In each Epistle, this column features a single question to which our pastors are asked to reply.
It is usually connected to the issue’s theme and crafted to reveal the unique personalities and experiences of our beloved leaders.
What is important to you when considering which candidates to vote for?
Pastor June Barrow
I have one simple goal as I vote. Regardless of the individual whose name is on the ballot, I vote for what will produce the best future for my children and grandchildren. I vote for the long-term good of my country and state and city, to the best of my ability. Considering the enduring perspective helps me focus beyond the war of personalities in the media.
Pastor Su Kim
There is much to consider when deciding which candidates to vote for, but I think the most important thing is to pray over all the candidates. Regardless of who is elected, they are the leaders placed in authority and we are to continue to pray for them as they lead and serve.
Pastor Doug Pratt
It is difficult to make wise and accurate choices on so many of the local and state election contests because we typically know very little about the candidates. On the national level it is just the opposite: we know a great deal about the presidential and vice-presidential candidates. When it comes to those crucial elections, I have become more and more a policies and worldview voter rather than a personality or a public/media persona voter. Because political parties at the national level have moved very far in opposite directions, the choice is pretty stark: we have a good idea what we are getting when we choose one party or another as their envisioned agendas for the future are dramatically different.
Pastor Brad Rogers
What is important is to consider the candidate’s values, integrity, and policy insofar as they align with my own values. Let’s be honest, there are no perfect candidates in politics. However, if I understand what a candidate stands for, can reasonably trust that he or she will demonstrate integrity in following through on those values, and believe that the candidate’s policies seek the welfare of the most people as defined by Scripture, I will prayerfully vote for that individual.
Pastor Allen Walworth
I try to discern which candidate has the inner character and sound moral compass to navigate our country toward its best future. I think the leaders we elect must be persons who have the wisdom and courage to represent the aspirations and hopes of all Americans (whether or not they voted for him or her), and will call us to our highest ideals and values.
Pastor Steven Grant
Three questions guide my thinking. First, is the candidate qualified for this office? Second, and more important, is the candidate committed to what is best for the country, state, or city respectively, or is the candidate more committed to his or her political power and the power of his or her party? In other words, is this person a statesman or a politician? Most important of all, does the candidate’s worldview, values, and vision for leadership coincide with my own—at least to a significant degree? Since I strive to be a disciple of Jesus (though the candidate does not necessarily have to be a Christian) I con-sider to what extent his or her views, values, and ethics are consistent with the teachings of Christ.
