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Christians and Politics Uneasy Partners
Have religion and politics always been so divisive? Some Christians believe we have a right—more, a responsibility—to involve ourselves in politics. Others shun any mixing of politics and faith, while still others are turned off by both.
How should Christians act as citizens? Is there a clear-cut pattern we can follow? And does involvement in politics dilute the good news of the gospel for all people?
In his signature, thoughtful style, Yancey tackles headlong a most contentious subject. At a time when labels define the field (red state/blue state, conservative/liberal, Tea Party/moderate), he seeks a common ground where faith and politics intersect, challenging us with five new ways to walk with grace in a world that knows all too little of it.
How should Christians act as citizens? Is there a clear-cut pattern we can follow? And does involvement in politics dilute the good news of the gospel for all people?
In his signature, thoughtful style, Yancey tackles headlong a most contentious subject. At a time when labels define the field (red state/blue state, conservative/liberal, Tea Party/moderate), he seeks a common ground where faith and politics intersect, challenging us with five new ways to walk with grace in a world that knows all too little of it.
26 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
169 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
Philip Yancey
299 books2,394 followersA native of Atlanta, Georgia, Philip Yancey earned graduate degrees in Communications and English from Wheaton College Graduate School and the University of Chicago. He joined the staff of Campus Life Magazine in 1971, and worked there as Editor and then Publisher. He looks on those years with gratitude, because teenagers are demanding readers, and writing for them taught him a lasting principle: The reader is in control!
In 1978 Philip Yancey became a full-time writer, initially working as a journalist for such varied publications as Reader’s Digest, Publisher’s Weekly, National Wildlife, Christian Century and The Reformed Journal. For several years he contributed a monthly column to Christianity Today magazine, where he also served as Editor at Large.
In 2021 Philip released two new books: A Companion in Crisis and his long-awaited memoir, Where the Light Fell. Other favorites included in his more than twenty-five titles are: Where Is God When It Hurts, The Student Bible, and Disappointment with God. Philip's books have won thirteen Gold Medallion Awards from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association, have sold more than seventeen million copies, and have been published in over 50 languages. Christian bookstore managers selected The Jesus I Never Knew as the 1996 Book of the Year, and in 1998 What’s So Amazing About Grace? won the same award. His other recent books are Fearfully and Wonderfully: The Marvel of Bearing God’s Image; Vanishing Grace: Bringing Good News to a Deeply Divided World; The Question that Never Goes Away; What Good Is God?; Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference?; Soul Survivor; and Reaching for the Invisible God. In 2009 a daily reader was published, compiled from excerpts of his work: Grace Notes.
The Yanceys lived in downtown Chicago for many years before moving to a very different environment in Colorado. Together they enjoy mountain climbing, skiing, hiking, and all the other delights of the Rocky Mountains.
Visit Philip online:
https://www.philipyancey.com
https://www.facebook.com/PhilipYancey
Catch his monthly blog:
https://bit.ly/PhilipYanceyBlog
In 1978 Philip Yancey became a full-time writer, initially working as a journalist for such varied publications as Reader’s Digest, Publisher’s Weekly, National Wildlife, Christian Century and The Reformed Journal. For several years he contributed a monthly column to Christianity Today magazine, where he also served as Editor at Large.
In 2021 Philip released two new books: A Companion in Crisis and his long-awaited memoir, Where the Light Fell. Other favorites included in his more than twenty-five titles are: Where Is God When It Hurts, The Student Bible, and Disappointment with God. Philip's books have won thirteen Gold Medallion Awards from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association, have sold more than seventeen million copies, and have been published in over 50 languages. Christian bookstore managers selected The Jesus I Never Knew as the 1996 Book of the Year, and in 1998 What’s So Amazing About Grace? won the same award. His other recent books are Fearfully and Wonderfully: The Marvel of Bearing God’s Image; Vanishing Grace: Bringing Good News to a Deeply Divided World; The Question that Never Goes Away; What Good Is God?; Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference?; Soul Survivor; and Reaching for the Invisible God. In 2009 a daily reader was published, compiled from excerpts of his work: Grace Notes.
The Yanceys lived in downtown Chicago for many years before moving to a very different environment in Colorado. Together they enjoy mountain climbing, skiing, hiking, and all the other delights of the Rocky Mountains.
Visit Philip online:
https://www.philipyancey.com
https://www.facebook.com/PhilipYancey
Catch his monthly blog:
https://bit.ly/PhilipYanceyBlog
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 35 reviews
May 9, 2015
The main theme if this book is summarized in this quotation: "When the church accepts as its main goal the reform of the broader culture, we risk obscuring the gospel of grace and becoming one more power broker." Nietzsche warned: "Beware lest in fighting the dragon you become the dragon."
Evangelicalism has preoccupied itself with fighting culture wars and has forgotten that the message of Christ is grace and love.
Evangelicalism has preoccupied itself with fighting culture wars and has forgotten that the message of Christ is grace and love.
June 6, 2013
This book offers excellent observations and five thought provoking conclusions. Philip Yancey writes such relevant books, and I always come away challenged to think more deeply and to be brutally honest with myself. This book carries a hefty punch, even with a low page count. I really liked it.
October 29, 2012
This is a good quick worthwhile read. This thoughtful approach to the subject of Christians and politics offers some refreshing ideas as to the importance of taking a path of grace and faith when dealing with political matters. It inspired me to take a hard look at my own perceptions, interactions, and expectations when it comes to politics.
February 8, 2016
"Are we concentrating more on the kingdom of this world than on the kingdom that is not of this world? What practically defines the evangelical church today is an emphasis on two issues that Jesus did not even mention. How will we feel if historians of the future look back on the evangelical church of our era and declare, “They fought bravely on the moral fronts of abortion and homosexual rights,” while at the same time reporting that we did little to fulfill the Great Commission, and we did little to spread the aroma of grace in the world?"
This short book is a platter of food for thought. This book offers thought provoking insights when the church chose morality laws over the great commission, and at the same time, shows us the dangers of leaving public morality to secular politicians. In the age of increasing diversity, we need to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves while engaging with culture and politics. As we put on the full armor of God and take our stand against the devil's schemes, we need to remind ourselves that we are still dealing with humans that our Lord Jesus loved and died for. Therefore, we need to choose our battles wisely, and always wear love and grace on our sleeves.
This short book is a platter of food for thought. This book offers thought provoking insights when the church chose morality laws over the great commission, and at the same time, shows us the dangers of leaving public morality to secular politicians. In the age of increasing diversity, we need to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves while engaging with culture and politics. As we put on the full armor of God and take our stand against the devil's schemes, we need to remind ourselves that we are still dealing with humans that our Lord Jesus loved and died for. Therefore, we need to choose our battles wisely, and always wear love and grace on our sleeves.
June 7, 2016
A Clarifying Book
I liked the short length of the book. I think his use of scripture is very skillful.
If you struggle between loving your neighbor and "justice for all" this book is for you. If you believe that God is love and Jesus came with grace and truth this book is for you.
I liked the short length of the book. I think his use of scripture is very skillful.
If you struggle between loving your neighbor and "justice for all" this book is for you. If you believe that God is love and Jesus came with grace and truth this book is for you.
June 7, 2021
Is it really that away today;!!!
I question if our churches obey these same standards today!!! These so called Christian politicians definitely show the love it should!!! Especially around election time!!!
I question if our churches obey these same standards today!!! These so called Christian politicians definitely show the love it should!!! Especially around election time!!!
April 30, 2019
A short, but very thought-provoking book. Glad to see this talented author address a complicated issue that is even more relevant today. I recommend reading this if you find yourself conflicted about how to merge your faith and your political views and activities, as well as how to treat other Christians with different views. I recommend it even more if you are not conflicted and feel certain that you have it right.
November 24, 2019
(NOTE: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book or a B. 3 stars means a very good book or a B+. 4 stars means an outstanding book or an A {only about 5% of the books I read merit 4 stars}. 5 stars means an all time favorite or an A+ {Only one of 400 or 500 books rates this!).
This is a very good introduction to Christianity and politics. Hope to do a more detailed review someday.
This is a very good introduction to Christianity and politics. Hope to do a more detailed review someday.
February 13, 2021
I have always enjoyed the way Philip Yancy approaches his subject matter, thoughtful and pragmatic but pushing through on the things that are dear to his heart, which is the lack of grace among evangelical Christians. His debate between the role of church and state in the morals of the country follows this theme. Although he comes to no definitive conclusion it is a really good read and opens up many lines for thought, discussion and debate.
August 3, 2018
Should be heeded
Yancey thoughtfully addresses how Christians should live out their faith with grace and truth in their culture. He draws from both scripture and history to caution people of faith.
Yancey thoughtfully addresses how Christians should live out their faith with grace and truth in their culture. He draws from both scripture and history to caution people of faith.
March 28, 2021
Thought provoking
Timely. Relevant. Concise. An excellent read which deserves sincere reflection. Yancey calls out a number of ways Christians should re-think their positions on important political matters
Timely. Relevant. Concise. An excellent read which deserves sincere reflection. Yancey calls out a number of ways Christians should re-think their positions on important political matters
July 12, 2025
Humility and Grace
Another great read from Mr Yancey. Although this book relates more to American Christians I really do recommend this. We can be kind and remember why we are called to be a Christian in all we do. A lovely book which can be read in an afternoon.
Another great read from Mr Yancey. Although this book relates more to American Christians I really do recommend this. We can be kind and remember why we are called to be a Christian in all we do. A lovely book which can be read in an afternoon.
April 2, 2018
A short book but makes very clear, very important points. A lot of these points were expounded in other books like Vanishing Grace.
September 8, 2018
A message for dedicated Christians
How much should Christians get involved in politics? Yancey gives Christians something to consider in today's highly polarized political arena.
How much should Christians get involved in politics? Yancey gives Christians something to consider in today's highly polarized political arena.
March 20, 2020
Good things often come in small packages
What a delightful book. Way too short to cover his topic.
But hey, it's worth it. I'll be waiting for more.
What a delightful book. Way too short to cover his topic.
But hey, it's worth it. I'll be waiting for more.
September 11, 2020
A breath of fresh air
In a time of political hatred and division on social media, Philip Yancey speaks truth and grace as Jesus would.
In a time of political hatred and division on social media, Philip Yancey speaks truth and grace as Jesus would.
September 13, 2020
Topic for the current days
Many have been discussing the place of tge church in politics.
Whether I agree or disagree I always value Yancey's honest approach and suggestions.
Many have been discussing the place of tge church in politics.
Whether I agree or disagree I always value Yancey's honest approach and suggestions.
November 30, 2020
As a Christian, I have been trying to understand my faith and how it relates to politics and socio-cultural issues. This book brought so much light!
August 17, 2021
Want to read again later.
April 21, 2022
Thoughtful
This is a good analysis of the problem and it lets you decide for yourself what you should do. I wish it was clearer on what the answer is.
This is a good analysis of the problem and it lets you decide for yourself what you should do. I wish it was clearer on what the answer is.
April 23, 2022
Turns out to be prophetic...
Some of the best and most balanced advice for evangelicals engaged in politics I have found. And I have looked. Thank you Phillip!
Some of the best and most balanced advice for evangelicals engaged in politics I have found. And I have looked. Thank you Phillip!
July 5, 2022
Excellent short book more like an Essay
This is a simple read that challenges our thoughts. Written in 2012 its even more applicable today 10 years later.
This is a simple read that challenges our thoughts. Written in 2012 its even more applicable today 10 years later.
March 13, 2025
Why not 5 stars?
Great read - but left me wanting more. I wish he had an update. It would be fascinating to read his current thoughts on Trump or Biden. (Circa 2025)
Great read - but left me wanting more. I wish he had an update. It would be fascinating to read his current thoughts on Trump or Biden. (Circa 2025)
January 8, 2017
The two largest controversies debated in our legal judicial system today deals with the Supreme Court striking down the Texas abortion clinic regulation on June 26, 2016, and the Supreme Court Legalizing Gay Marriage Nationwide June 26, 2015.
What does Jesus say about both topics? Very little.
Homosexuality was more prevalent in Jesus' day as philosophers had sexual relations with young boys.
Young girls, however, were not valued and were often discarded at birth on the side of the road before modern abortion procedure practices and Planned Parenthood.
"Christians condemned the exposure of infants as murder." As a result, the male population skyrocketed and soon there were no daughters to marry, kind of like what is happening in China and India, with an infestation of gang rape and molestation.
Only the rich aristocrat could afford wives who were so rare.
Many daughters were saved and adopted by Christian families who valued life.
As a result "many Christian girls had to marry pagan men or remain single, and for many pagan men, it was either a Christian bride or bachelorhood."
Sociologist Rodney Starks writes in World's 2012 book of the year, "The Triumph of Christianity," alleging an interesting statement of being "unequally yoked," noting that, "both Peter and Paul accepted intermarriage. Peter advised women with unconverted husbands, 'be submissive to your husbands.'"
If we take a look at the Roman Emperor Constantine, we see a prime example. Both his mother and wife he married were Christian. It was as a result of this pre-abortion ascendency that the emperor stopped the practice of Christians from getting eaten alive by lions in the arena and no longer would they have to worship in catacombs at midnight leading to over a 1,000 years of Byzantine reign.
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28Love does not delight in controversey and making the headlines and being in the spotlight and performing incredible actions and miracles. Many times love is simply quiet and gentle.
Matt 7:21-23
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
What does Jesus say about both topics? Very little.
Homosexuality was more prevalent in Jesus' day as philosophers had sexual relations with young boys.
Young girls, however, were not valued and were often discarded at birth on the side of the road before modern abortion procedure practices and Planned Parenthood.
"Christians condemned the exposure of infants as murder." As a result, the male population skyrocketed and soon there were no daughters to marry, kind of like what is happening in China and India, with an infestation of gang rape and molestation.
Only the rich aristocrat could afford wives who were so rare.
Many daughters were saved and adopted by Christian families who valued life.
As a result "many Christian girls had to marry pagan men or remain single, and for many pagan men, it was either a Christian bride or bachelorhood."
Sociologist Rodney Starks writes in World's 2012 book of the year, "The Triumph of Christianity," alleging an interesting statement of being "unequally yoked," noting that, "both Peter and Paul accepted intermarriage. Peter advised women with unconverted husbands, 'be submissive to your husbands.'"
If we take a look at the Roman Emperor Constantine, we see a prime example. Both his mother and wife he married were Christian. It was as a result of this pre-abortion ascendency that the emperor stopped the practice of Christians from getting eaten alive by lions in the arena and no longer would they have to worship in catacombs at midnight leading to over a 1,000 years of Byzantine reign.
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28Love does not delight in controversey and making the headlines and being in the spotlight and performing incredible actions and miracles. Many times love is simply quiet and gentle.
Matt 7:21-23
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
February 23, 2017
Restored my faith
Philip Yancey hit on all the issues I have with organized religion today. I may have found a way back.
Philip Yancey hit on all the issues I have with organized religion today. I may have found a way back.
May 4, 2016
This isn't a very long book, but it is a very relevant book. I purchased it after becoming uneasy at some of the political statements being made in the pulpit of our Methodist church in England. Our Bible study group even had a session on politics and the church and we were split down the middle over whether one should spill into the other. I wish I had this book when we had that Bible study. Even though it is mainly American focused, it does makes very good points about what the church is good at and what it is bad at. The church is good when it directly tries to help solve issues like poverty, homelessness, addiction, trauma relief, and many others. The church can reach people, help heal people, help them see the grace of Jesus at work. The church is particularly bad when it does morality on the political stage. It becomes an "us and them" sort of thing. "You can't be pro-choice if you are a Christian" or "you can't be a Christian and support gay marriage". Those who are pro-choice or pro-gay marriage may feel that the church simply would not be for them because after all, they do not agree with the church. However, by making it about morality issues, we forget that all humans are sinners and fall short of the glory of God. Many, many, many Christians sin daily and whether these issues are sins or not is a matter for debate, for understanding not for rejecting outright the right of someone else to see things differently. The main point Philip Yancey makes though is by persuing morality, the church neglects grace. The world need grace now more than ever. That is why I am very uneasy about politics being a part of the church.
February 10, 2017
All Christians should read this book.
I've always enjoyed Philip Yancey's books and this one did not disappoint. It's a call to Christians to act more Christ
like. We will win more souls and have a bigger impact on our country if we show more grace.
I've always enjoyed Philip Yancey's books and this one did not disappoint. It's a call to Christians to act more Christ
like. We will win more souls and have a bigger impact on our country if we show more grace.
February 12, 2017
Every Christian Should Read This Book Before Their Next Facebook Political Post!
A great perspective on the role of a Christian in regards to politics. It clarified my beliefs and gave me some things to think about.
A great perspective on the role of a Christian in regards to politics. It clarified my beliefs and gave me some things to think about.
April 3, 2016
Still Applicable and Will Continue to Be So
I picked up Philip Yancey's book to re-read it in the light of recent events in the process we have come to know as election politics. Time and again I found the principles the author outlines as very applicable in evaluating current political discourse.
His reference to an earlier election where a Catholic candidate whose eventual success was demonized as a path straight to Papal control of the United States brought back memories of the rhetoric. As I recall it was evangelical leaders who made many such claims. One wonders what may yet be said if a certain Jewish candidate succeeds in getting the Democratic Party nomination and then prevails in the general election.
Take a look at what Yancey has to say and then consider the behavior of candidates in the present. What will constitute a Christian response and voting in 2016?
I picked up Philip Yancey's book to re-read it in the light of recent events in the process we have come to know as election politics. Time and again I found the principles the author outlines as very applicable in evaluating current political discourse.
His reference to an earlier election where a Catholic candidate whose eventual success was demonized as a path straight to Papal control of the United States brought back memories of the rhetoric. As I recall it was evangelical leaders who made many such claims. One wonders what may yet be said if a certain Jewish candidate succeeds in getting the Democratic Party nomination and then prevails in the general election.
Take a look at what Yancey has to say and then consider the behavior of candidates in the present. What will constitute a Christian response and voting in 2016?
Displaying 1 - 29 of 35 reviews