance abuse, and deterioration of social relationships, all of which erode the fabric of civil society.
This is why the role of biblical principles in American governance is so significant, as it intertwines the foundational values that have shaped the nation’s identity and its approach to justice, integrity, and individual dignity. A hopeful examination of this relationship reveals that these principles serve as a moral compass, guiding political discourse and fostering a framework where justice and the inherent value of human life can flourish.
At the heart of American governance is the value of justice, a principle often echoed throughout The Bible. The concept of justice isn’t just a legal institution; it’s also a divine command, urging people to act fairly and protect the rights of everyone. Texts like Zechariah 7:9 tell us: “This is what the Lord of Hosts says: ‘Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another,’” reminding leaders that justice should be pursued with both righteousness and compassion. This biblical foundation encourages lawmakers to strive for equitable systems that reflect both moral integrity and societal well-being, ensuring that every citizen is treated with fairness.
Integrity, another cornerstone of effective governance, is emphasized in numerous biblical passages. Proverbs 11:3 asserts, “The integrity of the upright guides them,” encapsulating the importance of honesty and ethical conduct in leadership. In a political arena often marred by scandals and deception, these principles call upon public officials to pursue transparency and accountability, nurturing trust within communities. By upholding integrity, leaders reinforce a culture where truth prevails and corruption is challenged, thus enhancing the relationship between citizens and their government.
