The Distinction Between Christian Duty and Civic Duty
As Christians, we sometimes wrestle with our responsibilities both to our faith and to the societies in which we live. Among the many discussions surrounding civic engagement, one of the debated topics is that of voting. Many say that voting is a Christian duty; however, a deeper study reveals that while voting carries significant civic importance, it should not be confused with our fundamental Christian duties. At its core, being a Christian involves a commitment to loving God and loving others. Jesus summarized the essence of our faith in two commandments: to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). These commandments guide our actions and interactions in everyday life, influencing how we treat others, how we practice forgiveness, and how we operate in our communities. Our primary duty as Christians is to exemplify love and service. This involves not just feeling compassion but actively engaging in acts o...