Will churches be united before and during the election period?

Editor: It is certainly not too early to think about the following matter. During past election times, it has been noticed by churchgoers and by the public in general that the churches get divided.{{more}}

Often, persons belonging to the same church, who were very good friends, become enemies, in some cases worst enemies. Persons supporting a particular political party sit on one side and persons supporting another political party sit on the OTHER side in church. Really, how could one claim to love God, but develop hatred for his/her brother or sister during an election period? Please read 1 John 2:9 – 11 and 1 John 4:8, 20. Based on these Scriptures, a person cannot be loving God while hating his brother or sister during election time, or any other time for that matter.

Furthermore, 1 John 3:10 – 12, 15 points out that if a person hates his brother/sister, he/she will be viewed as a murderer and a child of the Devil in God’s eyes. Does anyone of us want God to view us that way? When the Prime Minister makes the statement: “I am Prime Minister for everybody, regardless of political affiliation, race, religion etc,” do we shout, “NO! Don’t give this/that group of persons any job, food, galvanize, or any help whatsoever” due to their political affiliation? Would persons supporting the Opposition party say the same if their Leader were to make a similar statement as the Prime Minister, should he (Opposition Leader) get in office? These are things that happen, as we know quite well.

So, as election approaches, will we be examining ourselves and prepare to be loving at ALL times, trying to be Christlike, or will we continue to develop hatred for our fellow church members who support a political party different from ours? Jesus stated at John 13:35 that his TRUE disciples are identified by love. (1 Peter 2:17) Can we ever be TRUE disciples of Christ if we hate our brothers for any reason? It is up to each one of us to prove whether or not we are trying to be children of God or of the Devil? (1 John 3:10) How wise it is to think deeply on this matter and act in harmony with God’s Word as election approaches and at other times too!

Very Sobering Thoughts!