In the film about William Wilberforce, “Amazing Grace,” we see how a man was motivated by his Christian faith to engage in political action on a particular cause. The film raises questions for Christians about the proper role for Christians in the political process. When we examine the Bible, we see many examples of how God used His people in political situations to accomplish His purposes; Joseph, Esther, Daniel and Nehemiah all held political offices in foreign lands.
This leads us to ask, what is the role of Christians in political engagement in our day? While Joseph, Esther, Daniel and Nehemiah were used in similar ways to politicians in our day, is that the only role for Christians?
In answer to the first question posed, the biblical examples show that God can and does use his followers within the political system for accomplishing good in our society. In answer to the second question, in addition to these role models, we see other important roles that are not as obvious. First, there are those who supported those in leadership roles. Second, there are other roles, most importantly, the role of the prophets. Prophets were called by God to point out to the political and religious leadership where they were going wrong and call them back to God's way. Prophets not only spoke to the leadership of Israel , but also to other countries (Jonah called Nineveh to repentance, for example). The prophetic role of the church in this way is exemplified by those identified with Dietrich Bonheoffer in Nazi Germany who denounced the treatment of Jews and Christians identified with Archbishop Desmond Tutu in South Africa who denounced apartheid.
These studies focus on what we learn from those in the Old Testament who held leadership positions in foreign lands. It is not intended to be a comprehensive study, but rather a starting place for understanding how God can use His people in contemporary society to be transforming agents for justice and for the good of all people.
Political engagement is a dynamic activity and involves virtually all aspects of a person's abilities, skills, talents, relationships and spirit. It is an all-consuming endeavour to those who are in the front lines. It cannot be done on a hit and miss basis because if it is, competitors and opponents will consider that person a vulnerable target.
Political engagement is serious business and not easily entered into, nor is success assured. While the biblical examples chosen, and William Wilberforce himself, were successful, not all those who engage politically or take on political causes, are successful. Hence, to undertake a study of political engagement requires in-depth study and analysis of which these studies are just a beginning.