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How Would Jesus Vote?: Do Your Political Views Really Align With The Bible?
This eye-opening, non-partisan, and comprehensive look at what Jesus and the Bible can teach us about many of the hot-button topics of today’s political landscape “does not simply call us to think outside the box, but to think outside our bias” (Chip Ingram, author of Culture Shock ).
During every election year, we hear politicians on both sides of the aisle as well as religious leaders of every stripe claim to know—with absolute certainty—where Jesus and Christianity stand on their favorite issues. Jesus, of course, would vote exactly as they do. But would he?
Examining some of the most contentious political topics of our time in light of Scripture and the teachings of Jesus, the end goal of this book is not to promote a particular point of view but to objectively portray what the Bible says on political and cultural topics. Darrell Bock intends to provoke a different kind of conversation—one where differences are heard and respect is shared, a conversation where we can disagree passionately yet dialogue peacefully.
During every election year, we hear politicians on both sides of the aisle as well as religious leaders of every stripe claim to know—with absolute certainty—where Jesus and Christianity stand on their favorite issues. Jesus, of course, would vote exactly as they do. But would he?
Examining some of the most contentious political topics of our time in light of Scripture and the teachings of Jesus, the end goal of this book is not to promote a particular point of view but to objectively portray what the Bible says on political and cultural topics. Darrell Bock intends to provoke a different kind of conversation—one where differences are heard and respect is shared, a conversation where we can disagree passionately yet dialogue peacefully.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published March 29, 2016
16 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Darrell L. Bock
112 books71 followersDarrell L. Bock is a New Testament scholar and research professor of New Testament studies at Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas, United States. Bock received his PhD from Scotland's University of Aberdeen.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 12, 2023
I am not religious and do not subscribe to any organized religion. However, I do read opposing Views. The title of this book peaked my curiosity. I found myself agreeing with the author on several points even in his most controversial chapters (7, 12, & 13). I found there was some common ground.
The overall message is that America’s society is one made up of diverse people. People who live differently, make different choices, believe differently. And our society has that freedom, which is not afforded to other societies. As such, citizens of this diverse society must learn how to respect those differences in the public square.
That’s the experiment of this country! The ability to live together even with such difference.
It’s a great book if for nothing else, gaining an understanding of the opposing view and why they believe the way they do.
The overall message is that America’s society is one made up of diverse people. People who live differently, make different choices, believe differently. And our society has that freedom, which is not afforded to other societies. As such, citizens of this diverse society must learn how to respect those differences in the public square.
That’s the experiment of this country! The ability to live together even with such difference.
It’s a great book if for nothing else, gaining an understanding of the opposing view and why they believe the way they do.
May 23, 2021
Picked up this book, because I listened to Dr. Bock give a lecture on the Christian’s mandate to care for refugees a few years ago. Nothing particularly Earth shattering, but would be a good read for anyone that’s wanting a more nuanced way for their faith to interact with their politics.
September 27, 2021
The author wrote this book for the 2016 election to help the Christian community to negotiate political issues biblically and informatively thru the election. It covered a wide range of political issues from the size of government, gun control, foreign policy to racial justice. Bock recognises the bible does not offer specifics on many modern issues for which general biblical principles and commonsensical analysis were suggested. Bock's intent is to bring informative dialogue on controversial issues. Judging from the Christian community's reaction then and the election result, I don't know how many read this book.
Bock presented several original nuanced treatments atypical of conventional evangelical approaches. With regard to the scriptural view of government, Bock suggested that the Scripture does not indicate applying the theocratic structure of Israel to earthly governments. The church does not dictate a public space or inform governmental structure (p6). Bock takes a very common interpretation of the role of government from Roman 13, namely, upholding the law and collecting taxes, which citizens should pay, for governmental functionalities. He sees the church as a separate organisation from the government to benefit society. There is a separation of church and state. This echoes a common notion that the church or Kingdom of God is not of this world. Bock suggests the church's independence from the state offers the benefit to the church in maintaining its own identity, moral and religious commitment among the greater diversified society (p.32).
In the issue of poverty, Bock illustrated a running theme to help the poor in both the Old and New Testament. The Old Testament does not tolerate the existence of the poor found amomg the Israelite community nor the oppression of the poor while jesus in the New testament was seen often working among the poor. In the issue of immigration, passages in Scripture featuring the running theme to help the poor refer also to the foreigners (as well as orphans and widows ). This reveals a scriptural mandate to help the poor and the immigrants which is different from American conservative/Republican position where many U.S. evangelicals situate themselves. Bock however does not draw attention to this latter political elephant in the room or, whenever his views seem to part company from conservative evangelicals, but just call attention to the biblical analysis. He just states the facts as he sees it.
Bocks offers an analysis of religious liberty using the idea of "public space vs sacred space" in a chapter on "Sexuality and religious liberty" Sacred space is a functional space of religious communities to live according to their religious commitment. He thinks religious institutions should have the freedom to engage freely in such functions as long as such functions don't unduly burden the public space in a multicultural modern society. This analysis is similar to Rawls notion of living an individual's comprehensive doctrine within the overlapping consensus of a multicultural society with mutually incompatible comprehensive doctrines. He thinks the legal question posted about a baker's religious liberty to accept business from a gay couple is similar to the question of conscientious objector against military service. But, of course, a distinction is to be noticed: one deals with competing moral doctrines in public space while the other is about individual moral doctrinal interest vs public interest. In the case of competing moral doctrines, the baker's case, the effects play out in the public space but have effects only against each other unless it rises to judicial settlement. In the conscientious objector case, it puts sacred space directly against public space.
This book covers a lot of territory. Treatments of some issues are somewhat superficial or overly obvious but often due to lack of biblical specifics. But the efforts are still commendable.
Bock presented several original nuanced treatments atypical of conventional evangelical approaches. With regard to the scriptural view of government, Bock suggested that the Scripture does not indicate applying the theocratic structure of Israel to earthly governments. The church does not dictate a public space or inform governmental structure (p6). Bock takes a very common interpretation of the role of government from Roman 13, namely, upholding the law and collecting taxes, which citizens should pay, for governmental functionalities. He sees the church as a separate organisation from the government to benefit society. There is a separation of church and state. This echoes a common notion that the church or Kingdom of God is not of this world. Bock suggests the church's independence from the state offers the benefit to the church in maintaining its own identity, moral and religious commitment among the greater diversified society (p.32).
In the issue of poverty, Bock illustrated a running theme to help the poor in both the Old and New Testament. The Old Testament does not tolerate the existence of the poor found amomg the Israelite community nor the oppression of the poor while jesus in the New testament was seen often working among the poor. In the issue of immigration, passages in Scripture featuring the running theme to help the poor refer also to the foreigners (as well as orphans and widows ). This reveals a scriptural mandate to help the poor and the immigrants which is different from American conservative/Republican position where many U.S. evangelicals situate themselves. Bock however does not draw attention to this latter political elephant in the room or, whenever his views seem to part company from conservative evangelicals, but just call attention to the biblical analysis. He just states the facts as he sees it.
Bocks offers an analysis of religious liberty using the idea of "public space vs sacred space" in a chapter on "Sexuality and religious liberty" Sacred space is a functional space of religious communities to live according to their religious commitment. He thinks religious institutions should have the freedom to engage freely in such functions as long as such functions don't unduly burden the public space in a multicultural modern society. This analysis is similar to Rawls notion of living an individual's comprehensive doctrine within the overlapping consensus of a multicultural society with mutually incompatible comprehensive doctrines. He thinks the legal question posted about a baker's religious liberty to accept business from a gay couple is similar to the question of conscientious objector against military service. But, of course, a distinction is to be noticed: one deals with competing moral doctrines in public space while the other is about individual moral doctrinal interest vs public interest. In the case of competing moral doctrines, the baker's case, the effects play out in the public space but have effects only against each other unless it rises to judicial settlement. In the conscientious objector case, it puts sacred space directly against public space.
This book covers a lot of territory. Treatments of some issues are somewhat superficial or overly obvious but often due to lack of biblical specifics. But the efforts are still commendable.
May 21, 2017
Bock discusses thirteen social issues that should determine a Christians vote. Bock uses a lot of statistical analysis and general information that should give context on casting a ballot. The only chapter that leaves a lot to be desired is the chapter on health care. Here he uses statistical evidence from Ezekiel Emmanuel. Emmanuel has sense been largely discredited. Comments include a concern for the poor and needy run through Scripture. " Once life is put in place , care, and effort to preserve life should be pursued to the fullest." This seminary professor is not strident or unkind but he basically gives the Biblical perspective for voting. Parts of the book make dry reading but I found it helpful.
November 30, 2017
Balanced look at divisive, hot-button cultural and political issues. Seeks to discover biblical perspectives and encourages discussion to reach biblical solutions. Provides tentative solutions / possibilities in some areas, but its goal is more to start and encourage discussion rather than reach definite conclusions.
March 13, 2016
As America races along with primary season and political candidates vie to be their party's nominee for President, the question is once again raised of which candidate would Jesus vote for? Or rather which candidate should an informed Christian vote for?
In order to answer this question, one must look at how scripture and the Christian faith intersect with the major political issues that confront us today. This is the theme that New Testament Scholar Darrell L Bock explores in How Would Jesus Vote?
Right off the bat, Bock warns against finding easy answers. He acknowledges that not only do we not know how Jesus might vote but whether he would even vote at all, given his near complete indifference to the politics of his day.
Bock argues the reason that our politics are so contentious is due to an increasing unwillingness to understand or humanize our opponents and listen to their arguments. Bock argues that Love, especially for a Christian, is about not simply tolerance but an active engagement and genuine dialog.
It is in the spirit of this genuine dialog that Bock tackles a number of topics from health care, immigration and the racial divide. In each chapter Bock's presents a commendably lengthy discussion that seeks to objectively highlight arguments from all angles and review their implications and considerations. After this, Bock then turns to scripture and shows what support can be found related to the issue. There then follows a final summary of discussion on how this scriptural support can inform and illuminate the arguments presented.
Bock is careful enough to stay away from appealing to any final conclusions on each topic. His goal is to present topics for discussion and reflection that are the beginning of the reader reaching an informed conclusion by themselves, rather than being told overtly which arguments are the most biblical. It is an impressive goal that is achieved almost without exception in the book, though there just a couple of instances where I feel Bock presents a slightly weakened and distorted dialog.
The first is regards the Chapter 12's discussion on The Family and in particular same-sex marriage. Bock argues the “stable home” should be protected as essential for healthy child development. That divorce, single parent homes and same-sex relations can be damaging, even if children are not present because they threaten to alter the normative understanding of family. In the case of same-sex relations Bock's main opposition is the high levels of promiscuity and lack of monogamy among same-sex couples. Yet is not the same true of straight marriages given their divorce rates and rampant infidelity? If traditional marriages can be redeemed back to a stable norm, it does not seem to follow why the same could not be true of same-sex marriages. Romans 1 is left to do all the heavy lifting here and no reasonable argument is provided to conclude how this passage shows that a monogamous married same-sex couple who were able to provide a loving home for adopted children should still be considered damaging to Bock's normative family ideal (or indeed how this is more damaging to the child than remaining in state care). It certainly doesn't fall under the destructive and consuming lust Paul is concerned with.
Another minor gripe is with Chapter 9's superb examination of War and Peace. Bock goes to extraordinary depth in analyzing the implications for Just War doctrine with regards the rise of modern hybrid threats like ISIS. He considers not merely militaristic goals (what would success look like, is it even possible?) but also the social and political limits in dealing with non-state actors who may or may not be actively supported by states they operate in. It is against this extraordinary detailed backdrop that we see pacifism appealed to by a plentiful supply of biblical support, while only a couple of bullet points can be found to support Just War. The scriptural support section is then wrapped up in a single paragraph, an abrupt ending to an otherwise superb chapter that feels like someone has torn out a few pages.
These minor points aside, I highly recommend How Would Jesus Vote?. Bock's considerate and respectful engagement of arguments on all sides is exactly the kind of response to the current trend of dehumanizing petty political discussion that is sorely needed. It is a worthwhile read not only for those looking to explore and challenge their own political positions, but I feel would work well in a study group setting. How Would Jesus Vote? may not provide easy answers on how Jesus Christ might vote, but it does provide a near-perfect example of how Christians should approach politics. With thoughtful engagement, mutual respect and meaningful dialog.
In order to answer this question, one must look at how scripture and the Christian faith intersect with the major political issues that confront us today. This is the theme that New Testament Scholar Darrell L Bock explores in How Would Jesus Vote?
Right off the bat, Bock warns against finding easy answers. He acknowledges that not only do we not know how Jesus might vote but whether he would even vote at all, given his near complete indifference to the politics of his day.
Bock argues the reason that our politics are so contentious is due to an increasing unwillingness to understand or humanize our opponents and listen to their arguments. Bock argues that Love, especially for a Christian, is about not simply tolerance but an active engagement and genuine dialog.
It is in the spirit of this genuine dialog that Bock tackles a number of topics from health care, immigration and the racial divide. In each chapter Bock's presents a commendably lengthy discussion that seeks to objectively highlight arguments from all angles and review their implications and considerations. After this, Bock then turns to scripture and shows what support can be found related to the issue. There then follows a final summary of discussion on how this scriptural support can inform and illuminate the arguments presented.
Bock is careful enough to stay away from appealing to any final conclusions on each topic. His goal is to present topics for discussion and reflection that are the beginning of the reader reaching an informed conclusion by themselves, rather than being told overtly which arguments are the most biblical. It is an impressive goal that is achieved almost without exception in the book, though there just a couple of instances where I feel Bock presents a slightly weakened and distorted dialog.
The first is regards the Chapter 12's discussion on The Family and in particular same-sex marriage. Bock argues the “stable home” should be protected as essential for healthy child development. That divorce, single parent homes and same-sex relations can be damaging, even if children are not present because they threaten to alter the normative understanding of family. In the case of same-sex relations Bock's main opposition is the high levels of promiscuity and lack of monogamy among same-sex couples. Yet is not the same true of straight marriages given their divorce rates and rampant infidelity? If traditional marriages can be redeemed back to a stable norm, it does not seem to follow why the same could not be true of same-sex marriages. Romans 1 is left to do all the heavy lifting here and no reasonable argument is provided to conclude how this passage shows that a monogamous married same-sex couple who were able to provide a loving home for adopted children should still be considered damaging to Bock's normative family ideal (or indeed how this is more damaging to the child than remaining in state care). It certainly doesn't fall under the destructive and consuming lust Paul is concerned with.
Another minor gripe is with Chapter 9's superb examination of War and Peace. Bock goes to extraordinary depth in analyzing the implications for Just War doctrine with regards the rise of modern hybrid threats like ISIS. He considers not merely militaristic goals (what would success look like, is it even possible?) but also the social and political limits in dealing with non-state actors who may or may not be actively supported by states they operate in. It is against this extraordinary detailed backdrop that we see pacifism appealed to by a plentiful supply of biblical support, while only a couple of bullet points can be found to support Just War. The scriptural support section is then wrapped up in a single paragraph, an abrupt ending to an otherwise superb chapter that feels like someone has torn out a few pages.
These minor points aside, I highly recommend How Would Jesus Vote?. Bock's considerate and respectful engagement of arguments on all sides is exactly the kind of response to the current trend of dehumanizing petty political discussion that is sorely needed. It is a worthwhile read not only for those looking to explore and challenge their own political positions, but I feel would work well in a study group setting. How Would Jesus Vote? may not provide easy answers on how Jesus Christ might vote, but it does provide a near-perfect example of how Christians should approach politics. With thoughtful engagement, mutual respect and meaningful dialog.
May 19, 2016
My Rating – Must Read
Level – Fairly Easy, moderate in length
Summary
The book seeks to look at broad topics in American politics and see what we can determine about them from the Bible. Bock does this mostly by listing verses and how they can apply. Along with an intro and concluding chapter, he writes thirteen chapters:
1. Principals that built America – interesting chapter on the point of religious freedom as the founders saw it.
2. Loving your neighbor – obviously a major point for Jesus, not only was it the second greatest commandment, but gave us the famous story of the Good Samaritan. Bock points to this idea as our starting point for look at issues the way Jesus would.
3. Big or Small Government – brief overview of the pros and cons of each. The best take away is more his point that we needed to realize we can’t have everything and need thoughtfully seek a balance.
4. Economics of Poverty – he continues the balance idea from the previous chapter and extends it to balancing helping the poor and personal responsibility.
5. Health Care – This is a tough topic as there is nothing in the Bible about healthcare. He does a great job pointing out the massive failures of our current system, but doesn’t really say much as to how Jesus or we should vote about it.
6. Immigration – you really forget how much about immigration there is in the Bible, especially the OT. This seems to be an ancient problem that has affected most societies. Due to this, he takes a stronger stance in this chapter as to which way we should vote and consider this issue.
7. Gun Control – Similarly to the health care discussion, there isn’t much in the Bible about guns, as, you know, they didn’t exist yet. He summarizes the horrible impact of our gun violence, but isn’t willing to go as far as saying we should vote to curtail it.
8. Foreign Policy and Globalization – National Interest or Common Good, the latter being international good. Not much from the Bible here either, but interesting overall and a good general analysis of how the issue impacts America.
9. War and Peace – Just War or Pacifism, traces ‘Just’ War (as in justified) to Augustine and Pacifism clearly in the Bible. Not many policy implications outside of war as a means of last resort, and some questioning whether preemptive war counts as justified.
10. Race – Great chapter to take on this issue. Walks a nice line between looking at race and realizing that there are real differences and problems as well as clear historical issues, all while reminding us to look past race in the sense that all are created in God’s image as well as tying back into ‘loving your neighbor’. He also calls on Christians to care about these issues and to acknowledge there is an issue.
11. Education – obviously an important topic that is not discussed as much as it should, but it again it felt more like some of the other chapters where he points out how poorly we are doing without really taking up one policy or another.
12. The Family – one of the stronger chapters as far as policy goes, there are two aspects focused on in this chapter. One is the problem of single parent households and the other is gay marriage. He points to the damage and disadvantages of growing up in a single parent household, and focus on how Christians should seek to strengthen families. He view gay marriage as unbiblical with clear scriptural proofs, but then seems to tie it to the family issue, without discussing the fact that a child could be brought up in a two parent household this way.
13. Abortion – pretty clear here. He never points to an exact time in which life begins, admitting that we really don’t know. However, it is certainly sooner than 12 weeks. Most Christians will not find anything new in this chapter, but it is a compelling reminder of the issue, nonetheless.
My Thoughts
My only disappointment in this book is he never really states how he thinks Jesus would vote. He usually has a heading at the end of each chapter that ask what would Jesus have to say but never goes as far as picking a side on many of the issues or even alluding to which party may be better than the other on a particular topic. That likely has to do more with the title the editors gave the book than what Bock seeks to do.
This is a very important book for people curious as to how their faith should interact with politics, especially in our current political climate where each side at different times like to claim Christ and disparage the other as an unbeliever. People should take the time to read through the issues and really think about the verses listed.
www.MondayMorningTheologian.com
Level – Fairly Easy, moderate in length
Summary
The book seeks to look at broad topics in American politics and see what we can determine about them from the Bible. Bock does this mostly by listing verses and how they can apply. Along with an intro and concluding chapter, he writes thirteen chapters:
1. Principals that built America – interesting chapter on the point of religious freedom as the founders saw it.
2. Loving your neighbor – obviously a major point for Jesus, not only was it the second greatest commandment, but gave us the famous story of the Good Samaritan. Bock points to this idea as our starting point for look at issues the way Jesus would.
3. Big or Small Government – brief overview of the pros and cons of each. The best take away is more his point that we needed to realize we can’t have everything and need thoughtfully seek a balance.
4. Economics of Poverty – he continues the balance idea from the previous chapter and extends it to balancing helping the poor and personal responsibility.
5. Health Care – This is a tough topic as there is nothing in the Bible about healthcare. He does a great job pointing out the massive failures of our current system, but doesn’t really say much as to how Jesus or we should vote about it.
6. Immigration – you really forget how much about immigration there is in the Bible, especially the OT. This seems to be an ancient problem that has affected most societies. Due to this, he takes a stronger stance in this chapter as to which way we should vote and consider this issue.
7. Gun Control – Similarly to the health care discussion, there isn’t much in the Bible about guns, as, you know, they didn’t exist yet. He summarizes the horrible impact of our gun violence, but isn’t willing to go as far as saying we should vote to curtail it.
8. Foreign Policy and Globalization – National Interest or Common Good, the latter being international good. Not much from the Bible here either, but interesting overall and a good general analysis of how the issue impacts America.
9. War and Peace – Just War or Pacifism, traces ‘Just’ War (as in justified) to Augustine and Pacifism clearly in the Bible. Not many policy implications outside of war as a means of last resort, and some questioning whether preemptive war counts as justified.
10. Race – Great chapter to take on this issue. Walks a nice line between looking at race and realizing that there are real differences and problems as well as clear historical issues, all while reminding us to look past race in the sense that all are created in God’s image as well as tying back into ‘loving your neighbor’. He also calls on Christians to care about these issues and to acknowledge there is an issue.
11. Education – obviously an important topic that is not discussed as much as it should, but it again it felt more like some of the other chapters where he points out how poorly we are doing without really taking up one policy or another.
12. The Family – one of the stronger chapters as far as policy goes, there are two aspects focused on in this chapter. One is the problem of single parent households and the other is gay marriage. He points to the damage and disadvantages of growing up in a single parent household, and focus on how Christians should seek to strengthen families. He view gay marriage as unbiblical with clear scriptural proofs, but then seems to tie it to the family issue, without discussing the fact that a child could be brought up in a two parent household this way.
13. Abortion – pretty clear here. He never points to an exact time in which life begins, admitting that we really don’t know. However, it is certainly sooner than 12 weeks. Most Christians will not find anything new in this chapter, but it is a compelling reminder of the issue, nonetheless.
My Thoughts
My only disappointment in this book is he never really states how he thinks Jesus would vote. He usually has a heading at the end of each chapter that ask what would Jesus have to say but never goes as far as picking a side on many of the issues or even alluding to which party may be better than the other on a particular topic. That likely has to do more with the title the editors gave the book than what Bock seeks to do.
This is a very important book for people curious as to how their faith should interact with politics, especially in our current political climate where each side at different times like to claim Christ and disparage the other as an unbeliever. People should take the time to read through the issues and really think about the verses listed.
www.MondayMorningTheologian.com
May 19, 2016
The elections are coming! We've gotten the phone calls, our mail boxes are being filled with all kinds of ads for the propositions and candidates, and on television, we have witnessed the debates coming from both sides of the spectrum for this presidential election. As a believer in Christ, we find it hard to sort through all the propaganda being streamed in from all kinds of sources. It seems no matter how much you research it, you can't get a straight answer on what you should vote for in order to line up with biblical standards.
So you find yourself wanting to fill in the blank or opt out of voting when no real candidate meets our criteria and perhaps that is the problem. In fact it makes you wonder, How Would Jesus Vote? Darrel L. Bock has written a great novel that digs into the meat of what makes our country what it is. How did our founding fathers so long ago deal with differences in both religious beliefs, race and a diversity that seems to be driving us apart more than united us together? He tackles all that and more in this wonderful book that gives us a different perspective using the Bible as a source of reference on how we look at such topics like racial conflict, economics, poverty, health care, immigration, gun control, foreign policy, war, education, sexuality, abortion and so much more.
Using the Bible to help us see things from Jesus' point of view really gives us something to consider when we look at what direction we want our country to move in and how to deal with difficult task of not only dealing with citizens, but also dealing with illegal immigration and the influx of refugees wanting to enter the country. I love how well thought out and researched this is and before reading it I was pretty resolved on several issues, however this one had me really rethink what I believe and more so, how I can debate with others and still respect their differences and love them as Christ would.
I received How Would Jesus Vote by Darrell L. Bock compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest and personal evaluation. I really wanted to read this novel to get a better understanding of how as a voter who believes in Jesus should vote when we find ourselves challenged to know what to do. This really helped and would be a great resource to anyone before this next election in November! I would rate this a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.
So you find yourself wanting to fill in the blank or opt out of voting when no real candidate meets our criteria and perhaps that is the problem. In fact it makes you wonder, How Would Jesus Vote? Darrel L. Bock has written a great novel that digs into the meat of what makes our country what it is. How did our founding fathers so long ago deal with differences in both religious beliefs, race and a diversity that seems to be driving us apart more than united us together? He tackles all that and more in this wonderful book that gives us a different perspective using the Bible as a source of reference on how we look at such topics like racial conflict, economics, poverty, health care, immigration, gun control, foreign policy, war, education, sexuality, abortion and so much more.
Using the Bible to help us see things from Jesus' point of view really gives us something to consider when we look at what direction we want our country to move in and how to deal with difficult task of not only dealing with citizens, but also dealing with illegal immigration and the influx of refugees wanting to enter the country. I love how well thought out and researched this is and before reading it I was pretty resolved on several issues, however this one had me really rethink what I believe and more so, how I can debate with others and still respect their differences and love them as Christ would.
I received How Would Jesus Vote by Darrell L. Bock compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest and personal evaluation. I really wanted to read this novel to get a better understanding of how as a voter who believes in Jesus should vote when we find ourselves challenged to know what to do. This really helped and would be a great resource to anyone before this next election in November! I would rate this a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.
May 17, 2016
The title to this book may be a bit misleading. Bock admits he is not sure if Jesus even would vote. Jesus intersected little with politics except to tell his disciples to pay taxes. Perhaps a better title would be something about relating the teachings of Jesus and of Scripture to current issues.
Bock examines current political issues in the light of Scripture. The issues are complex and often simple conclusions are not possible. The values and teachings of Jesus challenge us to think deeply and not make snap decisions.
He covers a number of topics including racial conflict, economics, health care, immigration, gun control, foreign policy, war, education, sexuality, abortion, and more. He gives much background material on the topic and frequently includes statistics. He then looks at Scripture and gleans principles from it.
Many of these issues are not up for a vote, at least for we individual U.S. citizens. The emphasis of this book seems to be more in the area of engaging one another in discussion. These issues are very complex and frequently there is not a clear cut answer found in Scripture. On the issue of health care, for example, Bock admits that he has no concrete ideas how to fix the situation. He does present the biblical and moral values that tell us we should be better at caring for one another.
This would be a great book for a “current issues” discussion class at church. There would be much to discuss guided by principles from the Bible. It is also a good example of how one explores Scripture to find principles when engaging in a complex issue in our modern world.
You may be convinced you know how Jesus would vote on a particular issue. I suggest you read this book as you may find some surprises. I did on a couple of the issues, like gun control and health care. You won't find any definite supernatural answers to the complex issues of today but you will find lots of material to help you engage others in meaningful discussions about them.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
Bock examines current political issues in the light of Scripture. The issues are complex and often simple conclusions are not possible. The values and teachings of Jesus challenge us to think deeply and not make snap decisions.
He covers a number of topics including racial conflict, economics, health care, immigration, gun control, foreign policy, war, education, sexuality, abortion, and more. He gives much background material on the topic and frequently includes statistics. He then looks at Scripture and gleans principles from it.
Many of these issues are not up for a vote, at least for we individual U.S. citizens. The emphasis of this book seems to be more in the area of engaging one another in discussion. These issues are very complex and frequently there is not a clear cut answer found in Scripture. On the issue of health care, for example, Bock admits that he has no concrete ideas how to fix the situation. He does present the biblical and moral values that tell us we should be better at caring for one another.
This would be a great book for a “current issues” discussion class at church. There would be much to discuss guided by principles from the Bible. It is also a good example of how one explores Scripture to find principles when engaging in a complex issue in our modern world.
You may be convinced you know how Jesus would vote on a particular issue. I suggest you read this book as you may find some surprises. I did on a couple of the issues, like gun control and health care. You won't find any definite supernatural answers to the complex issues of today but you will find lots of material to help you engage others in meaningful discussions about them.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
October 18, 2016
The title of this book is somewhat misleading, as the author admits himself that we don’t even know if Jesus would indeed vote. If you were expecting a book that would tell you clearly where Jesus himself would vote on some of the major issues in this year’s election, you might be disappointed. However, what the author does is look at a number of key issues and then looks at what Scripture overall, and Jesus in particular says about them. In most cases, he then offers a balanced view, not conservative or liberal, on the issue. The one issue that is the exception to this is abortion.
The book reminded me of Scott Sauls’ excellent book Jesus Outside the Lines in the way it takes a thoughtful, not either/or view on most of the issues discussed. The book is “an attempt to present the values of Jesus and Scripture in a way that challenges cherry-picking on complex issues of policy. It’s about biblical values, government, and our neighbors.” While we don’t know whether Jesus would vote, the author states that we can know the principles he taught that relate to how we are to interact with others.
The well-researched book begins with an introduction to the principles our country was founded on. The author than has two “Starting Points” chapters that lay the foundation needed before he begins talking about the issues that divide us. The remaining chapters examine some of the most contentious political topics of our time in the light of Scripture and the teachings of Jesus. Those issues include the size of government, poverty and wealth, health care, immigration, gun control, foreign policy, war, race, education, sexuality and abortion.
I found this book to be helpful in looking at these issues that divide us. The author states that should Jesus vote, “his ballot would be cast for that which honors God and allows his creatures to flourish in life and to manage the creation well. His party would pursue the virtue that makes for a stable society and respects that we are all made in God’s image.”
The book reminded me of Scott Sauls’ excellent book Jesus Outside the Lines in the way it takes a thoughtful, not either/or view on most of the issues discussed. The book is “an attempt to present the values of Jesus and Scripture in a way that challenges cherry-picking on complex issues of policy. It’s about biblical values, government, and our neighbors.” While we don’t know whether Jesus would vote, the author states that we can know the principles he taught that relate to how we are to interact with others.
The well-researched book begins with an introduction to the principles our country was founded on. The author than has two “Starting Points” chapters that lay the foundation needed before he begins talking about the issues that divide us. The remaining chapters examine some of the most contentious political topics of our time in the light of Scripture and the teachings of Jesus. Those issues include the size of government, poverty and wealth, health care, immigration, gun control, foreign policy, war, race, education, sexuality and abortion.
I found this book to be helpful in looking at these issues that divide us. The author states that should Jesus vote, “his ballot would be cast for that which honors God and allows his creatures to flourish in life and to manage the creation well. His party would pursue the virtue that makes for a stable society and respects that we are all made in God’s image.”
June 9, 2016
How would Jesus vote may seem like a ridiculous question since Jesus' earthly life preceded voting, but it isn't. And Darrell Bock show us why in his helpful book, "How Would Jesus Vote?" Underlying the answer to how Jesus would vote is one of the central principles of Christianity: loving your neighbor. Weaving this principle through the book, Bock strives to offer objective arguments to help Christians think biblically and theologically about eleven hot-button issues facing Americans in the first quarter of the twenty-first century. Applying such a biblical/theological approach to political/moral issues might lead some conservatives to adopt more liberal views and vice versa. But the goal of Bock's book (and should be the goal of all followers of Christ) is not simply to affirm political orthodoxy, but biblical orthodoxy in regard to the complex issues facing America today. You might disagree with some of Bock's conclusions (as I do), and you will certainly experience discomfort to the challenge of long-held positions (as I did), but Bock's book serves as a worthy and timely reminder that Christian citizens owe more to Christ and our fellow citizens than we do to political platforms or personalities.
So how would Jesus vote? He would vote for those policies and persons who honor God, who advance human flourishing, and who care well His creation.
So how would Jesus vote? He would vote for those policies and persons who honor God, who advance human flourishing, and who care well His creation.
August 4, 2016
I am saddened by the title of this book as I don't think it accurately describes the content. Dr. Bock implied in a later chapter that he hoped to be speaking to people from all sides of issues. (I doubt that many non-Christians would care how Jesus would vote.) I gathered that Dr. Bock hopes this book will be a launching pad for rich and diverse discussions. It doesn't provide pat answers.
This book encourages Americans to come to the table and have a deeper discussion about the varied and complex issues that concern us all.
It seems that everyone has taken a side and is digging in their heels to defend their side, prohibiting us from really hearing the hearts of the other. Nothing will be solved until we learn to listen and discuss with intent to understand the other person and find common ground and possibly a compromise rather than automatically attacking their position if it differs from our own.
The true, deeper issues can get blurred by the surface issues and by the emotions. Dr. Bock suggests difficult topics of discussion that he feels need to be dealt with in a deeper way and he offers some points to consider. It is food for thought, not answers and solutions.
This book encourages Americans to come to the table and have a deeper discussion about the varied and complex issues that concern us all.
It seems that everyone has taken a side and is digging in their heels to defend their side, prohibiting us from really hearing the hearts of the other. Nothing will be solved until we learn to listen and discuss with intent to understand the other person and find common ground and possibly a compromise rather than automatically attacking their position if it differs from our own.
The true, deeper issues can get blurred by the surface issues and by the emotions. Dr. Bock suggests difficult topics of discussion that he feels need to be dealt with in a deeper way and he offers some points to consider. It is food for thought, not answers and solutions.
May 11, 2016
How Would Jesus Vote? gives a reader 13 political issues and gives one to think more about what the scriptures from the Bible say about those issues.
These issues are:
How It All Began: The Principles That Built America
Starting Points: Loving Your Neighbor
Starting Points: Big Government or Small?
Economics and Poverty: Personal Wealth or Shared Resources?
Health Care: Comprehensive Coverage or Choice?
Immigration: The Character of a Society
Gun Control: Self-Defense or Restraint
Foreign Policy and Globalization: National Interest or Common Good?
War and Peace: "Just War" or Pacifism?
Race: Equality, Violence and Justice
Education: Relating to a Globalized World
The Family: Sexuality and Individual Rights
Abortion and Embryos: Right to Life or Right to Choose?
I have conflicting thoughts on this book. I was expecting more. I felt I had more questions than answers after reading this. I did give me more to think about.
3 stars
I received this book from Howard Books in exchange for my honest opinion, which was given.
These issues are:
How It All Began: The Principles That Built America
Starting Points: Loving Your Neighbor
Starting Points: Big Government or Small?
Economics and Poverty: Personal Wealth or Shared Resources?
Health Care: Comprehensive Coverage or Choice?
Immigration: The Character of a Society
Gun Control: Self-Defense or Restraint
Foreign Policy and Globalization: National Interest or Common Good?
War and Peace: "Just War" or Pacifism?
Race: Equality, Violence and Justice
Education: Relating to a Globalized World
The Family: Sexuality and Individual Rights
Abortion and Embryos: Right to Life or Right to Choose?
I have conflicting thoughts on this book. I was expecting more. I felt I had more questions than answers after reading this. I did give me more to think about.
3 stars
I received this book from Howard Books in exchange for my honest opinion, which was given.
September 6, 2016
Read this with Gregg. I don't think the title accurately describes the book. It doesn't provide answers, and you don't finish the book with any idea of "how Jesus would vote." Instead, the book encourages Americans to begin open, honest, hard discussions about "hot topics" that they disagree on. Instead of attacking the "other side," listen to their points, their concerns, their hearts, their ultimate desires....and work on compromises toward mutual end goals.
May 27, 2016
my review is posted on my blog
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