Jesus for President?
A commentary by Larry Walker
United Church of God Pastor, Bend and Medford, Oregon
Another American election is now history. As results from the
national polls are analyzed, let's pose a challenging question. If His
earthly ministry had occurred in our lifetime on the streets of the United
States, how would Jesus have fit into the political scene? Based on the
New Testament record, we can piece together this possible scenario.
From humble beginnings, Jesus soon attracts a large following as He
travels from town to town, publicly proclaiming a message of hope and
comfort (Mark 10:1, Luke 9:11). He visits schools, hospitals and nursing
homes instead of politically strategic locations. People clearly sense
His profound compassion for the needy and a genuine interest in people
of all ages (Matthew 9:35-36).
He champions the cause of the needy and advocates uncompromising justice,
truth and mercy (Luke 4:18-21). He speaks out against corruption and
scandal and other contemporary problems (Matthew 21:12-13). He promises
a future of unparalleled peace, prosperity and happiness, all rooted
in universal religious reform (Micah 4:1-5, Isaiah 9:7).
Many are deeply impressed by the clarity of His convictions and His
authoritative answers to controversial questions (Matthew 7:28-29). He
expounds, espouses and exemplifies all the qualities of a truly effective
leader and exposes the empty promises and hypocrisy of self-serving power
seekers (Luke 22:24-27).
His candor and courage earn Him widespread popularity and the support
of the silent majority, resulting in scorn and attack from the powerful
leaders of many special interest groups because of his authoritative
and outspoken statements regarding universal truths and moral values
(Matthew 7:24-29). But Jesus cleverly sidesteps the snares of those seeking
to entrap him with leading questions on controversial issues (Matthew
22:15-22), emerging as the hands down winner of every politically charged
public debate (Matthew 22:46).
Cheering crowds with banners and placards are drawn to Him like metal
filings to a magnet. "Jesus for President" begins to appear
on bumper stickers and billboards all over the nation (Matthew 21:1-8,
Luke 12:12-16). Television cameras and reporters follow His every move.
Jesus Christ is clearly the ideal candidate for the highest office in
the land. But when the time and opportunity comes to declare His candidacy,
everyone is shocked by His refusal to run for the nomination of any political
party or on any independent ticket.
At a nationally televised press conference, He explains His position.
Political analysts puzzle over his statement, "My campaign for change
transcends the realm of human politics" (John 18:36). In His typically
enigmatic style (Matthew 13:34-35), He implies that His present whirlwind
of public appearances will soon be over but that, at a future time, He
will again rise to political prominence. He then associates His destiny
with a gripping story about a world leader's extended trip to a distant
destination to prepare for the future office He will accept (Luke 19:11-27).
Reporters swarm around Him, wanting to know more about His future plans.
He assures them that everyone will know when He returns (Matthew 24:23-28,
Revelation 11:15).
Afterward, He privately tells His followers that His time is yet to
come (Acts 1:6-11). He promises His faithful devotees important roles
in His future administration (John 14:1-3, Daniel 7:22, 27). But He stresses
the point that they must live by and share the values He has taught them.
By their example they will exhibit their strong support of His future
plans (Matthew 5:1-10; Revelation 2:26, 3:21).
Jesus Christ is the ideal candidate, not for a current president of
the United States, but as the future sovereign ruler over all creation
(Revelation 19:16). The coming universal rule of Jesus Christ as King
of kings and Lord of lords is certain. It will happen right on schedule
(Daniel 2:44-45). It does not depend on political endorsements or voting
results. So although Jesus for President is not a current option, His
prophesied role as the coming King of kings and Lord of lords is a fundamental
truth of the gospel of the Kingdom of God.
 Be sure to read more about it in His authorized biographies by Matthew,
Mark, Luke and John. They are available in book stores everywhere. And
for a very clear description of His coming administration, be sure to
request or download your copy of our free booklet, The Gospel of
the Kingdom.
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