Aldrian Wilfred Cotingjo

Ericka Mae Mendoza

Kent Adrian Peralta

Sachi Mae Saraum

SHOULD THE CHURCH AS AN INSTITUTION GET INVOLVED IN POLITICS?

We all know that there is a separation in power between the state and the church. Thus, most of
us assumed that the church must not get acquainted and involved with politics, however, it is not the
case. Politics are the activities associated with the governance of the country and its citizens. If we look
at the church, they are concerned not on the politics, itself, but on policies and decisions made by a
political institution that affects the welfare of the citizens. Moreover, we have noticed in recent
situations when the church doesn’t get involved in politics, politicians act beyond their control. Without
the church’s intervention, the government may impose laws and regulations which are not in line with
what is moral and righteous. However, must not forget their limitation set by the separation of part,
avoid favoring someone, they must be neutral.

The church should not be involved in politics because there is a separation of church and state in
theory. Most churches are religious institutions with a spiritual basis, and they appear to have politics at
work in their own systems, so it is reasonable that they are. The only way to get religions to cooperate is
for a state to exist, with rules and reasons founded on secular principles. Dogmatic, faith-based rules are
incapable of accomplishing this, primarily because if you disagree, you can't challenge it anyway, and if
you aren't of that faith, you won't be able to find any satisfactory arguments for such laws. Separation of
religion and state was established to ensure that people could exercise their spiritual or religious views
without fear of retaliation. Religious–political affiliations run counter to this goal.

SHOULD CHRISTIANS GET INVOLVED IN POLITICS?

The Bible is extremely political. We believe in a God who is deeply concerned about his world
and creation, as well as how it is administered. God's universe is dominated by injustice, which he
despises. The greatest commandment given to us as Christian, is to love one another. Loving means
doing what is right and just and taking care of our fellow human being. One of the ways to do so is to get
involved with politics - in a way we are speaking up for the oppressed, ensuring that equality and justice
prevail, and many more. The Church constantly reminds us to do be involved with politics because it is
our duty and right to do so. If one political system fails to do its duty, it is us people, both Christians and
non-Christians, who are greatly affected by it. Thus, Christians should step up, take a stand, and draw a
line, as to impose their conviction and beliefs. However, both parties must exercise the power of limit
and consideration.