Stereotyped

As I understand it, one of the great fears of actors or actresses is to be so stereotyped in a particular role or in limited types of roles that they are seen as not being able to play anything else. Therefore, they have real trouble finding work. I am afraid that evangelical Christians are in danger of being cast solely in a particular role: that of political reformers. Now I do not want to deny that a Christian has an obligation to work for justice in the political realm (Deuteronomy 16:18-20; Psalms 82:1-4; Proverbs 14:34; 16:12; 29:4). But are we, perhaps, confusing an aspect of the Christian life with the main focus.

I believe one reason we tend to be out of focus in this area is because of a common misconception. It is thought that the departure of the United States from Christian values is superficial, the result of a few politicians and media moguls, and if we can just pass a few key laws we will return to those values. I am very cynical of this. While there were undoubtedly a few individuals who led this nation in its departure from traditional values, had they met a firm wall of determined Christian conviction, they would have been entirely unsuccessful. What they did meet, by and large, was a sand castle of superficial Christian adherence that was easily knocked over. I am convinced that any large-scale, national return to Judaeo-Christian principles must involve a change of heart by citizens in general. That does not mean that those working in the political arena should lay down their tools. But they should be prepared for a long and laborious struggle, which needs to be conducted with patience, firmness, and love.