LESSON: TWENTY THREE (23)
DATE: SUNDAY FEBRUARY 8TH 2026
TOPIC: CHRISTIANS AND POLITICS: CHANGING THE NARRATIVES
SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
- O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?
MEMORY VERSE: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.”–Proverbs 29:2 (NKJV).
BIBLE PASSAGE: ECCLESIASTES 10:5-7.
[5]There is an evil I have seen under the sun, As an error proceeding from the ruler:
[6]Folly is set in great dignity, While the rich sit in a lowly place.
[7]I have seen servants on horses, While princes walk on the ground like servants.
INTRODUCTION
The role of Christians in politics has long been debated. Many believe that Christians should not engage in political matters, often concluding that involvement could jeopardise their spiritual journey. In this lesson, we will explore the wrong perceptions about Christians in politics, put in focus the correct perspective, and emphasise the importance of a Christian’s involvement. Our goal is to encourage Christians to be both heavenly-focused and earthly-relevant.
TEXT REVIEW: ECCLESIASTES 10:5-7
The Preacher did not hide his feelings about the evil he observed under the sun ……….. V5.
Read verses 6 and 7 and relate them to Christians’ disposition to politics.
i. ……………………………………….
ii. ………………………………………
iii. ……………………………………..
iv. ………………………………………
LESSON OUTLINES
- CORRECTING WRONG PERCEPTIONS
- POLITICAL LEADERS IN THE BIBLE
CORRECTING WRONG PERCEPTIONS
Some of the common negative views about politics that discourage many believers from being involved include:
- Politics is dirty and corrupt. It is often said that politics is inherently dirty, leading many to believe that anyone involved in it cannot be pure.
Right Perspective: This notion is far from the truth. Politics itself is not inherently dirty; it usually reflects the character of its participants (Titus 1:15).
- Politics is not meant for Christians.
Right Perspective: This belief is another fallacy that contradicts the biblical mandate found in Proverbs 29:2, which affirms the importance of the involvement of ‘the righteous’ in governance. Allowing ‘the wicked’ to lead the righteous is both a potential error and danger (Ecclesiastes 10:5-7; Revelation 5:10).
- Only dishonest people engage in politics.
Right Perspective: This misconception highlights the urgent need for participation of Christians. We cannot afford to leave politics and leadership in the hands of those who do not fear God (Proverbs 1:29; 8:13; 16:17). It is unrealistic to expect righteousness from the unrighteous (Matthew 7:16-18).
- Politicians are naturally untrustworthy.
Right Perspective: Believing that all politicians are untrustworthy is a costly assumption. This mindset contributes to our irrelevance in shaping the affairs and conduct of our nation. As Christians, we must challenge this perception by actively engaging in the political process. Christians should set an agenda for society, as instructed in Matthew 5:14-16.
CLASS ACTIVITY 1
Have you tried to join politics? Share your experiences with the class
POLITICAL LEADERS IN THE BIBLE
The following biblical characters exemplify the integration of spiritual and political leadership, showcasing how faith and governance can work together for the benefit of their communities:
- Moses– A prophet, leader and lawgiver. He led the Israelites out of Egypt and received the Ten Commandments from God (Exodus 3:10-12; 20:1-17).
- David– A shepherd, warrior, and the second king of Israel. He was known for his leadership, military prowess, and deep relationship with God (1 Samuel 16:11-13; 2 Samuel 5:1-5).
- Deborah– A Judge, prophetess and leader of Israel. She exemplified boldness at a tumultuous time in Israel (Judges 4:4-15).
- Nehemiah– The cupbearer to the king of Persia who later became a governor. He led the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, demonstrating strong leadership and faith (Nehemiah 1:1-4; 2:17-18; 5:14).
- Esther– A Jewish queen of Persia who showed great courage in advocating for her people, demonstrating both political influence and spiritual leadership (Esther 4:14; Esther 5:1-2).
- Daniel– A high-ranking official in the Babylonian and Persian empires, known for his unwavering faith in God and his ability to interpret dreams (Daniel 2:48-49; Daniel 6:10).
- Joseph– An Israelite who rose to power in Egypt and served as a Prime Minister/deputy to the king. He interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams and saved nations from famine (Genesis 41:46-49; 53-57; Genesis 45:7-8).
CLASS ACTIVITY 2
Mention a political leader worthy of note in our time.
CONCLUSION
Engaging in politics is not just a duty but also a vital aspect of our witness and influence as followers of Christ.
CLOSING PRAYER
God, give me the courage to play an active part in my nation.
ASSIGNMENT
Mention five political leaders in the Bible (2×5=10 Marks).
