RZehr wrote:Okay, but why do Christians need to take the positions that their vote is a result of the Holy Spirits leading?
Sometimes I allow my children to decide a inconsequential decision by majority. Many times my coworkers decide where to have lunch by consensus or by majority. If I vote for eating lunch at a certain place, I'm not saying that the Holy Spirit is directing me there and that others are wrong. Likewise (and closer home), if I vote for someone to be a Sunday School teacher, I'm not saying that others are voting against the Holy Spirit.
So, I can understand (in theory) how someone can vote casually. But I will admit and agree that it doesn't appear to work out like this in real life most of the time.
It feels odd to be arguing from this side of this issue. I do promote nonvoting. I strongly believe it is a much cleaner position, and more consistent with what I believe.
Principle vs. Application
I believe there is clear teaching in the Bible regarding the principle of separation of the two kingdoms. Not voting is a good application of this principle. But it is not the principle thing. Just as modesty is a biblical principle, and long pants and long sleeve shirt might be the application. Or bearing one anothers burdens is a principle, and not having insurance is an application of that principle.
When I confuse the application for the principle, I may end up grasping at biblical straws in order to defend an my exact application.
(for me) .. i sense a difference between voting as a tool for earthly life, versus, the terrible fail of turning voting/politics into a false god. it can become an addiction/obsession, which is not a tool. a few forum members have described formerly being addicted to politics! - the way they control this is to reject all of it, as alcoholics avoid all alcohol. (not all reject voting due to problems of addiction. i do not intend to imply that!)
many have no problem with alcohol. God created us - differently.
i'm not sure i know anyone who would drink in front of another they knew was an alcoholic, or would offer alcohol to an alcoholic - this is understood! scriptures refer to stumbling blocks.
one example of local voting:
decisions about whether to increase local taxes to improve roads, bridges.
(this example reminds me of how you allow your children some occasional votes on family matters.)