Should a Christian-Israelite Vote?

by HOIM Staff

The world is a complicated place with many types of problems. In the world's so-called democracies, politicians campaign to persuade us to vote for them so that they can help solve these problems. Around the world, election issues and problems usually include matters like the economy, environment, crime, international leadership, defense -- and a host of social concerns. Community leaders with different ideas wish to persuade us that their group's choice is the one that will be best for the country.

Many of these leaders bring religion into the campaign.

Should Christians vote? The Bible teaches that Christians should follow the Messiah's example (Philippians 2:5). So if the Messiah was an American citizen, would he vote? In countries with parliamentary systems, would he vote for a certain party to get a particular prime minister?

In the USA, some seem to think that the Messiah would vote for members of the Democratic party, because Democrats are perceived by some to be more compassionate than Republicans. Others feel certain that the Messiah would vote for Republicans because Republicans are perceived by some to be more "pro-life" (anti-abortion) than Democrats. Some others, noting hypocrisy in both major parties, feel that the Messiah would vote for the candidates offered by the smaller political parties due to their personalities or views on different subjects.

Democracy is Not New

Democracy was known before the time of the Messiah. In ancient Greece, all the male citizens were expected to vote on the issues facing their society. The Greeks introduced the concept of democracy to the Romans. The Romans (who were somewhat skeptical of the Greek model) set up a modified form of democracy called a republic. In a republic, elected representatives are supposed to vote for their interpretation of the will of the people. The United States, other "democracies" of the world (with Switzerland as perhaps the most notable exception as it is more patterned after the Greek model) -- and even many churches -- are patterned after the Roman model.

Most people in western societies seem to feel that some form of democracy is the best form of government. Would YEHOVAH God agree? The Bible warns us, "there is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death" (Proverbs 16:25). It also warns us, "It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps" (Jeremiah 10:23).

In Genesis 2:17 YEHOVAH God warned Adam and Eve to not partake of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. But Adam and Eve did not listen to YEHOVAH God. After listening to Satan, they decided that they did not need to listen to YEHOVAH but that they should decide for themselves (Genesis 3:1-6). This is the first recorded act of human democracy in action.

Nowhere in the entire Bible do we see YEHOVAH God sanctioning democracy!

The Bible shows that YEHOVAH God appointed His leaders and made them known to His people. From Enoch to Noah to Moses to David to the Prophets to the Messiah and even to the Apostles, we read nothing about YEHOVAH God encouraging democracy. Actually -- according to the Bible -- democracy is condemned. When Samuel was YEHOVAH's appointed leader/judge, the majority of the people of Israel wanted a king like the rest of the nations around them. Even though there appeared to have been legitimate criticisms of Samuel's leadership, YEHOVAH God told Samuel that the people had rejected God and not Samuel (I Samuel 8:1-9). The Bible says it was evil in the sight of YEHOVAH God for the people to ask to have a government like the other nations around them (I Samuel 12:17).

The Bible teaches that YEHOVAH God sets up as leaders whomever He wants (Daniel 4:17).

The Bible records incidences of religious leaders who felt that they were as good as the ones that YEHOVAH God appointed -- but YEHOVAH had other ideas. For example, Korah (who was a religious leader and a Levite) was apparently in favor of voting and a republican form of government (which is what, the United States, for example, claims to have). After assembling 250 supporters (who were community leaders/representatives) he said to Moses and Aaron:

"You take too much upon yourselves, for all the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?" (Numbers 16:3).

YEHOVAH God clearly did not agree with Korah's assessment and YEHOVAH decreed death to Korah and his followers (Numbers 16:32). When some of the people thought that YEHOVAH's punishment was excessive, YEHOVAH also severely punished them (Numbers 16:49). Thus, YEHOVAH God did not sanction voting in a republican form of government.

The New Testament Does Not Sanction Democracy

If democracy was to be sanctioned in the Bible for Christians, most certainly it would be sanctioned in the New Testament. Greek and Roman ways were widely known. In the New Testament Paul writes that YEHOVAH God first appoints apostles, secondarily prophets, etc. for the edifying the body of the Messiah (the Ecclesia) (Ephesians 4:11,12).

When Judas needed to be replaced (after his betrayal of the Messiah and his suicide), the apostles did not have an election -- they followed the Biblical example of seeking YEHOVAH's will:

"You, O LORD, who know hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen...And they cast their lots." (Acts 1:24,26).

Notice that the apostles did not decide that they were qualified to see into a person's heart.

Some have written that various forms of democracy are now acceptable because they believe certain scriptures in the book of Acts imply it. The primary verses appear to be in the story of Acts 15. In Acts 15 many of the apostles and elders met together to discuss circumcision. A multitude of counselors was used to discuss the matter. Some feel that using counsel is indicative of democracy. However, the fact that a multitude of counselors was used does not change YEHOVAH's form of government. In the Old Testament we read that not only has YEHOVAH God always encouraged this practice (Proverbs 11:14), we also read that YEHOVAH God himself engaged in it (2 Chronicles 18;18-21); thus the fact that some of the Ecclesia leadership followed this practice only shows that YEHOVAH's governmental practices from the Old Testament were to be continued.

It is interesting to note something else mentioned in the Book of Acts:

"And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it -- lest you even be found to fight against God" (Acts 5:38-39)

Those of Israel who vote in worldly elections apparently believe they know all aspects of the plan of YEHOVAH God, however there is no human way they could know. Yet, look at what YEHOVAH said to Samuel, one clearly called and appointed by YEHOVAH God, when Samuel thought he knew who should be the next king over Israel:

"So it was, when they came, that he looked at Eliab and said, 'Surely the LORD's anointed is before Him.' But the LORD said to Samuel, 'Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart'" (1 Samuel 16:6-7).

It is also interesting to realize that many who believe that the New Testament sanctions democracy, also believe that YEHOVAH God's future ruling government (in the Kingdom of YEHOVAH God) will NOT be a democracy!

The Messiah told the apostles that they would be rulers over the twelve tribes of Israel in his Father's kingdom (Luke 22:30). The Messiah chose the disciples -- they did not get their positions from any form of democracy (John 15:16; 6:70). YEHOVAH God -- not man -- chose David to be king over Israel originally (Acts 13:22) and has also chosen him to be king over all Israel (under the Messiah) in the world ahead (Jeremiah 30:9).

By the way, the Messiah said that YEHOVAH God the Father has reserved who will have certain positions of authority in the kingdom of YEHOVAH God (Matthew 20:23). The rewards in the kingdom will be the Messiah's to give on behalf of YEHOVAH God (Revelation 22:12); they will not be for the people to take for themselves.

Democracy will not be YEHOVAH God's form of government in His kingdom. Why? Because one of the many problems of voting is that no human thinks the way YEHOVAH God does.

"'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways', says the LORD" (Isaiah 55:8).

The Life of a Democracy

It has been said that "eventually, all democracies commit suicide." Since history bears this out, what is the average lifespan of a democratic society? How long will it typically last before forces within it topple or implode it? What are the limits beyond which it cannot survive? What forces threaten it? Notice what Alexander Tyler, in his 1770 book, Cycle of Democracy, has to say:

"A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover they can vote themselves largesse from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates promising them the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that a democracy always collapses over a [lousy] fiscal responsibility, always followed by a dictatorship. The average of the world's great civilizations before they decline has been 200 years. These nations have progressed in this sequence: From (1) bondage to spiritual faith; from (2) spiritual faith to great courage; from (3) courage to liberty; from (4) liberty to abundance; from (5) abundance to selfishness; from (6) selfishness to complacency; from (7) complacency to apathy; from (8) apathy to dependency; from (9) dependency back again to bondage."

James Madison agrees with Alexander Tyler:

"Is there no virtue among us? If there be not, we are in a wretched situation. No theoretical checks -- no form of government can render us secure. To suppose that any form of government will secure liberty or happiness without virtue in the people is a chimerical [an illusion or fabrication of the mind] idea. Democracies have always been spectacles of turbulence and contention and as short in their lives as they have been violent in their deaths.”

What Did the Messiah Say?

When the Messiah was on Earth he proclaimed the gospel of the kingdom of YEHOVAH God and told YEHOVAH's people Israel to repent (Mark 1:14-15). The Messiah refused to participate in even the most elementary governmental decisions while he was on the earth (Luke 12:13-14).

Although Yeshua taught that we were to pay taxes (Matthew 22:17-21), he also taught that his kingdom was not of this world (John 18:36). The Messiah taught his disciples to go into the world of Israel and preach the gospel to everyone of Israel (Matthew 28:19, 20). The Messiah said that his disciples were to be in the world -- but not of it (John 17:16).

The apostle Peter clearly understood this. He wrote that being part of YEHOVAH's people made one part of a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9). The apostle Paul wrote that this present world was evil (Galatians 1:4). The Bible warns of the consequences of being part of the world's systems and its governments -- and tells us to come out of it and to be separate (Revelation 18:2-5).

Look at what the Bible teaches will happen in the Last Days, and what Christian-Israelites are to do about it,

"But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

Note that YEHOVAH God's Word does not encourage voting as the solution.

Ambassadors for the Messiah

Paul said that Christian-Israelites are to be ambassadors for the Messiah (2 Corinthians 5:20). What is an ambassador? Merriam-Webster has the following definition:

1: an official envoy; especially: a diplomatic agent of the highest rank accredited to a foreign government or sovereign as the resident representative of his or her own government or sovereign or appointed for a special and often temporary diplomatic assignment. 2a: an authorized representative or messenger.

Ambassadorships are critical appointments, only conferred on those who can properly represent the ideals, laws, people, culture, government policies and political ideologies and interests of the country where the ambassador holds citizenship. They must also possess good judgment. If an ambassador fails to uphold all these standards, he can disqualify himself from representing his country -- and be recalled from his post!

If you are a real Christian, you are an authorized, official envoy, for Yeshua the Messiah!

Ambassadors often live in alien nations, some of which are clearly hostile to their beliefs. Ambassadors, though they live in other societies, do not involve themselves in the politics of the societies that they live in. There is a time for YEHOVAH's people to take over the governments of this world -- but it is not yet (John 18:36, Daniel 7:17-18). It will be after the future coming of YEHOVAH God and the Messiah (2 Thessalonians 4:16, Revelation 11:15).

As ambassadors for YEHOVAH God's future government, Christian-Israelites must exemplify YEHOVAH's way -- His "holy nation” (I Peter 2:9). They are to represent the peace, order, love and abundant joy inherent in the spiritual government to which they owe their true allegiance. They are -- in the Messiah’s words -- to be lights to the world (Matthew 5:14-16). And the “Father of lights” (James. 1:17) will not permit His children (Galatians 3:26) to hide their good examples “under a bushel.”

In the truest sense, real Christians have been “set on a hill” for all to see, just as a light pierces the surrounding darkness so that people can see where to go.

To Christian-Israelites, Peter wrote:

"But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

"Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul. Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation. Honor Authority. Submit yourselves for the LORD's sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men" (1 Peter 2:9-15, NASB).

Aliens and strangers in a land do not vote.

Now the Bible does mention one particular vote by the Apostle Paul (while he was still Saul and thus unconverted). Notice what he later said about it:

"Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. This I also did in Jerusalem, and many of the saints I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them" (Acts 26:9-10).

And while the above quote is not of itself a blanket condemnation of all voting, it is the only time the word "vote" or "voting" is found in the Bible. And it does show that even religiously zealous/conservative/liberal individuals do not always vote correctly and can do many things contrary to the name of Yeshua of Nazareth.

Whose World is it Now?

Satan holds sway over all governments and nations. But is his own government, led by him and his demons -- and ruling over human governments -- unified? Is the devil himself divided? Allow the Messiah to answer these questions.

Yeshua the Messiah and his disciples often had to cast out demons. They are not pleasant to witness, and those who do are often shocked by what they see. It becomes obvious that great power is present -- both in the demon being cast out and in the greater power of YEHOVAH God necessary to cast one out. The Messiah’s accusers saw clear evidence that he was backed by real power! However, in Matthew 12:24-26, they accused him of using the power of Satan to cast out demons.

Here is the Messiah’s response: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: and if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?” (verse 25). The Messiah was saying that Satan would never cast out demons -- they are his! To do so would divide his own kingdom. The devil does have a kingdom. Since his kingdom does stand, it is clearly not divided! And it transcends the entire world!

Recall Revelation 12:9. It referred to Satan and “his” demons. This clearly means that they are his -- they belong to him -- he controls them.

Here is the point. Not only does Satan govern the kingdoms of this world, through his power and influence, but he also does it in an undivided, unified fashion with the aid of hundreds of millions (Revelation 5:11;12:4) of demons.

Further, Ephesians 6:12 explains how Christian-Israelites wrestle “against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against wicked spirits [the proper translation] in high places.” It becomes obvious that these “high places” are within the governments or principalities of this world!

Now for an incredible account that illustrates and explains the terms “rulers” and “high places.” An actual spirit war -- lasting three weeks -- is described in Daniel 10! Michael, an archangel, fought with one called the “prince of the kingdom of Persia,” and referred to another upcoming battle with an arch-demon called the “prince of Grecia.” Archangels -- or any angels -- do not need 21 days to defeat puny, little, physical men. The “princes” that Michael was battling were powerful fallen spirits that ruled nations within Satan’s governmental structure.

This is not YEHOVAH God’s world! It should now be evident that the devil governs a vast realm of fallen spirits. Together they deceive, confuse and exert far-reaching influence over all the governments and activities on Earth, including the many religions of men. Understand. These governments cannot be fixed or improved. They must be REMOVED -- by YEHOVAH God!

Various people claim that it is the duty of Christian-Israelites to vote.

Most who profess the Messiah do not believe that the Kingdom of YEHOVAH God is the answer for what is facing their nation or the world. Although the Bible says Christians are to "walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7), they reason that YEHOVAH God would want them to do something YEHOVAH does not command.

Consider also the following scriptures:

"But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age [Satan] has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them" (2 Corinthians 4:3-4).

The gospel is hidden from those of Israel who involve themselves in Satan’s political world. How? They are submitting to Satan's authority -- not YEHOVAH God’s. They fail to take the following seriously enough:

"Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth" (Colossians 3:2).

The Bible also teaches that the "serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan...deceives the whole world" (Revelation 12:9).

The solution to the world's ills is the return of YEHOVAH God and His Messiah and the establishment of the Kingdom of YEHOVAH God -- not political leaders. When people get wrapped up in the world’s politics and governments, they are submitting to Satan’s idea of how to run things apart from YEHOVAH God. Many seem to place more hope in elections than the Kingdom of YEHOVAH God!

What is a Christian-Israelite to Do?

Notice what Yeshua prayed:

"I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth" (John 17:14-17).

True Christians are in the world, not of it. This age is Satan's according to the Bible. The biblical truth is that Christian-Israelites are not to be partakers of Satan's worldly system.

Even Some Roman Catholics Understand Some of the Problems in Democracies

Zenit.org, a Vatican-supporting news source, reported the following given by a Roman Catholic priest named Michael Hull:

"Democracy" is difficult to define, and its foundations are difficult to articulate, because the word is used in many and diverse ways, especially by special-interest groups including political parties, the media, and governments.

"At its root, democracy means 'rule by the people' (Greek: democratia)...

"Without the recognition of the primacy of natural law, democracies are condemned to little more than tyranny of the majority, not to mention a plethora of social and moral evils.

"The single, clearest example of such evil is found with respect to every human being's right to life. Recall for a moment those millions upon millions of babies legally murdered in their mothers' wombs in so-called democracies like the United States and most European countries...

"But we know for sure that something better is coming along at the end of time: the reign of Christ the King" ("The Foundations of Democracy According to Theologian Father Michael Hull." Zenit.org September 1, 2006 Code: ZE06090135).

While we in Hope of Israel Ministries would have tended to use the term YEHOVAH's law instead of natural law, in general we agree that rule by the majority can lead to tyranny as well as to many social and moral evils. We also agree that YEHOVAH God and the Messiah will reign -- and that form of governance is much better than democracy!

Doug Casey Gives Secular Reasons

International author Doug Casey gave his reasoning about voting:

"5 Reasons Not to Vote

"March 29, 2019

"Democracy is vastly overrated....

"Most of the founders of America were more concerned with liberty than democracy. Tocqueville saw democracy and liberty as almost polar opposites.

"Democracy can work when everyone concerned knows one another, shares the same values and goals, and abhors any form of coercion. It is the natural way of accomplishing things among small groups.

"But once belief in democracy becomes a political ideology, it's necessarily transformed into majority rule. And, at that point, the majority (or even a plurality, a minority, or an individual) can enforce their will on everyone else by claiming to represent the will of the people....

"At least 95% of incumbents in Congress typically retain office. That is a higher proportion than in the Supreme Soviet of the defunct USSR, and a lower turnover rate than in Britain's hereditary House of Lords where people lose their seats only by dying.

"The political system in the United States has, like all systems which grow old and large, become moribund and corrupt.

"The conventional wisdom holds that a decline in voter turnout is a sign of apathy. But it may also be a sign of a renaissance in personal responsibility. It could be people saying, 'I won't be fooled again, and I won't lend power to them.'�

"The first step in solving the problem is to stop actively encouraging it. Many Americans have intuitively recognized that government is the problem and have stopped voting. There are at least five reasons many people do not vote:

* Voting in a political election is unethical. The political process is one of institutionalized coercion and force. If you disapprove of those things, then you shouldn't participate in them, even indirectly.

* Voting compromises your privacy. It gets your name in another government computer database.

* Voting, as well as registering, entails hanging around government offices and dealing with petty bureaucrats. Most people can find something more enjoyable or productive to do with their time. Voting encourages politicians.

* A vote against one candidate ”a major, and quite understandable, reason why many people vote” is always interpreted as a vote for his opponent. And even though you may be voting for the lesser of two evils -- the lesser of two evils is still evil. It amounts to giving the candidate a tacit mandate to impose his will on society.

* Your vote doesn't count. Politicians like to say it counts because it is to their advantage to get everyone into a busybody mode. But, statistically, one vote in scores of millions makes no more difference than a single grain of sand on a beach. That's entirely apart from the fact that officials manifestly do what they want -- not what you want -- once they are in office.

"Some of these thoughts may impress you as vaguely unpatriotic�; that is certainly not my intention. But, unfortunately, America isn't the place it once was, either. The United States has evolved from the land of the free and the home of the brave to something more closely resembling the land of entitlements and the home of 'snowflakes' and whining lawsuit filers. The founding ideas of the country, which were highly libertarian, have been thoroughly distorted. What passes for tradition today is something against which the Founding Fathers would have led a second revolution.

"It is true that the USA is not like what its founding fathers envisioned. Actually, they tried to prevent a lot of what it has become."

"Why Voting for Donald Trump Is a Morally Good Choice"

Various people claimed that Hillary Clinton was so bad that Christians needed to vote for Donald Trump. Someone sent us a link to one such view written by Wayne Grudem titled Why Voting for Donald Trump Is a Morally Good Choice:

"July 28, 2016

"Some of my Christian friends tell me they can’t in good conscience vote for Donald Trump because, when faced with a choice between 'the lesser of two evils,' the morally right thing is to choose neither one. They recommend voting for a third-party or write-in candidate.

"As a professor who has taught Christian ethics for 39 years, I think their analysis is incorrect. Now that Trump has won the GOP nomination, I think voting for Trump is a morally good choice.

"American citizens need patience with each other in this difficult political season...

"I did not support Trump in the primary season. I even spoke against him at a pastors’ conference in February. But now I plan to vote for him. I do not think it is right to call him an 'evil candidate.' I think rather he is a good candidate with flaws...

"He is egotistical, bombastic, and brash. He often lacks nuance in his statements. Sometimes he blurts out mistaken ideas (such as bombing the families of terrorists) that he later must abandon. He insults people. He can be vindictive when people attack him. He has been slow to disown and rebuke the wrongful words and actions of some angry fringe supporters. He has been married three times and claims to have been unfaithful in his marriages...

"Should Christians even try to influence elections at all? Yes, definitely. The apostle Peter says Christians are 'exiles' on this earth (1 Peter 1:1). Therefore I take seriously the prophet Jeremiah’s exhortation to the Jewish people living in exile in Babylon:

'Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare' (Jeremiah 29:7).

"By way of modern application, I think Christians today have a similar obligation to vote in such a way that will 'seek the welfare' of the United States...

"Some may feel it is easier just to stay away from this messy Trump-Clinton election, and perhaps not even vote. But the teachings of Scripture do not allow us to escape moral responsibility by saying that we decided to do nothing. The prophet Obadiah rebuked the people of Edom for standing by and doing nothing to help when the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem: 'On the day that you stood aloof, on the day that...foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, and you were like one of them.'” (Obadiah 1:11).

Let’s actually examine what the two scriptures Wayne Grudem quoted are teaching:

Jeremiah 29:7 is not a command to vote. Jeremiah 29:7 says to seek the welfare of the nation and pray. It does not say to get involved in worldly politics, but the command is to pray to the LORD on its behalf. That verse most definitely does not say to seek the welfare of the city by doing something like voting.

And what about Obadiah? That was also not a discussion about voting. Praying, such as is mentioned in Jeremiah 29:7 and also commanded in 1 Timothy 1:2-3, is certainly not “standing aloof.” Praying, not voting, is the morally good choice for Christian-Israelites. Voting for either of the candidates was NOT the "morally good choice."

2020 Looks Bad

Various politicians have announced their intentions to run for the office of the President of the United States in 2020. Politico ran an article about the "sorry state" of various candidates. Some candidates have felt the need to apologize for previous statements in support of Biblical marriage -- and the need to endorse items of the LGBTQ agenda. Many also support abortion and other anti-biblical actions. Are these "American values"? Should the English language be changed to eliminate male/female and singular pronouns? Does the Bible warn about female leaders? Does the Bible warn about leaders that lead people to err? What about condoning sexual immortality? Do the presidential contenders fit prophecies warned about in 2 Timothy 3:1-5?

The 2020 presidential election will feature people who are against many aspects of Biblical morality.

Politicians Not the Answer, the Return of YEHOVAH God and the Messiah Is

Notice a secular view related to the 2012 USA presidential election, as it has some ideas to ponder related to the 2016 campaign as well:

"When confronted with the false dilemma of the democratic political process, many individuals settle for the 'less of two evils' as a kind of compromise. But one suspects (or hopes) they do so with a certain degree of moral discomfort. Ask a disciple of the Elephant Party, for example, if he agrees with the murderous drone attacks this moment underway in Pakistan and you will likely offend a delicate delusion of 'Democrats for Peace.' Similarly, press any Donkey Party advocate on the issue of economic freedom and watch them squirm under close scrutiny of their own candidate’s position vis-à-vis the IRS, the Federal Reserve, the indigestible, 75,000-page tax code, etc., etc., etc.,...

"Contrary to the popular snipe that 'only those who vote have the right to complain,' common sense leads us to quite the opposite conclusion. It is only those who have not aggressed against others who have the right to complain when they are aggressed against. Those who, to invert a phrase, 'feed the mouth that bites them,' may stand firmly, but do so on shaky ground.

"A vote for either evil is nonetheless a vote for evil" (Daily Reckoning, October 19, 2012).

It is interesting to see a secular source coming to similar conclusions regarding the "democratic system" and the US presidential election.

Of course, many professing Christians believe that they need to vote even though that concept is not endorsed in the Bible. But notice two concepts that are endorsed:

"Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil" (Isaiah 5:20).

"You shall not follow a crowd to do evil" (Exodus 23:2).

The “lesser of two evils” is still not good.

Neither the current US President nor leading candidates have called for real national prayer and repentance and -- even if any did -- it is not likely that their call for repentance for Americans would be according to the faith of the original New Testament Ecclesia. In all likelihood, they would include Moslems, Buddhists, Taoists and other pagan religions that are an affront to YEHOVAH God. Consider the following:

"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14).

National repentance and prayer is what the USA needs or it is biblically-doomed (cf. Habakkuk 2:6-8; Daniel 11:39). The same holds true for its Anglo-Saxon-descended allies such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The whole Israelite world needs to repent.

Although many sincerely believe that it is their "Christian duty" to vote (even though that "duty" is not specified in the Bible), some seem to have overlooked some prophecies related to political leaders in the end times:

"As for My people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O My people! Those who lead you cause you to err, and destroy the way of your paths” (Isaiah 3:12).

"For the leaders of this people cause them to err, and those who are led by them are destroyed" (Isaiah 9:16).

It should be clear that Isaiah prophesied that there would be end time leaders that cause people to err. This is what many politicians directly and indirectly do.

Let’s look at some of what the scriptures teach are to be traits of godly leaders:

"Listen now to my voice; I will give you counsel, and God will be with you: Stand before God for the people, so that you may bring the difficulties to God. And you shall teach them the statutes and the laws, and show them the way in which they must walk and the work they must do. Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens" (Exodus 18:19-21).

“The spirit of the LORD spoke by me, and His word was on my tongue. The God of Israel said, The Rock of Israel spoke to me: ‘He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God'" (2 Samuel 23:2-3)

Most politicians do NOT endorse YEHOVAH's laws and statutes, and do NOT hate covetousness, hence they are not people that Christian-Israelites should endorse.

While it is true that -- like the King of Nineveh (Jonah 3:5-6) -- political leaders could call for national repentance after enough people begin a fast, the reality is that this simply is not something that many of them ever seriously consider, let alone do. It seems that this will not happen (unless, perhaps, after the prophesied destruction).

YEHOVAH God will decide who He wants in various offices:

"This decision is by the decree of the watchers, and the sentence by the word of the holy ones, in order that the living may know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, gives it to whomever He will, and sets over it the lowest of men" (Daniel 4:17).

By voting, one could be voting against YEHOVAH's will. YEHOVAH's people do not want to be found fighting against YEHOVAH God (Acts 5:39). We do not want to accidentally assist in empowering one who is against YEHOVAH God.

Notice also a disturbing comment from a secular source that generally supports democracy:

"All political campaigns lie and mislead. We all know that, and that knowledge is 'baked into the cake,' so to speak, when it comes to assessing candidates" (Bookman J. GM on Romney: "Campaign politics at its cynical worst." Atlanta Journal Constitution, October 31, 2012. http://blogs.ajc.com/jay-bookman-blog/2012/10/31/gm-on-romney-campaign-politics-at-its-cynical-worst/)

No candidate should lie or mislead. And while we are not agreeing with the statement that they all do, the reality is that it is not godly conduct to lie or mislead, and that not only reflects unfavorably on the candidates -- but also the process of modern democracy. As far as lying goes, consider the following related to the first US presidential debate in 2016 between the two leading candidates:

"September 27, 2016

"AP FACT CHECK: Trump, Clinton deny their own words in debate

"WASHINGTON (AP) -- Donald Trump's habit of peddling hype and fabrication emerged unabated in the first presidential debate while Hillary Clinton played it cautiously in her statements, though not without error. They both denied making statements that they are on the record as saying." (http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_CAMPAIGN_2016_DEBATE_FACT_CHECK?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2016-09-27-03-38-37).

If those running for office will not tell the truth related to their own public statements, how can they be trusted to do what is right?

Should they be called out for their sins? The Bible teaches:

"Cry aloud, spare not; Lift up your voice like a trumpet; Tell My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins" (Isaiah 58:1).

The Bible is clear that humankind, apart from YEHOVAH God, cannot solve its problems. YEHOVAH God will return and He will be the non-humanly elected King of Kings (Revelation 19:11-16). Problems all humans have faced will be solved by the return of YEHOVAH God and the Messiah -- and the establishment of the Kingdom of YEHOVAH God:

"Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He [YEHOVAH God] will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." Then He who sat on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new'" (Revelation 21:3-5).

No matter which politician gets elected in carnal governments, human political leaders will not bring this about.

What if You are Legally Required to Vote?

Now there are some nations that require their citizens to vote. So what should a Christian-Israelite do?

Vote for as few items as you are legally allowed to. But first, pray that YEHOVAH's will will be done and unless something is a clear moral issue (like voting to specifically allow homosexual marriage or some other straight forward moral choice), basically randomly vote.

However, since most nations do not require citizens to vote, it is best not to.

What Should Christian-Israelites Do About Leaders?

If Christians are not supposed to vote to select leaders -- what should we do about leaders? Pray for them!

Notice what Paul wrote:

"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior" (1 Timothy 2:1-3).

Notice that we are to pray for worldly leaders and those that have authority over us so that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life. Nothing like this is said for voting that many falsely claim is their "Christian" duty -- prayer for leaders is. We are also to pray for our spiritual leaders. Notice what the Messiah taught:

"The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the LORD of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest" (Luke 10:2).

Notice what Paul taught:

"Brethren, pray for us" (1 Thessalonians 5:25).

"Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the LORD may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith" (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2).

We also are to pray that,

"The will of the LORD be done" (Acts 21:14).

Similarly, the Messiah taught:

"And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray:

'Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven'" (Matthew 6:7-10).

And that -- we believe -- should be the type of prayer that Christian-Israelites use regarding elections. Followers of the true God are also told to:

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil" (Proverbs 3:5-7).

Voting for one promoting evil (abortion in the case of most USA Democrats and “country first,” in violation of the first commandment, in the case of certain USA Republicans) is not a Christian thing to do. Many people -- however -- apparently are not satisfied with the biblical admonitions to trust YEHOVAH God to choose political leaders. This is not new (1 Samuel 8:6-7). And while we can certainly understand that people often feel that they should do more, people often forget that YEHOVAH God inspired Jeremiah to write:

"O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps" (Jeremiah 10:23).

Also notice what Hosea was inspired to write:

"Observe mercy and justice, and wait on your God continually" (Hosea 12:6).

Some of those that vote seem to forget what YEHOVAH God said:

"'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' says the LORD. 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts...'"(Isaiah 55:8-9).

"This decision is by the decree of the watchers, and the sentence by the word of the holy ones, in order that the living may know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, gives it to whomever He will, and sets over it the lowest of men" (Daniel 4:17).

It may be of interest to point out that the Messiah suggested that people would take matters in their own hands thinking that they are doing YEHOVAH God a service (John 16:2). And while this referred to killing, the principle is still that one should not violate what YEHOVAH God instructs, and justify it by thinking that is what YEHOVAH wants one to do.

Biblical Proofs Christian-Israelites Should Not Vote

PROOF ONE presents a central biblical understanding that few recognize. Consider these questions: Who is behind the selection of leaders over the many countries of Earth? Who actually chooses them? Ultimately, do men select presidents and prime ministers, who stand as the human leaders of nations today? We saw this is Satan’s world. But is this the whole picture? Does YEHOVAH God also play a role in men’s affairs?

Benjamin Franklin once said, “...the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth -- that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid?”

Was Franklin correct?

A little known, but remarkable, passage that is mentioned earlier in this article, but bears repeating, flies in the face of what every voter thinks upon casting his ballot. This is part of a remarkable story and partly explains why more talented people are leaving politics than ever before. It contains an amazing statement. Notice:

“This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomsoever He will, and sets up over it the BASEST OF MEN” (Daniel 4:17).

The word base means “the bottom, under.” If a house has abasement, it is located at the bottom or under the house.

This part of Daniel’s prophecy describes a king, Nebuchadnezzar, who may have been the greatest Gentile leader the world has seen -- the “head of gold” of the giant image described in chapter 2. As a result of his important role in prophecy -- leading the greatest empire on Earth nearly 2,600 years ago -- Nebuchadnezzar became lifted up with pride. Notice his words in verse 30: “The king spoke, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of MY power, and for the honor of MY majesty?”

This worldly king was impressed with his own accomplishments and the grandeur of the spectacular ancient city (and kingdom) of Babylon over which he ruled. The account records that YEHOVAH God humbled and punished him by giving him the mind of a wild beast for a period of seven years (verses 32-33).

Nebuchadnezzar was an exception to the rule of Daniel 4:17 -- and there are a few such exceptions that YEHOVAH God guides, for His own reasons. Think of Abraham Lincoln, George Washington and Winston Churchill. But He plainly states that He places “the basest of men” over the governments and nations on Earth. Also, Daniel 2:21 states, “[YEHOVAH God] removes kings, and sets up kings.”

Now, typically, whom do people seek to put into office when they cast their ballot in an election? They try to ensure that the “best candidate” wins! No one votes for someone because they think that he is the “worst candidate.” However -- if we are to believe Daniel 4:17 -- this puts them in direct opposition to YEHOVAH’s purpose -- which is that the worst, or basest, man wins. The weakest, basest, lowliest people are often those whom YEHOVAH God, for His own purpose, installs into office. This effect is why more qualified leaders often choose not to be part of a system primarily composed of this kind of people. Nebuchadnezzar shows that YEHOVAH God makes a few exceptions -- but this is His prerogative, not ours.

It is not YEHOVAH’s purpose that the “better” people win. YEHOVAH determines the winners in advance. In the end, the “will of the people” has no power or effect, because YEHOVAH God is in charge of the outcome of elections.

Do not misunderstand, however. The governments of this world are not some-how doing YEHOVAH’s will simply because He selects their leaders. Many preachers completely miss the point, saying, “God is working in this election and good Christians everywhere, if we can get out the vote, can put godly men into office.” This literally puts them in a position of fighting YEHOVAH’s stated purpose. They do not understand WHY YEHOVAH God says the basest people are elected. Just one reason is that YEHOVAH God gives a world that rejects Him the leaders they deserve. Many religious leaders ignore this verse, believing it to be their job to work out YEHOVAH’s purpose. Their efforts actually attempt to override YEHOVAH’s true purpose.

YEHOVAH God is working out a Master Plan that encompasses 7,000 years. He is allowing His people Israel to find out that its own ways, governments, religions, educational systems, values and purposes do not work. YEHOVAH has already picked the leaders who best work toward the fulfillment of His great plan of salvation for all of Israel.

Here is the point. We do not know whom YEHOVAH God has already selected, in advance, as the “winner” that He wants in office. To cast a vote for someone other than the pre-selected winner is to fight YEHOVAH’s purpose! That is serious -- and the Bible says that it is possible to “fight against God” (Acts 5:39)!

Further, if you are seeking to elect the best man, in an election where YEHOVAH God has told you in advance that He is going to pick the “basest” person, you are directly ignoring His purpose -- and overriding it with your own. YEHOVAH has already picked the winner. Christian-Israelites should know they had better “get out of the way,” not “get out the vote”! YEHOVAH God does not need our “help” installing who He has chosen. The “will of the people” has no power or effect, because YEHOVAH God determines the outcome of elections.

PROOF TWO involves a famous “conversation.” In John 18, the Messiah was on trial before Pontius Pilate. In verse 33, Pilate asked the Messiah, “Are You the King of the Jews?” The exchange continues until it climaxes inverse 36. The Messiah had determined not to resist whatever Pilate or the Judeans had chosen as his fate. He answered Pilate’s question. Notice verse 36: “Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if My kingdom were of this world, then would My servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is My kingdom not from hence [here].”

Do you understand the Messiah’s words? He said that his Kingdom (the New Testament term for government) is not of this world. Christian-Israelites are part of THAT government -- YEHOVAH GOD’S government. They await the coming of this government to Earth. Also, just based on this verse (there are many others), the Messiah explains that YEHOVAH’s servants do not fight to defend His Kingdom. Grasp this. Since the Messiah’s servants do not even fight to defend YEHOVAH God’s Kingdom, they certainly, then, would never fight to defend any kingdom led by men in any supposed “just war”!

Remember that YEHOVAH’s Kingdom is not presently on Earth -- it is from another place. It is not the job of His servants, through participation in men’s governments or through fighting in their wars -- which the Bible plainly condemns, and in many passages -- to supposedly spread the Kingdom of YEHOVAH God. It has not yet arrived. Since YEHOVAH’s Kingdom comes from, and is headquartered in, heaven, His servants neither vote in, nor fight for, men’s nations or governments. Related to this, activist denominations, involved in and trying to influence this world’s governments, are not backed by YEHOVAH God or the Messiah. No amount of human reasoning can make it so.

So, the second proof that Christian-Israelites should not vote is because they are part of another Kingdom not of this world. In Matthew 6:9-10, the Messiah told them to regularly pray, “Thy kingdom come,” because his followers serve and look toward that Kingdom, now just ahead. It comes only when YEHOVAH God and the Messiah return.

PROOF THREE builds on number one and actually strengthens that point. We will see this with the next several points, as they interrelate with proof two. First read Philippians 3:20, which states, “For our conversation [the Greek word here should be properly translated citizenship] is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

This is a fascinating passage. It plainly states that a Christian’s “citizenship” is in heaven -- not on Earth. Of course, all true Christians are also citizens of at least one country on Earth (some few have dual citizenship), but this is not their primary citizenship.

This verse explains WHY the Messiah said, “My kingdom is not OF this world.” It is from another place -- HEAVEN! This verse complements John 18:36! Human leaders come from a certain city, state or province of the country that they represent. So does the Messiah. After his resurrection and ascension he comes from heaven.

The Greek word for citizenship is politeuma. POLITICS comes from this word! Christian-Israelites do have a “political agenda,” but it is not of this world. Politeuma technically can also be translated another way. It can mean a townsman. It is correct to say that citizens of men’s governments are townsmen -- of particular towns on Earth.

The word police comes from politeuma. So do policy and  poll. It is not hard to understand how police, policies and polls are connected, in one way or another, to politics. Even the large cities of Indianapolis and Minneapolis derive their names from politeuma. They are large towns with lots of citizens. Minnea(polis) means the major city of Minnesota and Indiana(polis) means the major city of Indiana. Mystery is often stripped away when words are broken down into their most basic meaning. The root meaning of politeuma holds an important lesson for Christian-Israelites regarding from where -- and by whom -- their politics are governed.

Do YEHOVAH’s people practice politics? YES -- in a sense! Christian-Israelites do have a “political agenda,” but not of this world or in any government within it.

This said, is YEHOVAH God political? The answer is absolutely YES! But His politics are not of this society -- man’s civilization of nations and governments. He has His own view of government, His own view of politics. Of course, while not of this world, YEHOVAH God does  have a government.

PROOF FOUR comes from II Corinthians 5:20: “Now then we are AMBASSADORS for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be you reconciled to God.”

The ultimate destiny of Christian-Israelites is to become kings and priests, ruling with our elder brother the Messiah in the Kingdom of YEHOVAH God (Revelation 5:10). But every Christian-Israelite has an important diplomatic job here and now. YEHOVAH’s people represent a foreign government, because, as Paul declared, “Our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20, NKJV).

In the truest sense, real Christians have been “set on a hill” for all to see, just as a light pierces the surrounding darkness so that people can see where to go.

Here is what this means to a Christian ambassador: People are analyzing your every word and action. Therefore, you must set an example that unmistakably identifies what you are and who you represent!

YEHOVAH God intended that ancient Israel be a sterling example in obedience to Him, and that all the surrounding Gentile nations would not be able to help noticing how they too were intended by YEHOVAH God to live (Deuteronomy 4:4-8).

Tragically -- the Bible shows that this never happened. Israel utterly failed their commission! In fact, they failed so miserably that, in the New Testament, Paul often referred to Israel’s example to show the Messiah’s followers how NOT to conduct themselves (I Corinthians 10:6). How much better it would have been had Israel written a positive, righteous record for others to copy!

One bright spot in their history was King Solomon’s early example of wisdom and understanding, which spread so widely that the Queen of Sheba could not believe it. She decided to check for herself (I Kings 10:1-10) and found that she quite literally “hadn’t heard the half of it” (verse 7). Solomon must have been setting a wonderful example. But, though he was king, he was still one man. What if the entire nation had been as wise and righteous as Solomon? It would have had that much greater impact on Israel’s neighbors.

The early Ecclesia also had a difficult time learning to generate the right light. Paul must have had great patience as he dealt with the Corinthian congregation. Having much to say to them about their wrong conduct, he explained, “…we are ambassadors for Christ” (II Corinthians 5:20). The reference was not to the ministry or apostles alone, though these are ambassadors in the most direct sense. He sought to emphasize to Corinth the importance of the examples we all set (verse 10) and stated that, “…if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature” (verse 17). All who are “new creatures” have received an ambassadorial appointment -- a very high office, carrying enormous responsibility in representing YEHOVAH God’s government.

Paul instructed the Philippians to “Only let your conversation [Greek: “conduct”] be as it becomes the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27). That gospel is of the coming government of YEHOVAH God. Is your conduct “becoming” of that government, or do you cast a bad light on it? Are you an “un-becoming” representative?

Notice Paul’s instruction to the Colossians: “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man” (4:5-6).

People outside the Ecclesia should not be able to miss your wisdom. Like Solomon’s -- though to a lesser degree -- it should stand out as unusual. Remember, YEHOVAH God has chosen “the foolish things of the world” to “confound the wise” (I Corinthians 1:26-31). Christian-Israelites must grow in wisdom, discretion, tact and diplomacy, in order to retain their “credentials” as ambassadors.

I Corinthians 6:2shows that the saints will one day judge the world. If that day were here, and all those who knew you in this life could see you as a member of the ruling God Family, what would their reaction be? Would they, by remembering your outstanding example -- in your home, family, neighborhood or job -- find it easy to accept? Or would they collapse in shock that you could have made it into YEHOVAH’s Kingdom? Would they remember hearing you and your mate fighting? Would they recall the disrespect, foul language and unkempt appearance of you or your children? Would an image come back to mind of an uncared-for yard or off-color jokes? Would they remember your unfriendly, secretive manner, your unpainted house, your poor work record -- and on and on?

Yeshua the Messiah gained “favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). In this way, he set an example for his followers (I Peter 2:21). Are you in “favor” with both YEHOVAH God and people? A man or woman can be used by YEHOVAH God to convert his or her mate purely by conduct (I Peter 3:1), without (“the”) Word, the Bible. Take time to read this passage.

People should notice that, as a direct result of your beliefs, your conduct is different from the average person (I Peter 4:4). Does your example convict them? It has been said that YOU may be the only Bible some people ever read. Can people “read” you clearly? Do you even “abstain from all appearance of evil” (I Thessalonians 5:22)?

No error or fault could be found in the prophet Daniel (6:4). His conduct was so outstanding, in all respects, that a group of cunning, carnal-minded politicians could find nothing of which to accuse him -- unless it was “concerning the law of his God” (verse 5). Think! He was not doing a single thing that they could attack -- nothing! This is what it means to be the light of the world. This is what it means to be an ambassador for the Messiah and a member of the true Ecclesia of YEHOVAH God in a world growing darker by the day!

The Greek word for “ambassador” -- presbeuo -- is also interesting. While it means ambassador, the word president comes from it, as does Presbyterian. The most literal meaning of presbeuo is “representative.” In the United States, we have the House of Representatives -- with 435 members. Together with the Senate’s 100 members, this forms the Congress of 535 elected representatives of the people. These elected officials answer to and, in fact, are supposed to represent the will of the people who sent them to Congress. All democratic governments, in which the people select their representatives, work similarly.

It is the same with Christian-Israelites, who are ambassadors, or representatives, of the Messiah.

Consider why the leader of a country often carries the title of President. This is because he is the highest elected representative of the people. The highest office in a country could just as easily carry the title of Representative. And the American House of Representatives could just as easily be called the House of Presidents. These words are interchangeable. A president is a representative and a representative is a president, but men have distinguished between them by picking two different words that mean exactly the same thing! Both come from presbeuo -- and both mean ambassadors. Those who are ambassadors for the Messiah are ambassadors -- or representatives -- in a foreign land. This carries implications.

Any nation’s representative knows that, as ambassador to, for instance, Mexico, India or Lebanon, or any other country, he cannot participate in the politics of that country. He is a citizen of a different nation. He participates in the politics of that nation -- the one he represents. He also cannot fight for the country to which he is sent. If he does either of these -- under any circumstances -- he loses his citizenship at home. In fact, he would be considered a traitor.

Of course, all ambassadors receive a certain “diplomatic immunity.” This legal term is understood and practiced all over the world. One reason the practice developed was because ambassadors could be arrested and tried on trumped up charges. This meant that no one would ever accept appointments to countries where the government is corrupt, and functions on bribes, personal favors, nepotism and rampant injustice.

Here is what everyone should understand, but most do not. Ambassadors of the Messiah do not push or in any way involve themselves in the social, political or cultural agendas of their host country. They represent YEHOVAH God’s laws, ways, values, truths, government and goals. Christians -- true ones -- are ambassadors for another, different government!

All Christian-Israelites do enjoy obvious benefits as citizens in the country of their birth. They have certain immunities and privileges to enjoy the country to which YEHOVAH God “assigns” them as ambassadors -- while still representing their true government, foreign to where they live. As ambassadors of YEHOVAH’s Kingdom, YEHOVAH’s people cannot participate in man’s systems of government -- at all. Their citizenship is derived -- and held by -- a different authority -- HEAVEN!

PROOF FIVE summarizes the previous three proofs as to why Christian-Israelites should not vote. Notice: “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

No human being can give equal allegiance, or loyalty, to two different masters of any kind. The Messiah was actually teaching about seeking YEHOVAH God and the accumulation of money (mammon) at the same time. Eventually, one takes precedence over the other and dominates the thinking of a person. True Christians are to be totally loyal to the heavenly government they represent as ambassadors of the Messiah. As with ambassadors of earthly nations, they cannot participate in the politics of any country other than their own. In the world at large, this can cause violators to lose their rights of citizenship. Christian-Israelites are the same!

Acts 5:29 explains that YEHOVAH God’s servants must, in every circumstance when there is conflict between the two, “…obey God rather than men.” Understand this. If one is a citizen of a government waiting in heaven to come to Earth and replace all governments of Earth, then he cannot stand with his feet resting in two opposing governments -- YEHOVAH God’s and man’s!

PROOF SIX is based on YEHOVAH’s view toward division and discord between His Israelite people. He wants His people to live together in unity and harmony. Notice Psalm 133:1: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” It is a wonderful thing when people get along -- when they AGREE. YEHOVAH God hates division and discord. Notice this powerful verse: “Mark [meaning “take note of”] them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you have learned; and avoid them” (Romans 16:17). Here is another strong passage: “These…things does the LORD hate…he that sows discord among brethren” (Proverbs 6:16,19).

Involvement in politics would bring division and discord into the Ecclesia! How?

It has been said that there are two things that should never be discussed -- never mind debated -- religion and politics! How true. YEHOVAH’s people never push the Messiah's or YEHOVAH's teachings -- in politics or religion -- at people. Few things are worse, and the Messiah condemned this. Violating this principle invariably leads to arguing, strife, fighting and even war. We have learned that Satan’s world is cut off (Isaiah 59:1-2; Jeremiah 5:25) from the God who teaches the way to peace, harmony and unity. So, after an argument has developed concerning religion or politics there can be no resolution, no unity, except by ending the discussion.

What if the brethren in YEHOVAH’s Ecclesia voted in worldly elections? Two things could happen -- one bad and the other worse. There is the slight possibility that everyone would vote for the same person. (That could still be bad, since it may not be the person YEHOVAH GOD wanted!)

Worse, the moment voting is practiced in YEHOVAH’s Ecclesia, division is introduced. Amos 3:3asks, “Can two walk together except they be agreed?” Soon enough, most people learn that the painful answer to this question is No! The political disagreement that breeds division and eventually splits countries, states, cities, towns, neighborhoods and families -- also splits congregations and denominations!

Paul asked, “Is Christ divided?” The obvious answer is no! The Messiah is NOT divided and neither is his Ecclesia (I Corinthians 1:10,13). We have seen that the Messiah also said, “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: and if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?” (Matthew 12:25-26). It is interesting that even SATAN has figured this out! Leading a vast kingdom of fallen spirits (demons), he recognizes that he cannot let his kingdom become polarized into camps.

A professional football team cannot be divided and expect to win the Super Bowl. A baseball team cannot be torn with strife and win the World Series -- or a professional hockey team the Stanley Cup. All divided families will eventually separate. The same is true of countries. The Ecclesia of YEHOVAH God could hardly be different. The Messiah would not say that all other kinds of organizations or entities cannot be divided and survive, while the most important one that he directs -- his Ecclesia -- is an exception. The Messiah would never exempt his Ecclesia from this principle. It should be the epitome of unity and harmony! This is one reason he said, “the gates of hell” (Matthew 16:18) could never defeat the Ecclesia.

Have you ever wondered why the denominations of this world are so many -- so divided -- and why they compete with one another for members? It is because they cannot agree on doctrine or administration. People must AGREE or there will be division in every endeavor. Politics is no different, and the only politics that YEHOVAH God’s servants should participate in are the “politics” of YEHOVAH God!

If voting is practiced by, or introduced into, the Ecclesia, it would split -- and YEHOVAH hates discord (division)!

PROOF SEVEN addresses the system that true Christians avoid, and at all costs. We read earlier that, speaking of the system of religious, political “Babylon, ”Revelation 18:4 gives direct instruction to YEHOVAH’s people: “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, MY PEOPLE, that you be not partakers of her sins.” Also recall He commands, “Come out from among them [the world], and be you separate” (II Corinthians 6:17). Babylon means confusion. The true servants of YEHOVAH God have come out of this world, its Babylonish religions, governments and ways -- they have left behind its teachings, division, strife and CONFUSION (I Corinthians 14:33)!

Let’s understand!

In John 17:15-17, when keeping the Passover on the last night before he was crucified, the Messiah reflected on a central spiritual principle to his disciples, by praying, “I pray not that you should take them out of the world, but that you should keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through Your truth: YOUR WORD IS TRUTH.”

A Christian-Israelite believes and follows the truth -- the whole truth and nothing but the truth of YEHOVAH’s Word -- and not men’s ideas about it! This sets him apart (“sanctifies” him) from all those around him. He is not OF this world and its ways, customs, beliefs and traditions. He has come out of it, leaving its values, ideas and personal philosophies behind. Thus, he would never seek or run for any political office within it.

Obviously, a Christian cannot live on Mars or in a cave. He cannot leave the planet or live as a hermit on a mountain top, so that he is not “of” the world. Some religious zealots misunderstand the Messiah’s words and live in monasteries or retreats to avoid contact with people. Of course, the Messiah did not do this. He did not mean come out of the physical world, but rather its SYSTEM of governments and religions. Christian-Israelites practice and believe the TRUTH (John 17:17) -- not popular ideas!

PROOF EIGHT concerns the fruits -- the byproduct -- of any system or leader. In Matthew 7:16, Yeshua stated, “You shall know them by their fruits.” He repeated, “Wherefore by their fruits you shall know them” (verse 20).Matthew 12:33 says, “…for the TREE is known by his [its] fruit.” These verses are primarily speaking about leaders, but the principle has broad application.

Let’s examine the fruits of the “tree” called politics, voting and democracy. It is based on the spirit of competition between political parties. Each party seeks to gain an advantage over the other and will even undercut good programs if it will cast a bad light on their opponents. During the political process preceding an election (often referred to as “election year politics”), the challenger will invariably oppose the incumbent seemingly at every turn on virtually every issue, to present himself as different, in the best light, solely to get elected. Over time, this has a devastating effect on the unity of a country that is supposed to stand behind its government. This openly -- and sometimes bitterly -- divides the citizenry of any nation.

Democracy is the form of government in three-fourths of the world’s nations. Think of just some of its fruits: favoritism, endless debates and arguments, bribes, lust for power, corruption, lying and deceit, scandals and cover-ups, greed, exploitation, maneuvering and manipulation, aggression, relentless accusation, inefficiency, vanity, decisions based on polls, voter apathy, strife and back-stabbing. Remember that Winston Churchill once said that democracy is better than all the other forms of human government! Democratic politics are shot full of division and disagreement, over nearly every issue that any society might face.

The fruit of the democratic way is CHAOS! Recall that national governments are led by the god of this world and his “wicked spirits [marginal rendering] in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). These wicked spirits sit at the real throttle of power behind the visible governments of nations. The Greeks were much more right than they knew.

No Christian-Israelite can participate in such a system!

PROOF NINE is short and simple -- and easy to understand. Study the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and you will not find a single instance where balloting of any kind was used to select a leader. Nowhere in the Bible can you find people electing New Testament ministers or Old Testament priests -- and the Bible is the pattern that Christian-Israelites are supposed to follow in all matters. They are to “live by every word of God” (Matthew 4:4;Luke 4:4). YEHOVAH’s Word neither authorizes nor reflects any pattern of voting.

Finally, PROOF TEN bears consideration. Some candidates for office want to be a mayor -- others a congressman -- others a governor, judge or senator -- or even a president or prime minister. Ask: What is every political candidate actually saying, between the lines, when he offers himself for the particular office that he is seeking? What is such a person saying about his qualifications?

Focus on a governor or a president -- or perhaps the mayor of a city with millions of people. When a person seeks such a powerful office, that person is saying that he is qualified, in effect, to be considered a powerful leader. Such a person is actively seeking to exalt himself to a position of great authority. He is saying that he is sufficiently intelligent, talented, qualified, educated, experienced and wise to be entrusted with a great office of responsibility. Of course, no one puts it this way. But this is exactly what a candidate is declaring, whether or not he is honest enough to admit it. He is saying, much like Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4:30, that he is a great person, a great leader and the voting masses should hand him GREAT POWER! Voters directly assist such power-hungry, self-serving egotists in their climb to authority.

Here is YEHOVAH God’s perspective. The Messiah said, “For whosoever exalts himself shall be abased; and he that humbles himself shall be exalted” (Luke 14:11). Several chapters later, in18:14, he repeated almost the exact same thing. One look at the greedy, grasping demagogues who are modern politicians, with their pandering theatrics designed to play to the people’s concerns -- and this is just as true of religious leaders -- and you will see that the Messiah understood the corrupting nature of self-exaltation! He sees through the guise of phony concern for the people whose votes these “leaders” must get to receive the POWER they covet.

Some might look at Joseph and Daniel and claim that they sought the high offices they held. However, a careful reading of the accounts found in Genesis and Daniel reveal that they were appointed to their positions (Genesis 39:4; 41:39-44; Daniel 1:5; 2:48). There is no evidence that either of these men ever sought the high offices in which they served. In fact, before Joseph was given his new responsibilities, he was in prison, obviously unable to seek a position in government. These men were elevated to higher levels of service, they did not elevate themselves.

Christian-Israelites are to humble themselves now, in this life (Matthew 18:1-4; James 4:10; I Peter 5:5-6; Micah 6:8). This will allow YEHOVAH God to exalt them later in His Kingdom, where they will rule alongside their elder brother, Yeshua the Messiah, in permanent positions of infinitely greater power and authority than any human office. Politicians exalt themselves and thereby ensure YEHOVAH God will humble them at some later time, usually when they least expect it!

True Christians understand the way YEHOVAH God works. To participate in a system in which men exalt themselves, in the seeking of high office, is to endorse -- to validate -- to agree with -- a corrupt system, with terrible fruit, emphasizing vanity, pride and arrogance. Democracy is completely opposite to what YEHOVAH God expects of His people when He commands them to humble themselves!

Christian-Israelites are not to be part of this world (Revelation 18:1-4), but are to be ambassadors for the Messiah (2 Corinthians 5:20). True Christians "keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ" (Revelation 12:17). The Messiah did not vote while he was on this earth. A Christian-Israelite ambassador should follow the leadership of the Messiah and the Bible and not vote.

The Bible never enjoins voting or democracy. The Bible condemns both individual and republican voting. The Bible teaches that Christian-Israelites should pray about their governmental leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-3) -- it never teaches that voting is a Christian-Israelite duty. Those truly concerned about the selection of leadership of their countries should pray (and if possible, safely fast) for “The will of the LORD be done” (Acts 21:14).

Appendix A: Religious Leaders

Notice what the Apostle Paul wrote about the Messiah's idea of governance:

"And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head -- Christ -- from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love (Ephesians 4:11-16).

So YEHOVAH God appoints true religious leaders.

Also, YEHOVAH God has not left us without any guidance to know who His leaders are. The Messiah said that YEHOVAH's religious leaders on the earth would be known for their fruits:

"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them" (Matthew 7:15-20).

Notice he did not say that you will know them because they got the most votes, but that their prophetic and other fruits would show their genuineness.

The Messiah also continued with,

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in your name, cast out demons in your name, and done many wonders in your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you who practice lawlessness!'" (Matthew 7:21-23).

Those leaders who do not preach obeying the laws of YEHOVAH God are false prophets, even if they talk about the Messiah (Matthew 7:15, 22, 23). Obeying the laws of YEHOVAH God certainly includes preaching the gospel to all the Israelite world (Matthew 28:19, 20) in order to bring forth good fruit (Matthew 7:17-20). Therefore, the true leaders that YEHOVAH God has appointed preach the gospel, do not preach lawlessness, and obey the laws of YEHOVAH God themselves.

Hope of Israel Ministries -- Preparing the Way for the Return of YEHOVAH God and His Messiah!

Hope of Israel Ministries P.O. Box 853 Azusa, CA 91702, U.S.A. www.hope-of-israel.org

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