Overcoming Political Polarization: Reformed and Anglican Confessional Wisdom for Christians
This is not hard
In a politically polarized world, it’s easy for Christians to be drawn into the ideological divides that characterize modern American culture. Evangelicalism is a movement that, unfortunately, can trap people in underdeveloped ways of thinking on issues at the intersection of faith and culture due to its lack of consistent, consensus-based principles that can help mature believers’ thinking. In contrast, Presbyterian, Anglican, and Dutch Reformed Christians have a significant advantage, with nearly 500 years of teaching to guide and protect them from the political polarization that, like a cancer, has corrupted much of the culture in local American churches.
The Westminster Confession of Faith, the Three Forms of Unity (the Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, and Canons of Dort), and the Anglican Book of Common Prayer offer insights into God’s sovereignty, Christian liberty, and the ultimate purpose of life—reminding believers to prioritize their faith over political affiliations. This post examines how these historic confessions offer guidance for Christians to navigate political engagement while staying grounded in their faith and calling.
Westminster Confession of Faith
The Westminster Confession of Faith offers several principles that can help Christians avoid being drawn into political polarization, particularly in America. Its teachings on God's sovereignty, Christian liberty, the role of civil government, and the ultimate purpose of life provide guidance for believers navigating divisive times. Here are some key points from the Confession that can help Christians maintain a balanced perspective:
1. God's Sovereignty and Providence (Chapters 2 and 5)
The Westminster Confession emphasizes that God is sovereign over all things, including nations and rulers. This means that no political system, party, or ideology is ultimate—God is. The Confession reminds Christians that God’s providence governs all events, big and small:
"God, the great Creator of all things, doth uphold, direct, dispose, and govern all creatures, actions, and things, from the greatest even to the least, by his most wise and holy providence..." (WCF 5.1)
This can help Christians avoid being overly attached to any particular political outcome, trusting that God’s will ultimately prevails.
2. The Role of Civil Government (Chapter 23)
The Confession clearly affirms the legitimacy of civil government, while also outlining its limits. It states that government is ordained by God for the common good:
"God, the supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates to be, under Him, over the people, for His own glory, and the public good..." (WCF 23.1)
While Christians are called to respect and obey civil authorities, the Confession also reminds believers that their ultimate allegiance is to God, not to any political party or government:
"It is the duty of people to pray for magistrates, to honor their persons, to pay them tribute and other dues, to obey their lawful commands, and to be subject to their authority, for conscience' sake..." (WCF 23.4)
This can help Christians navigate political tensions with humility, knowing that civil governments are temporary instruments under God’s rule.
3. Christian Liberty and the Conscience (Chapter 20)
The Confession upholds the doctrine of Christian liberty, teaching that believers are freed in Christ from bondage to human traditions or systems that bind the conscience. It states:
"God alone is Lord of the conscience, and hath left it free from the doctrines and commandments of men which are, in anything, contrary to his Word, or beside it, in matters of faith or worship." (WCF 20.2)
This can guard against Christians being manipulated by political ideologies or parties that demand ultimate loyalty or compromise moral convictions. Instead, they can engage politically in ways that honor their freedom in Christ and uphold biblical principles.
4. The Kingdom of God and Eternal Perspective (Chapter 33)
The Confession closes with a strong reminder of the ultimate goal of the Christian life: the coming of Christ’s eternal kingdom. The last chapter on the Last Judgment encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective:
"As Christ would have us to be certainly persuaded that there shall be a day of judgment, both to deter all men from sin; and for the greater consolation of the godly in their adversity..." (WCF 33.3)
This eternal focus helps Christians see beyond the immediate political conflicts and reminds them of their ultimate hope. Political polarization often stems from putting ultimate trust in earthly solutions, but the Confession calls Christians to fix their eyes on Christ’s coming reign.
5. Unity in Christ (Chapter 25)
The Confession also emphasizes the unity of the Church, stating:
"The catholic or universal church, which is invisible, consists of the whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the head thereof..." (WCF 25.1)
This encourages Christians to remember that their deepest identity is in Christ and that their primary community is the Church, which transcends earthly divisions. Rather than getting divided by political lines, Christians are called to seek unity in Christ and His mission.
Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, and Canons of Dort
The Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, and Canons of Dort, together known as the Three Forms of Unity, offer theological insights that can help Christians avoid getting drawn into political polarization in America. These Reformed confessions emphasize the sovereignty of God, Christian unity, humility, and the calling of believers to live as witnesses in a divided world—all of which can guide Christians through the current political landscape.
1. God’s Sovereignty and Trust in His Plan (Belgic Confession)
The Belgic Confession emphasizes the absolute sovereignty of God over all things, including governments and nations:
"We believe that our good God, after creating all things, did not abandon them to chance or fortune but leads and governs them according to his holy will..." (Article 13)
In a polarized political climate, it is easy for Christians to feel anxious or fearful about the direction of their country. The Belgic Confession reminds believers that God is sovereign over all earthly powers, and that His plan is unfolding regardless of political outcomes. This encourages Christians to trust in God’s governance rather than becoming overly attached to political ideologies or leaders, helping them avoid divisiveness.
2. The Christian’s Role in Society and Submission to Authorities (Belgic Confession)
The Belgic Confession also teaches about the Christian’s responsibility to honor and submit to governing authorities, while recognizing that their ultimate allegiance is to God:
"We believe that because of the depravity of the human race, our good God has ordained kings, princes, and civil officers. God wants the world to be governed by laws and policies..." (Article 36)
While Christians are called to participate in civic life, this confession urges them to do so with a spirit of humility and submission to God’s will. Political leaders and governments are not ultimate; they are instruments of God’s common grace. This perspective can help believers engage in politics without idolizing leaders or policies, thus avoiding the polarization that comes from overly identifying with political parties.
3. Unity in Christ and Neighborly Love (Heidelberg Catechism)
The Heidelberg Catechism stresses the unity of believers in Christ and the call to love one’s neighbor, as grounded in the Ten Commandments and summarized in the commandment to love God and love others:
"What is God's will for you in the second commandment?"
"That we love our neighbors as ourselves and do all we can to help them." (Q&A 107)
In polarized times, Christians can be tempted to see those with differing political views as enemies. The Heidelberg Catechism’s call to love one’s neighbor, regardless of differences, can help Christians transcend political divisions. This love should be extended to all people, including those with opposing viewpoints, fostering dialogue and understanding rather than hostility.
4. Humility and Awareness of Human Sinfulness (Heidelberg Catechism)
The Heidelberg Catechism consistently reminds believers of their sinfulness and need for grace:
"What is your only comfort in life and in death?"
"That I am not my own, but belong—body and soul, in life and in death—to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ..." (Q&A 1)
Insight for political polarization: This deep awareness of human sinfulness and dependence on Christ should encourage humility in political engagement. Recognizing that all humans, including ourselves, are flawed and prone to error can reduce self-righteousness in political discourse. It reminds Christians that their identity and worth are in Christ, not in political victories, which helps prevent divisive behavior.
5. God’s Grace, Election, and Assurance in Salvation (Canons of Dort)
The Canons of Dort emphasize God’s sovereign election and the assurance believers have in Christ’s salvation:
"That some receive the gift of faith from God, and others do not receive it, proceeds from God’s eternal decree...it has been mercifully granted to the elect." (First Head of Doctrine, Article 6)
Understanding that salvation is by grace alone, not by human effort or affiliation, shifts focus away from political success as a measure of moral or spiritual worth. The Canons of Dort remind Christians that their security is in God’s electing grace, not in societal or political outcomes. This gives believers a deeper confidence in God’s ultimate plan, reducing the anxiety and fear that often fuel political polarization.
6. The Call to Persevere and Reflect God’s Glory (Canons of Dort)
The Canons of Dort also call believers to perseverance and to live for God’s glory in all circumstances:
"This assurance of perseverance...leads them to a more careful and continual practice of gratitude according to the measure of grace obtained, and to things that lead to the glory of God." (Fifth Head of Doctrine, Article 12)
In times of division, Christians are reminded to live with gratitude and focus on glorifying God in their conduct. This perseverance in faith, even in politically charged environments, keeps their hearts aligned with Christ and not with worldly ideologies.
Anglican Book of Common Prayer (BCP)
The Anglican Book of Common Prayer (BCP), particularly in its prayers, liturgies, and teachings, offers profound guidance for Christians to avoid the pitfalls of political polarization. The BCP emphasizes unity in Christ, humility, and prayer for leaders, all of which can help believers navigate the divisiveness of political life while maintaining a focus on the kingdom of God.
1. Unity in Christ Over Political Allegiances
One of the central themes in the BCP is the unity of the Church as the body of Christ. The prayers and liturgies regularly affirm the oneness of the Church, regardless of worldly divisions. For example, in the Prayer for the Unity of the Church, the BCP says:
"O God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only Savior, the Prince of Peace: Give us grace seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy divisions; take away all hatred and prejudice, and whatsoever else may hinder us from godly union and concord..."
This prayer highlights the importance of overcoming divisions that may arise from political ideologies. It calls believers to prioritize unity in Christ over any earthly allegiance. For Christians in America, this can serve as a reminder that political differences should not divide the body of Christ, and that maintaining unity in faith is more important than political victories.
2. Humility and Repentance in Prayer
The General Confession in the BCP, which is recited during services of Holy Communion, emphasizes the need for humility and repentance before God:
"We have erred and strayed from thy ways like lost sheep, we have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts... Have mercy upon us, miserable offenders."
This prayer reminds Christians of their own sinfulness and their tendency to "follow the desires of their own hearts," which can include political ideologies or tribalism. The regular practice of confession fosters humility and the recognition that no political party or agenda is free from human sin. This awareness can temper the tendency toward self-righteousness and the demonization of those with differing political views.
3. Prayer for Government Leaders
The BCP includes Prayers for Civil Authorities, encouraging believers to pray for those in positions of power, regardless of political affiliation:
"O Lord our Governor, whose glory is in all the world: We commend this nation to thy merciful care, that being guided by thy Providence, we may dwell secure in thy peace. Grant to the President of the United States, and to all in authority, wisdom and strength to know and to do thy will. Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness, and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this people in thy fear..."
The BCP reminds Christians to pray for their leaders, regardless of their political stance. This practice encourages a posture of humility and trust in God’s providence, rather than blind allegiance to or rejection of particular leaders. Praying for leaders also helps soften the heart toward those who might be seen as political opponents and fosters a spirit of unity and peace.
4. The Call to Love and Serve All People
The Prayer for All Sorts and Conditions of Men emphasizes the universal call to love and serve others, regardless of differences:
"O God, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind, we humbly beseech thee for all sorts and conditions of men; that thou wouldest be pleased to make thy ways known unto them, thy saving health unto all nations."
In an age of political division, this prayer encourages Christians to love and serve all people, including those who differ in political opinions. It asks for God's blessings and guidance for all humanity, transcending political lines. This mindset helps prevent Christians from viewing politics as a battleground of enemies and instead fosters a focus on serving the common good with love.
5. Focus on the Kingdom of God
Throughout the BCP, the liturgies direct believers to seek first the kingdom of God rather than earthly power or success. In the Lord’s Prayer, which is central to Christian worship, believers are reminded:
"Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
By regularly reciting the Lord’s Prayer, Christians are reminded that their ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not to earthly political systems. This helps them maintain a clear perspective, knowing that no political party or ideology can bring about the full realization of God's will. Instead of being consumed by political battles, Christians are called to live out their faith by embodying the values of God’s kingdom—justice, mercy, and humility—within a broken world.
Conclusion
As Christians engage in the political sphere, the confessions of the Reformed and Anglican traditions provide a grounding framework that helps avoid the pitfalls of polarization and political idolatry. The Westminster Confession of Faith reminds us of God's sovereignty over all earthly authorities and the importance of keeping our eyes on Christ’s kingdom. The Three Forms of Unity emphasize the importance of Christian unity, humility, and the need to trust in God’s ultimate plan rather than earthly political success. The Book of Common Prayer focuses on unity in Christ, love for all people, and the importance of prayer for leaders and those with differing views. Together, these confessions call Christians to live faithfully in a politically divided world, not as partisans but as witnesses to the kingdom of God—seeking justice, mercy, and humility as they engage in society. By grounding themselves in these rich theological truths, Christians can participate in politics without being consumed by polarization, maintaining a focus on the eternal reign of Christ.
In other words, folks, just rely on your creeds and confessions. This is not difficult. It’s certainly not the first time in the history of the Christian tradition that believers have had to navigate the temptation of placing their faith and trust in politics. Non-denominational churches have to start from scratch, whereas denominational churches already have a rich foundation to build upon!