I read with interest a report into Christopher Luxon’s maiden speech in Parliament. Luxon shows concern that people who are Christians are seen as extreme. He seems keen to show the positives of his faith. He is quoted saying, “It [Christianity] has anchored me, given my life purpose and shaped my values – and it puts me in the context of something bigger than myself,” This is noble and helpful. If more politicians understood that there was something bigger than themselves we would be in a far better position. Anyone who acknowledges there is a king above them to whom they must give an account is on far safer ground than those who deny God and cosmic justice.
However, he seems to misunderstand other aspects of the Christian faith. He says, “I see Jesus showing compassion, tolerance and care for others. He doesn’t judge, discriminate or reject people. He loves unconditionally.” While there is an element of truth here, in that Jesus said, “I did not come to judge the world but to save the world,” he also said, “The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day.”
Furthermore, he seems greatly confused about the role of faith in politics. On the one hand, he highlights the role of Christianity in fighting injustice when he acknowledges William Wilberforce, but he goes on to claim that his faith is personal. He says of his faith, “It is not in itself a political agenda. I believe no religion should dictate to the state. And no politician should use the political platform they have to force their beliefs on others.” Well, which is it? Will your faith impact the decisions and actions you take as one of the leaders of our country, or will they have no influence? How can our worldview and faith not impact our politics? Do you think the religious beliefs of men like Stalin and Hitler had no bearing on their political actions? Do you think that our current government does not let their godless beliefs impact their agenda in issues like euthanasia, child sacrifice abortion and the economy? Of course, your faith beliefs and presuppositions are going to impact your politics. If Christ is indeed king, own that and have the courage to say that you will act in a way that acknowledges his kingship and do all in your power to see him honoured for who he is. Otherwise, you are living as a member of another religion.