Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Voting, in the modern sense, refers to the act of making a choice or decision in an election or other decision-making process. While the Bible does not explicitly mention voting as it is understood today, the principles of leadership selection, communal decision-making, and the exercise of wisdom and discernment are present throughout the Scriptures. Biblical Principles Related to Voting: 1. Leadership Selection: The Bible provides several examples of selecting leaders, which can be seen as a precursor to modern voting. In the Old Testament, leaders were often chosen by God or through a process of casting lots, which was believed to reflect divine will. For instance, in 1 Samuel 10:20-24, Saul is chosen as king through a process that involved casting lots. Similarly, in Acts 1:23-26, the apostles cast lots to select Matthias as a replacement for Judas Iscariot. 2. Wisdom and Discernment: The Bible emphasizes the importance of wisdom and discernment in making decisions. Proverbs 3:21-23 states, "My son, do not lose sight of this: Preserve sound judgment and discernment. They will be life to your soul and adornment to your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble." This principle can be applied to voting, as believers are encouraged to seek wisdom and guidance from God when making choices that affect their communities and nations. 3. Justice and Righteousness: The Bible calls for justice and righteousness in leadership and governance. Proverbs 29:2 says, "When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan." This underscores the responsibility of believers to support leaders who uphold justice and righteousness, which can be expressed through the act of voting. 4. Participation in Governance: While the Bible does not directly address democratic participation, it does encourage believers to be active in their communities and to seek the welfare of the city. Jeremiah 29:7 instructs, "Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper." This can be interpreted as a call to engage in civic duties, including voting, to promote the common good. 5. Submission to Authority: Romans 13:1-2 teaches, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage highlights the importance of respecting and participating in the systems of governance established in society, which can include voting as a means of influencing those in authority. Historical and Cultural Considerations: In biblical times, the concept of voting as practiced in modern democracies did not exist. Leadership was often hereditary, divinely appointed, or determined by other means such as casting lots. However, the principles of communal decision-making and the selection of leaders through collective input can be seen in various biblical narratives. Application for Believers: For contemporary Christians, voting is an opportunity to exercise stewardship over the political process and to influence the direction of their communities and nations in accordance with biblical values. By participating in elections, believers can help ensure that leaders who uphold justice, righteousness, and godly principles are placed in positions of authority. Topical Bible Verses Romans 13:1-14Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Topicalbible.org Hebrews 13:7 Hebrews 13:8 Greek 5586. psephos -- a small smooth stone, a pebble ... psephos Phonetic Spelling: (psay'-fos) Short Definition: a pebble, a vote Definition: (a) a pebble, small stone, (b) hence, from their use in voting: a vote. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5586.htm - 7k Library Not Wishing to Overload this Long Essay with Too Many Parentheses. ... No Ballot-Box. In Charging Basil with not Defending his Faith at the Time of the ... It is by all Means Proper that a Bishop Should be Appointed by all ... Later History of Revision. Drunkenness. The Burning of Hus. But, Indeed, with this Educational Matter I must of Necessity ... Particular Election Presbyterian Proposals of Union. -- Resources What is the National Baptist Convention USA? | GotQuestions.orgWhat occurred at the Council of Nicea? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that all have sinned? | GotQuestions.org Voted: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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