Was Jesus a religious or political martyr? Before the Sanhedrin, He remained silent until He was asked if He was “the Christ, the Son of God” (Mt. 26:63). His bold confession led to a violent conviction of blasphemy with an accompanying sentence of death (vss. 64-68). However, being of a religious nature, the charge of blasphemy would not stand in a Roman court. Therefore, the charge against Jesus was changed from an act of blasphemy to an act of sedition. As confirmed by the sign placed above His head at the cross, He was charged with making Himself out to be the king of the Jews (Jn. 19:19-22). As Jesus stood before the judgment seat of Pilate, their conversation centered around the question: “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm” (John 18:36). Although first-century Christians were accused of turning “the world upside down” (Acts 17:6), they were not part of a political but a spiritual movement. Jesus came to bring peace with God; but, in the process of dying for our sins, He put to death the enmity that existed between warring factions (Eph. 2:13-18).
For years, we have been told not to mix religion and politics. But, there is no verse that expresses these sentiments in the Bible. As Christians, faith touches every aspect of life, including politics. Regardless of political party, aligning ourselves with those who most closely represent our values is a moral responsibility. However, our greater duty lies in helping others find peace with Christ. Therefore, our focus must be on “seeking things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Col. 3:1). This is where our true citizenship and allegiance belongs (Ph. 3:20). When persecution comes, let it be because we have taken a spiritual rather than a political stand. Although political and moral values often intertwine, keep in mind that Christianity is inherently peaceful, but very powerful. Without armed revolt or violent protests, early Christians changed the culture of the first-century world through their passionate faith in a martyred, but risen Savior.
— Glen Elliott —