What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from Here
★
Publishers Weekly
starred review
"A nuanced look at America's legacy of scriptural language."-- Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Christianity Today 2024 Book Award Finalist (Politics and Public Life)
How do Bible passages written thousands of years ago apply to politics today? What can we learn from America's history of using the Bible in politics? How can we converse with people whose views differ from our own?
In The Ballot and the Bible, Kaitlyn Schiess explores these questions and more. She unpacks examples of how Americans have connected the Bible to politics in the past, highlighting times it was applied well and times it was egregiously misused.
Schiess combines American political history and biblical interpretation to help readers faithfully read Scripture, talk with others about it, and apply it to contemporary political issues--and to their lives. Rather than prescribing what readers should think about specific hot-button issues, Schiess outlines core biblical themes around power, allegiance, national identity, and more.
Readers will be encouraged to pursue a biblical basis for their political engagement with compassion and confidence.
"A nuanced look at America's legacy of scriptural language."-- Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Christianity Today 2024 Book Award Finalist (Politics and Public Life)
How do Bible passages written thousands of years ago apply to politics today? What can we learn from America's history of using the Bible in politics? How can we converse with people whose views differ from our own?
In The Ballot and the Bible, Kaitlyn Schiess explores these questions and more. She unpacks examples of how Americans have connected the Bible to politics in the past, highlighting times it was applied well and times it was egregiously misused.
Schiess combines American political history and biblical interpretation to help readers faithfully read Scripture, talk with others about it, and apply it to contemporary political issues--and to their lives. Rather than prescribing what readers should think about specific hot-button issues, Schiess outlines core biblical themes around power, allegiance, national identity, and more.
Readers will be encouraged to pursue a biblical basis for their political engagement with compassion and confidence.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2023
292 people are currently reading
5313 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 344 reviews
June 28, 2023
A very important exploration of the intersection of American culture and Biblical interpretation in American Christianity.
The author is well trained both in political theology and Biblical interpretation. She explores a series of historical events and the Biblical interpretations and understanding related to those events, both as they took place and as later Americans looked back to them. She considers the "city on a hill" of Winthrop and the Puritans; how Romans 13 was understood during the American Revolution by both Patriots and Loyalists; how the Bible was read and interpreted by abolitionists and slaveholders in antebellum America; the Social Gospel and how its advocates and opponents interpreted relevant Scriptures; how the Scriptures were understood during the days of the Civil Rights Movement, both by its advocates and detractors; the conservative justification of limited and small government; the intersection of the Cold War and dispensational premillennialist eschatology; how George W. Bush and Barack Obama appealed to Christianity and Scripture; the Evangelical embrace of Trump in terms of "giving unto Caesar"; and she concludes with a history of interpretation of Jeremiah 29 and its use in political theology to "seek the welfare of the city" while in "exile."
The reason this work is so important is because the author is less interested in advancing a given political ideology or agenda and is much more concerned for Christians to participate better in American political discourse by considering the history of Biblical interpretation in our "Bible haunted" nation and to do better political theology, better rooted in what God has accomplished in Jesus. She is not wrong to lament how poorly and terribly Christians have exegeted Scripture in light of their politics, how much confirmation bias is involved, and thus why all Christians do well in humility to consider in what ways they might be wrong. The goal is not to abandon the political sphere; the goal is to best reflect Jesus when we engage in the political sphere.
Highly recommended for all Christians.
The author is well trained both in political theology and Biblical interpretation. She explores a series of historical events and the Biblical interpretations and understanding related to those events, both as they took place and as later Americans looked back to them. She considers the "city on a hill" of Winthrop and the Puritans; how Romans 13 was understood during the American Revolution by both Patriots and Loyalists; how the Bible was read and interpreted by abolitionists and slaveholders in antebellum America; the Social Gospel and how its advocates and opponents interpreted relevant Scriptures; how the Scriptures were understood during the days of the Civil Rights Movement, both by its advocates and detractors; the conservative justification of limited and small government; the intersection of the Cold War and dispensational premillennialist eschatology; how George W. Bush and Barack Obama appealed to Christianity and Scripture; the Evangelical embrace of Trump in terms of "giving unto Caesar"; and she concludes with a history of interpretation of Jeremiah 29 and its use in political theology to "seek the welfare of the city" while in "exile."
The reason this work is so important is because the author is less interested in advancing a given political ideology or agenda and is much more concerned for Christians to participate better in American political discourse by considering the history of Biblical interpretation in our "Bible haunted" nation and to do better political theology, better rooted in what God has accomplished in Jesus. She is not wrong to lament how poorly and terribly Christians have exegeted Scripture in light of their politics, how much confirmation bias is involved, and thus why all Christians do well in humility to consider in what ways they might be wrong. The goal is not to abandon the political sphere; the goal is to best reflect Jesus when we engage in the political sphere.
Highly recommended for all Christians.
September 2, 2024
This book describes the use of Biblical passages throughout American history and then proceeds to analyzes how various political opinions were supported or attacked. Examples are cited on both sides of various questions and the author provides what I found to be insightful commentary.
The author’s approach seemed to me to be fair and objective, however the fact that I found it acceptable may be an indication that the book has liberal bias. This book promotes in-depth study of a text’s meaning considering its original context and how it interfaces with other parts of scripture. I presume readers who prefer flat and literal interpretations of scriptural text consider this book’s approach to be typically liberal.
Below I have listed chapter titles with a brief summary of their contents. Note that some of the chapter subtitles actually include names of recent American politicians (which makes things more interesting).
1. A City on a Hill: An American Legacy of Puritan Biblical Interpretation
The phrase “The city on a hill” comes from Mathew 5, however John Winthrop used it in a famous 1630 sermon that goes on to claim for American colonies the Biblical promises intended for Israel or the Christian church. Actually the phrase “The city on a hill” was not particularly famous until Ronald Reagan used it in 1970.
2. Submission and Revolution: Romans 13 and American Identity
Loyalists focused on the New Testament while patriots focused on the Old Testament. The debate focused on Romans 13 which advocates submitting to governing authorities. Loyalists said this meant submitting to the King’s authority, but patriots claimed it only applies when the ruler exercises reasonable and just authority.
3. "The Bible through Slave-Holding Spectacles": The Bible in the Civil War
The “curse of Ham” idea from the story of Noah was used by slaveholders in support for a radicalized slavery in America. Slaveholders separated spiritual freedom from earthly freedom to convert slaves to Christianity without freeing them from slavery. Abolitionists claimed universal truth behind an overall message of Bible. Black people applied Biblical narrative, prophecy, and judgement to their own context of slavery.
4. Your Kingdom Come: Social Gospel Hermeneutics
The social gospel came out of liberal theology and inner-city contexts. The social gospel sought to Christianize society by submitting political, economic and social life to Christian principles. Evangelicals focused more on personal conversion, however social concerns were part of their history as well.
5. A Stick of Dynamite: Civil Rights and Scripture
Many civil rights activists were motivated by Biblical passages. The Exodus story in particular was used by M.L. King in his “I have a dream” speech. Segregationists appealed to God’s natural order to enforce hierarchy. White moderates focused on individual sin and separated social justice from the gospel.
6. Magic of the Market: The Hermeneutics of Small Government
Biblical faith became intertwined with conservative economics that advocated for small government and low taxes. Ronald Reagan supported the religious fears of state power as a threat to both the market and Christian church. Reference is made to Ronald Nash who argued that the Bible teaches general ethical principles but science teaches neutral principles of economics. Ronald Sider was a liberal theologian who argued that the Bible calls for social reforms and prioritizes the needs of others.
7. Late Great United States: Biblical Eschatology in the Cold War
Christianity became tied to American nationalism and the fight against atheistic communism. The Late Great Planet Earth by Hal Lindsey popularized dispensational theology that tied contemporary global political events to end time predictions in the Bible.
8. Prayer, Politics, and Personal Faith: George W. Bush's and Barack Obama's Use of Scripture
Barack Obama and George W. Bush were both Christians but used the Bible differently in their political speeches. George W. Bush had a private, personal faith, and his references to it were indirect. Obama used biblical language more directly and articulated his faith more publicly. White evangelicals preferred Bush’s approach (I wonder why).
9. "Give unto Caesar What Is Caesar's": Evangelicals and Trump
Christians supported Donald Trump using a version of two kingdoms theology claiming that “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s” meant that the usual rules didn’t apply in politics. Christian theology applies only the church, family, and community. Christians were not electing a pastor, so traditional Christian values didn’t apply. God didn’t tell Caesar how to rule Rome.
10. Seek the Peace and Prosperity of the City: Jeremiah 29 and Political Theology
Interpretation of Jeremiah 19 where God tells the Israelites to seek the prosperity of their city while in exile has changed over the years depending on the current political context. Augustine used this passage in his two cities approach to political theology which offered comfort for persecuted Church. Calvin made a harsher distinction between the civil and spiritual authorities, and said that God provides a divine commission to the state and thus has obligations for protection and peace which is separate from the duties of spiritual authorities. Contemporary exilic theory is rooted in pacifism, rejection of political power, and prioritizes the social life of the church. This can lead to withdrawing from political engagement altogether. Jeremiah’s words fit within the larger story of Scripture where God’s people are oriented outward.
Conclusion: The Promise and Peril of Biblical References in Politics
The author provides a summary conclusion that encourages care and humility in the use of Biblical references when applied to politics. Discernment among the Christian community should be part of scriptural interpretation.
The author’s approach seemed to me to be fair and objective, however the fact that I found it acceptable may be an indication that the book has liberal bias. This book promotes in-depth study of a text’s meaning considering its original context and how it interfaces with other parts of scripture. I presume readers who prefer flat and literal interpretations of scriptural text consider this book’s approach to be typically liberal.
Below I have listed chapter titles with a brief summary of their contents. Note that some of the chapter subtitles actually include names of recent American politicians (which makes things more interesting).
1. A City on a Hill: An American Legacy of Puritan Biblical Interpretation
The phrase “The city on a hill” comes from Mathew 5, however John Winthrop used it in a famous 1630 sermon that goes on to claim for American colonies the Biblical promises intended for Israel or the Christian church. Actually the phrase “The city on a hill” was not particularly famous until Ronald Reagan used it in 1970.
2. Submission and Revolution: Romans 13 and American Identity
Loyalists focused on the New Testament while patriots focused on the Old Testament. The debate focused on Romans 13 which advocates submitting to governing authorities. Loyalists said this meant submitting to the King’s authority, but patriots claimed it only applies when the ruler exercises reasonable and just authority.
3. "The Bible through Slave-Holding Spectacles": The Bible in the Civil War
The “curse of Ham” idea from the story of Noah was used by slaveholders in support for a radicalized slavery in America. Slaveholders separated spiritual freedom from earthly freedom to convert slaves to Christianity without freeing them from slavery. Abolitionists claimed universal truth behind an overall message of Bible. Black people applied Biblical narrative, prophecy, and judgement to their own context of slavery.
4. Your Kingdom Come: Social Gospel Hermeneutics
The social gospel came out of liberal theology and inner-city contexts. The social gospel sought to Christianize society by submitting political, economic and social life to Christian principles. Evangelicals focused more on personal conversion, however social concerns were part of their history as well.
5. A Stick of Dynamite: Civil Rights and Scripture
Many civil rights activists were motivated by Biblical passages. The Exodus story in particular was used by M.L. King in his “I have a dream” speech. Segregationists appealed to God’s natural order to enforce hierarchy. White moderates focused on individual sin and separated social justice from the gospel.
6. Magic of the Market: The Hermeneutics of Small Government
Biblical faith became intertwined with conservative economics that advocated for small government and low taxes. Ronald Reagan supported the religious fears of state power as a threat to both the market and Christian church. Reference is made to Ronald Nash who argued that the Bible teaches general ethical principles but science teaches neutral principles of economics. Ronald Sider was a liberal theologian who argued that the Bible calls for social reforms and prioritizes the needs of others.
7. Late Great United States: Biblical Eschatology in the Cold War
Christianity became tied to American nationalism and the fight against atheistic communism. The Late Great Planet Earth by Hal Lindsey popularized dispensational theology that tied contemporary global political events to end time predictions in the Bible.
8. Prayer, Politics, and Personal Faith: George W. Bush's and Barack Obama's Use of Scripture
Barack Obama and George W. Bush were both Christians but used the Bible differently in their political speeches. George W. Bush had a private, personal faith, and his references to it were indirect. Obama used biblical language more directly and articulated his faith more publicly. White evangelicals preferred Bush’s approach (I wonder why).
9. "Give unto Caesar What Is Caesar's": Evangelicals and Trump
Christians supported Donald Trump using a version of two kingdoms theology claiming that “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s” meant that the usual rules didn’t apply in politics. Christian theology applies only the church, family, and community. Christians were not electing a pastor, so traditional Christian values didn’t apply. God didn’t tell Caesar how to rule Rome.
10. Seek the Peace and Prosperity of the City: Jeremiah 29 and Political Theology
Interpretation of Jeremiah 19 where God tells the Israelites to seek the prosperity of their city while in exile has changed over the years depending on the current political context. Augustine used this passage in his two cities approach to political theology which offered comfort for persecuted Church. Calvin made a harsher distinction between the civil and spiritual authorities, and said that God provides a divine commission to the state and thus has obligations for protection and peace which is separate from the duties of spiritual authorities. Contemporary exilic theory is rooted in pacifism, rejection of political power, and prioritizes the social life of the church. This can lead to withdrawing from political engagement altogether. Jeremiah’s words fit within the larger story of Scripture where God’s people are oriented outward.
Conclusion: The Promise and Peril of Biblical References in Politics
The author provides a summary conclusion that encourages care and humility in the use of Biblical references when applied to politics. Discernment among the Christian community should be part of scriptural interpretation.
September 10, 2023
I have really come to appreciate Kaitlyn Schiess' voice on so many things over the past two years. She is intelligent, educated, thoughtful, and well-spoken. This book is a must-read for all Christians as we wrestle with the way our Christianity affects our political ideology and witness in the public square.
October 16, 2023
I think I'm gonna have to go back and read this one again in a different format-- the audiobook was so good but I don't think I absorbed everything.
Anyway, this is an excellent overview of how Scripture has been manipulated in the American political space, as well as instances when it has been used well. Schiess offers suggestions and guidance for removing our politically charged modern lenses when reading the Bible. Her work spans from the founding of America to the modern day; it's really fascinating stuff. And required reading for any Christian trying to make sense of the cultural moment we find ourselves in in the American church.
Anyway, this is an excellent overview of how Scripture has been manipulated in the American political space, as well as instances when it has been used well. Schiess offers suggestions and guidance for removing our politically charged modern lenses when reading the Bible. Her work spans from the founding of America to the modern day; it's really fascinating stuff. And required reading for any Christian trying to make sense of the cultural moment we find ourselves in in the American church.
February 21, 2024
Book Review Rating: 6/10
This book is:
- An insightful survey of how the Bible has been used throughout American history.
- A solid refresher on how to improve how we interpret the Bible.
This book is not:
- The history of how evangelicals came to support the Republican Party or Donald Trump.
- A novel approach to biblical interpretation.
Takeaways:
There are better and worse ways to interpret the Bible. We need to be intentional to not use the Bible to support what we have already decided is true. We must look at the whole Scripture. Then we can synthesize the particulars and the underlying themes in order to apply it to our current situation.
Many people have claimed that their interpretation of the Bible is just the literal reading of the text. No one actually approaches the Bible completely literally. A follower of Jesus who takes the Bible seriously should seek to understand what the Bible actually means. This primarily involves understanding the author's intent, the original audience's interpretation, and the genre of the text. A literal approach to biblical interpretation prioritizes the reader's culturally created framework and biases. A literal approach to reading Scripture also neglects the vital distinction between what is descriptive and what is prescriptive.
Critique:
I agree that God is on the side of the oppressed, but that does not imply the oppressed are able to better interpret the Bible. While it may be true, it isn't consistent to claim that it is wrong for Americans to appropriate the texts about God's blessings and judgement written to Israel and the church but right for Black Americans to appropriate the texts written about the Israelites in the exodus narrative. Schiess does not provide a principle to determine when it is ok and when it is not. I think we should all learn from each other’s perspectives without automatically privileging any one over others.
Click here to read the full review at Faithful Intellect.
This book is:
- An insightful survey of how the Bible has been used throughout American history.
- A solid refresher on how to improve how we interpret the Bible.
This book is not:
- The history of how evangelicals came to support the Republican Party or Donald Trump.
- A novel approach to biblical interpretation.
Takeaways:
There are better and worse ways to interpret the Bible. We need to be intentional to not use the Bible to support what we have already decided is true. We must look at the whole Scripture. Then we can synthesize the particulars and the underlying themes in order to apply it to our current situation.
Many people have claimed that their interpretation of the Bible is just the literal reading of the text. No one actually approaches the Bible completely literally. A follower of Jesus who takes the Bible seriously should seek to understand what the Bible actually means. This primarily involves understanding the author's intent, the original audience's interpretation, and the genre of the text. A literal approach to biblical interpretation prioritizes the reader's culturally created framework and biases. A literal approach to reading Scripture also neglects the vital distinction between what is descriptive and what is prescriptive.
Critique:
I agree that God is on the side of the oppressed, but that does not imply the oppressed are able to better interpret the Bible. While it may be true, it isn't consistent to claim that it is wrong for Americans to appropriate the texts about God's blessings and judgement written to Israel and the church but right for Black Americans to appropriate the texts written about the Israelites in the exodus narrative. Schiess does not provide a principle to determine when it is ok and when it is not. I think we should all learn from each other’s perspectives without automatically privileging any one over others.
Click here to read the full review at Faithful Intellect.
July 22, 2024
I found Kaitlyn Schiess’s first book, The Liturgy of Politics, just okay. It felt like someone still working through some issues from a conservative evangelical upbringing, and so I’m sure it’s helpful for other people going through the same process. In her second book, The Ballot and the Bible, Schiess has found her voice. She covers topics in an engaging, thoughtful way, with good research that introduces the reader to a number of aspects of Christianity’s role in politics. She’s particularly good at explaining why it can be so difficult to apply passages from the Bible to the current political context. She advises Christians not to remove themselves from politics but to become more careful and informed about the Bible, church history, and politics. And chapter by chapter, she models what that kind of engagement looks like. Because a lot of what she says strikes against the attitudes and speech of evangelicals who support Trump, I fear the people who most need this book will not give it their attention. But maybe some of them at least will find their way to The Ballot and the Bible and benefit from it.
As with Schiess’s previous book, I listened to this one on audio. The first book suffered tragically from the worst audiobook reader I’ve heard. Schiess herself reads this one, and that was an excellent choice by the publisher. I’m very glad I could hear this one in Schiess’s voice.
As with Schiess’s previous book, I listened to this one on audio. The first book suffered tragically from the worst audiobook reader I’ve heard. Schiess herself reads this one, and that was an excellent choice by the publisher. I’m very glad I could hear this one in Schiess’s voice.
April 9, 2024
This has been one of the more thought provoking books I’ve read in a while. It really challenged me to look at how Scripture has been utilized throughout US history to justify various laws and political parties claims to power, and how it’s still being manipulated today. The relationship between the church and US government is a lot more complex than I realized. I had so many takeaways from this book! Highly recommend.
March 27, 2024
Schiess is consistently my favorite voice on The Holy Post, and what I appreciate about her continues here: she is a diligent communicator and her scholarship and deep theological care shine through a text covering a complicated history. This is a book that I will both recommend and reread.
October 24, 2023
Where did the whole "city on a hill" thing come from? How did recent Christian presidents speak their beliefs in the public square? What is a political theology and how do we think about such things? Schiess answers all these questions and more in The Ballot and the Bible. I sincerely hope it becomes a conversation starter for folks to develop productive and healthy spaces to converse about politics and Christianity as we hunker down for yet another presidential election season.
Schiess does not go beyond the evangelical fold here with her contemporary examples, and past examples explored at length are the usual suspects (Augustine and Calvin). After auditing a political theology class in seminary, I learned that the field is much broader and more interesting than folks who lived in vastly different political situations than our own. I would have appreciated more breadth in contemporary thinkers that she explores. Additionally, she refers to some fringe movements without properly explaining them in the main text (like Christian Reconstructionism). I feel it would have been better to explained it more or left it out.
Schiess is one of several people in the semi-public square today that present a truly nonpartisan face, which I deeply value as a nonpartisan voter myself. She never uses a negative or positive example from either "side" without offering an equal example from the other "side." This whole book is a project against the horrid narrative, "I don't see how you can call yourself a Christian and vote for _____."* Thank the Lord, from the bottom of my heart. I am sick to death of anyone who equates faith with a political party. For deeply religious nonpartisans like me, I receive that as hypocrisy at best. Schiess is out there doing the hard work of evangelical political theology and I do not envy her that, but appreciate the fruit of her labors.
*Something said to me concerning the 2016 election. The speaker did not know for whom I planned to vote, only for whom I planned not to vote. Lord, have mercy.
Schiess does not go beyond the evangelical fold here with her contemporary examples, and past examples explored at length are the usual suspects (Augustine and Calvin). After auditing a political theology class in seminary, I learned that the field is much broader and more interesting than folks who lived in vastly different political situations than our own. I would have appreciated more breadth in contemporary thinkers that she explores. Additionally, she refers to some fringe movements without properly explaining them in the main text (like Christian Reconstructionism). I feel it would have been better to explained it more or left it out.
Schiess is one of several people in the semi-public square today that present a truly nonpartisan face, which I deeply value as a nonpartisan voter myself. She never uses a negative or positive example from either "side" without offering an equal example from the other "side." This whole book is a project against the horrid narrative, "I don't see how you can call yourself a Christian and vote for _____."* Thank the Lord, from the bottom of my heart. I am sick to death of anyone who equates faith with a political party. For deeply religious nonpartisans like me, I receive that as hypocrisy at best. Schiess is out there doing the hard work of evangelical political theology and I do not envy her that, but appreciate the fruit of her labors.
*Something said to me concerning the 2016 election. The speaker did not know for whom I planned to vote, only for whom I planned not to vote. Lord, have mercy.
August 15, 2023
Critically and thoughtfully researched yet accessibly written, The Ballot and the Bible explores the ways the Bible has been used and misused throughout American history. Schiess investigates key moments from the founding of our country to today while laying out thought-provoking and insightful questions and recommendations for the reader to grapple with. An important primer on political and religious thought in America, Schiess leaves the reader with both tremendous insights and a confident hope. Schiess is a wise theologian and gifted writer we need in this age.
March 28, 2024
This book is too liberal for conservatives and too conservative for liberals which makes it a great book to read ahead of this election cycle. The format follows a revisionist history of the political landscape of America in light of how opposing sides used the Bible to back their views.
While I don’t think this book necessarily answered the question: “where do we go from here?” I do believe it is a great critique on the current landscape of American politics and American biblical exegesis.
While I don’t think this book necessarily answered the question: “where do we go from here?” I do believe it is a great critique on the current landscape of American politics and American biblical exegesis.
March 26, 2024
4.5 stars
This was such an informative book that explored different ways that Christians use the Bible in political debates. Schiess used historical examples of when this happened and the reasons but also looked at different verses in the Bible and explained possible interpretations. I did this as an audiobook and would definitely go back and reread it as a physical book because I’m sure I missed things. Overall it was really interesting and incredibly relevant in the current American political climate.
This was such an informative book that explored different ways that Christians use the Bible in political debates. Schiess used historical examples of when this happened and the reasons but also looked at different verses in the Bible and explained possible interpretations. I did this as an audiobook and would definitely go back and reread it as a physical book because I’m sure I missed things. Overall it was really interesting and incredibly relevant in the current American political climate.
October 11, 2024
This was a very solid look at how the Bible has been leveraged for selfish gain, and occasional good in American politics. Going back as far as the Revolutionary War, up to examining Trump’s presidency, it’s a well-researched and thought-provoking critique of political rhetoric and politicians from both sides of the aisle.
January 21, 2024
This book is not just informative and thoughtful but presents helpful and practical theological tools for engaging thoughtfully and lovingly as a Christian in the political sphere. Worth the read!
August 10, 2023
The Ballot and the Bible is an excellent primer on political theology and the use of the Bible in political contexts. Schiess surveys a variety of examples throughout history to demonstrate both good and bad Biblical hermeneutics. She encourages readers to learn from the examples provided in order to avoid similar mistakes. My favorite chapter was the one on seeking the peace and prosperity of the city, based on Jeremiah 29. This book is a great resource for anyone who seeks to apply the Bible faithfully.
August 25, 2023
While I try not to compare women authors to one another, it is quite perfect how The Ballot and the Bible immediately joins the ranks of The Making of Biblical Womanhood and Jesus and John Wayne for its ability to clearly and powerfully line up how we got where we are because of our history.
Schiess does a wonderful job of presenting various eras of American history and how a spectrum of people used the Bible to prove their own points.
One of my favorite parts of the book was her vulnerability in sharing how she arrived at writing this book— through her own deconstruction and deep thinking. While some would try to say that deconstruction only leads to reading the Bible flippantly (or not at all), Schiess shows another way.
Overall, I think this book is a must read for anyone who wants to be informed as a Christian and take faith and politics seriously.
Schiess does a wonderful job of presenting various eras of American history and how a spectrum of people used the Bible to prove their own points.
One of my favorite parts of the book was her vulnerability in sharing how she arrived at writing this book— through her own deconstruction and deep thinking. While some would try to say that deconstruction only leads to reading the Bible flippantly (or not at all), Schiess shows another way.
Overall, I think this book is a must read for anyone who wants to be informed as a Christian and take faith and politics seriously.
April 14, 2024
Yes, YES, Y👏🏻E👏🏻S!
July 23, 2025
Kaitlyn Schiess offers a thoughtful and well-researched exploration of how Scripture has been used and misused throughout American political history. What I appreciated most about this book was its fair-minded and even-handed tone. Schiess does not fall into the trap of portraying one political camp as the sole abuser of Scripture; rather, she shows with clarity and care how people on both sides of contentious political issues have appealed to the Bible, sometimes with great care and theological insight, and sometimes with distortion and proof-texting. This balanced treatment makes the book a valuable resource for Christians navigating political engagement today.
One of the book’s key strengths is its emphasis on hermeneutics. How we read the Bible is important, not just what passages we quote. Schiess highlights that our assumptions, traditions, and social locations all shape how we interpret Scripture, and she rightly calls for a more faithful and disciplined approach to biblical interpretation in the public square. Her historical examples demonstrate the high stakes of interpretation, and she encourages readers not to detach Scripture from the local church or spiritual formation.
That said, I did find myself questioning a few of the claims that were made, particularly this one: "we should note that the most marginalized and oppressed people were the most able to grasp the meaning of the bible—a text written by marginalized and oppressed people." (pg. 48) While this statement captures the spirit of liberation theology and reflects the historical reality that oppressed communities have often found profound hope and moral clarity in Scripture, it risks overgeneralization. It's one thing to say that marginalized people have often brought fresh or neglected insights to biblical interpretation; it's another to claim they are “most able” to grasp the Bible’s meaning. That seems to downplay the importance of sound exegesis and theological training across diverse contexts. Similarly, the idea that the Bible was written by marginalized and oppressed people is only partially true. Yes, many biblical authors experienced suffering or marginalization (e.g., the prophets, exiled Israelites, early Christians), but others - like royal figures, temple scribes, or the Apostle Paul - wrote from positions of power. A more accurate claim might be that the Bible is consistently concerned with the marginalized, even if not every author was marginalized.
Another quote that raised questions for me was Schiess’s contrast between academic objectivity and Black preaching: "Rather than stepping back from the text and evaluating it from a supposed perspective of objectivity, Black preachers and congregants stepped into scripture." (pg. 84) While the intent here is to honor the lived, experiential approach of Black hermeneutics, it could be read as implying that other interpretive traditions are cold, detached, or inferior. In truth, all faithful Bible readers seek to enter into the text in some way, and good hermeneutics balances reverent engagement with critical reflection. The danger of any interpretive method—whether academic or experiential—is to identify too easily with the righteous in the text while overlooking our own sin.
I also appreciated Schiess’s critique of Donald Trump’s use of the Bible as a prop, particularly in light of the disconnect between his public actions and biblical morality. Yet while I share her concern, the book doesn’t offer much differentiation among other political figures who employ similar tactics. Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden, and Kamala Harris have likewise tipped their caps to Christianity while promoting policies or living in ways that often contradict Christian ethics. Schiess is right to warn us about this kind of performative religiosity. However, without a consistent standard for evaluating all public figures, it’s hard to see why Trump is singled out while others are treated as unremarkable.
Overall, The Ballot and the Bible is a timely, important, and challenging read. I highly recommend it for Christians who want to think more biblically about politics.
One of the book’s key strengths is its emphasis on hermeneutics. How we read the Bible is important, not just what passages we quote. Schiess highlights that our assumptions, traditions, and social locations all shape how we interpret Scripture, and she rightly calls for a more faithful and disciplined approach to biblical interpretation in the public square. Her historical examples demonstrate the high stakes of interpretation, and she encourages readers not to detach Scripture from the local church or spiritual formation.
That said, I did find myself questioning a few of the claims that were made, particularly this one: "we should note that the most marginalized and oppressed people were the most able to grasp the meaning of the bible—a text written by marginalized and oppressed people." (pg. 48) While this statement captures the spirit of liberation theology and reflects the historical reality that oppressed communities have often found profound hope and moral clarity in Scripture, it risks overgeneralization. It's one thing to say that marginalized people have often brought fresh or neglected insights to biblical interpretation; it's another to claim they are “most able” to grasp the Bible’s meaning. That seems to downplay the importance of sound exegesis and theological training across diverse contexts. Similarly, the idea that the Bible was written by marginalized and oppressed people is only partially true. Yes, many biblical authors experienced suffering or marginalization (e.g., the prophets, exiled Israelites, early Christians), but others - like royal figures, temple scribes, or the Apostle Paul - wrote from positions of power. A more accurate claim might be that the Bible is consistently concerned with the marginalized, even if not every author was marginalized.
Another quote that raised questions for me was Schiess’s contrast between academic objectivity and Black preaching: "Rather than stepping back from the text and evaluating it from a supposed perspective of objectivity, Black preachers and congregants stepped into scripture." (pg. 84) While the intent here is to honor the lived, experiential approach of Black hermeneutics, it could be read as implying that other interpretive traditions are cold, detached, or inferior. In truth, all faithful Bible readers seek to enter into the text in some way, and good hermeneutics balances reverent engagement with critical reflection. The danger of any interpretive method—whether academic or experiential—is to identify too easily with the righteous in the text while overlooking our own sin.
I also appreciated Schiess’s critique of Donald Trump’s use of the Bible as a prop, particularly in light of the disconnect between his public actions and biblical morality. Yet while I share her concern, the book doesn’t offer much differentiation among other political figures who employ similar tactics. Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden, and Kamala Harris have likewise tipped their caps to Christianity while promoting policies or living in ways that often contradict Christian ethics. Schiess is right to warn us about this kind of performative religiosity. However, without a consistent standard for evaluating all public figures, it’s hard to see why Trump is singled out while others are treated as unremarkable.
Overall, The Ballot and the Bible is a timely, important, and challenging read. I highly recommend it for Christians who want to think more biblically about politics.
October 24, 2023
4.5 stars!!
Thought-provoking and timely exploration of the relationship between culture, politics, and biblical interpretation. In the complex terrain of American Christian political engagement, Schiess offers a compelling, well-researched, and balanced account.
“If Christians want to have our politics informed by the Bible, we should not misrepresent ourselves in public by pretending we came to our positions apart from the Bible. Instead of treating the Bible like a trump card that invalidates all other positions or invoking divine support of our specific policies, we can faithfully engage in public with our own convictions and compassion for others who think differently.” 😯 Okay HEARD!
Schiess is brilliant--equipped in biblical hermeneutics and theological interpretation in addition to being well-educated on American political theory and social history. But what makes this book brilliant, are the lessons extracted from polarizing moments in American history. Schiess compares and contrasts the biblical interpretations and scriptural justification held by opposing political groups such as: patriots/ loyalists, slaveholders/ abolitionists, segregationists/ Civil rights activists, capitalists/ socialists, Bush 43 / Obama, etc. (My favorite historical comparison she makes is the confluence of dispensational premillennialist eschatology and the Cold War!)
Although I don’t agree with every political ideology presented by the author, I appreciate her genuine commitment to encouraging a deeper, more nuanced engagement with scripture in the realm of politics. By outlining core biblical themes (like power, allegiance, national identity, sacrifice, righteousness, justice, love, hope, and holiness), readers are encouraged to engage in political discourse with compassion, confidence, and humility(!!!!!!!), rather than seeking to impose a singular, predetermined ideology.
Schiess' focus on promoting humility and introspection within the Christian community is a refreshing departure from the partisan political climate. She highlights the confirmation bias often present in the intersection of religion and politics, emphasizing the need for Christians to consider the possibility of being wrong. This book is a call for Christians to align their political beliefs with a deeper understanding of what God has accomplished through Jesus Christ.
Thought-provoking and timely exploration of the relationship between culture, politics, and biblical interpretation. In the complex terrain of American Christian political engagement, Schiess offers a compelling, well-researched, and balanced account.
“If Christians want to have our politics informed by the Bible, we should not misrepresent ourselves in public by pretending we came to our positions apart from the Bible. Instead of treating the Bible like a trump card that invalidates all other positions or invoking divine support of our specific policies, we can faithfully engage in public with our own convictions and compassion for others who think differently.” 😯 Okay HEARD!
Schiess is brilliant--equipped in biblical hermeneutics and theological interpretation in addition to being well-educated on American political theory and social history. But what makes this book brilliant, are the lessons extracted from polarizing moments in American history. Schiess compares and contrasts the biblical interpretations and scriptural justification held by opposing political groups such as: patriots/ loyalists, slaveholders/ abolitionists, segregationists/ Civil rights activists, capitalists/ socialists, Bush 43 / Obama, etc. (My favorite historical comparison she makes is the confluence of dispensational premillennialist eschatology and the Cold War!)
Although I don’t agree with every political ideology presented by the author, I appreciate her genuine commitment to encouraging a deeper, more nuanced engagement with scripture in the realm of politics. By outlining core biblical themes (like power, allegiance, national identity, sacrifice, righteousness, justice, love, hope, and holiness), readers are encouraged to engage in political discourse with compassion, confidence, and humility(!!!!!!!), rather than seeking to impose a singular, predetermined ideology.
Schiess' focus on promoting humility and introspection within the Christian community is a refreshing departure from the partisan political climate. She highlights the confirmation bias often present in the intersection of religion and politics, emphasizing the need for Christians to consider the possibility of being wrong. This book is a call for Christians to align their political beliefs with a deeper understanding of what God has accomplished through Jesus Christ.
September 14, 2023
Whether you love politics or will do anything to avoid them, this book has something for you. “The Ballot and the Bible'' explores the way that scripture has been used in politics throughout history all the way up into the present. Schiess’s analysis is nuanced and avoids putting things into boxes based on if the person using the scripture was “on the right side of history.” There are clear examples of people who used scripture wrongly, those who had good intentions but not great hermeneutics, and those who used scripture to faithfully advocate for political change. The history in the book helps break down some of our preconceived notions and prepares the reader to get into the messier arena of current politics where our own biases are stronger.
Schiess’s book works on multiple levels: it’s a history, it encourages readers to question politicians who use scripture (no matter what party they are in), and it challenges readers to examine the way they use scripture as well. Since 2020 things have been politically charged in America, and both sides have been using biblical language or verses out of context to support their side. I have. I’m sure you have too. We can do better. This book is a great introduction to finding a way to interact with politics faithfully.
Schiess’s book works on multiple levels: it’s a history, it encourages readers to question politicians who use scripture (no matter what party they are in), and it challenges readers to examine the way they use scripture as well. Since 2020 things have been politically charged in America, and both sides have been using biblical language or verses out of context to support their side. I have. I’m sure you have too. We can do better. This book is a great introduction to finding a way to interact with politics faithfully.
September 14, 2024
I first learned of Kaitlyn Schiess when she was featured as a guest on a podcast I listen to. She was so kind and well-spoken that when she mentioned this book, I bought it immediately. It’s not an fluffy read. I took a month to read it (and over 20 pages of notes) because there was so much I wanted to hold onto and dig deeper into.
Foundationally, this book is a look through America’s history — from the Puritains to current events — and how the Bible has been used in politics. However, it’s much deeper than that.
Schiess points out the many forces that are at play in shaping how we interpret Scripture — our culture, our church communities, our biases, and our politics. She encourages listening to other voices and doing the hard work of digging into and challenging what influences our understanding of Scripture. After all, we are imperfect and flawed beings; we should approach God’s Word with humility and a willingness to accept that there may be times we don’t understand God’s Word correctly. Thankfully, we serve a God who is not flawed, who desires to help us understand Him better. “We will fail and falter in our interpretations, but God will not falter or fail us” (Schiess, pg. 181).
Foundationally, this book is a look through America’s history — from the Puritains to current events — and how the Bible has been used in politics. However, it’s much deeper than that.
Schiess points out the many forces that are at play in shaping how we interpret Scripture — our culture, our church communities, our biases, and our politics. She encourages listening to other voices and doing the hard work of digging into and challenging what influences our understanding of Scripture. After all, we are imperfect and flawed beings; we should approach God’s Word with humility and a willingness to accept that there may be times we don’t understand God’s Word correctly. Thankfully, we serve a God who is not flawed, who desires to help us understand Him better. “We will fail and falter in our interpretations, but God will not falter or fail us” (Schiess, pg. 181).
January 6, 2024
Super helpful and timely book. Examines how scripture has been used for political ends throughout history both legitimately and illegitimately. I believe the author does a good job of staying neutral of any political “side” and ultimately calls Christians to think deeply about what we let affect our interpretation or understanding of scripture by highlighting some of the commonly used texts throughout political history. I also appreciated the pushback on two kingdoms theology and the encouragement to think deeply about how following Jesus affects all areas of life.
May 24, 2025
I’ve admired Kaitlyn’s intellect ever since I first started listening to her. She consistently challenges me to read the Bible more faithfully and engage with the culture I live in more compassionately. I loved a lot of specific chapters in this book. Others didn’t really connect with me. The topics are broken out really well. It does get pretty dense and I had a tendency to zone out while listening. This book probably is best consumed by buying a hard copy and reading it slowly than through audio.
October 11, 2023
By providing the words of individuals on both political spectrums, Katelyn Schiess lays out how Scripture has been used and abused, while challenging readers to confront their own preconceived ideas when reading Scripture. Heavy to read at times, this books still flows with hope, caring for readers in despair and on the verge of leaving conversations on faith and politics with a tone of conviction and humility. This book should be required reading for all American Christians.
January 14, 2025
Overall, I really appreciated this book. It took me a long time to read because I intentionally wanted to soak things in and process as I read, especially in light of starting it before the 2024 election and finishing it after.
I found the first two thirds of the book quite captivating - some of the content was familiar to me from other reading and study, but with a more academic voice to it. The last third, for me, was a slog. I don’t know if I was expecting a more climactic ending or some sort of bigger culmination to where we are now (politically and theologically speaking) but it felt just a tad disappointing.
I found the first two thirds of the book quite captivating - some of the content was familiar to me from other reading and study, but with a more academic voice to it. The last third, for me, was a slog. I don’t know if I was expecting a more climactic ending or some sort of bigger culmination to where we are now (politically and theologically speaking) but it felt just a tad disappointing.
Want to read
September 21, 2023While this might be good…and some of it seemed interesting…was definitely having a hard time getting into it and I really tried for the last week. Going to set it aside and maybe I’ll try again another time. Currently giving it a DNF with no rating. Not sure if it was the book or just need something else at this moment.
September 18, 2024
Kaitlyn Schiess has given me a lot to ruminate on with this book. It has been incredibly interesting to hear about different ways the Bible has been interpreted in American history. The ending left me hopeful and encouraged.
August 14, 2023
This book gives an excellent perspective on how the Bible has been used in American politics and how that has shaped and is shaped by the American identity. I found the description of modern America as a nation "haunted" by the Bible and biblical language especially apt. The conclusion really nailed the explanation for why so much of the use of the Bible in the public square is so bad. I highly recommend. I only wish the book was longer.
April 14, 2024
This book gave me much to think about when it comes to politics, the Bible, and how our politicians use references to Scripture to influence people.
August 20, 2024
Did I agree with everything? No
Did I fully understand everything? No
Did it make me think - particularly about how I read the Bible and how the Bible was used in historical context throughout American history? Yes and yes
A dense read for the start of the school year, but always grateful for text that really makes me think.
3.5⭐️
Did I fully understand everything? No
Did it make me think - particularly about how I read the Bible and how the Bible was used in historical context throughout American history? Yes and yes
A dense read for the start of the school year, but always grateful for text that really makes me think.
3.5⭐️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 344 reviews