Of all places, I heard an interview of CNN anchor and journalist, Jake Tapper, on a sports podcast a few weeks ago. He said some things that I found compelling as an American navigating the political climate of 2025. Futhermore, as I have prayed and meditated on some of these things as a Christ-follower, I have increasing felt burdened by some of the actions I've seen from the church.
Political divisions in America have become so intense that many can no longer see the humanity in those who hold different views. As Jake Tapper noted on the podcast, “People always make the worst possible interpretation of what the other side is doing. It’s distressing because I don’t think it’s rooted in reality. Most Americans (don't want to live divisively) deep down and are not that in their hearts.” However, division seems to be consistently growing like a weed in our current times.
The bitterness and hostility that mark modern political discourse are not just political problems—they are spiritual ones. For Christians, the way forward is not about winning arguments or gaining power, but about reflecting Christ in a world deeply in need of His love.
The Danger of Division
Division is not new. The Apostle Paul warned against factions and quarreling in the early church (1 Corinthians 1:10), urging believers to be “united in the same mind and the same judgment.” Yet today, Christians are often caught in the same culture of outrage as the rest of society. Social media, cable news, and political rhetoric fuel a narrative that paints the other side as enemies rather than fellow human beings created in God’s image.
This division can harden our hearts, leading us to view political opponents not as neighbors to love (Mark 12:31) but as threats to defeat. When we demonize others, we ignore Jesus’ command to love even our enemies (Matthew 5:44). Instead of seeking understanding, we assume the worst about those who think differently.
The Christian Call to Unity and Love
As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). This does not mean ignoring political issues or avoiding difficult conversations. Rather, it means engaging with humility, grace, and a commitment to truth. The Apostle Paul reminds us, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all” (Romans 12:18).
Living peaceably does not mean compromising biblical convictions, but it does mean rejecting the spirit of contempt that pervades political discourse. It means listening before judging, seeking common ground where possible, and refusing to participate in slander and division.
The Hope Beyond Politics
While political leaders and policies matter, they are not our ultimate hope. As Christ-followers, we believe that the ultimate solution is not found in a party or ideology but in Christ. Our mission is to reflect His love, justice, and truth in a world desperate for something deeper than politics.
We are not called to conform to the patterns of this world (Romans 12:2) but to be transformed by Christ, shining as lights in the darkness (Philippians 2:15). In a culture of division, the Church has a unique opportunity to model a different way—one of love, humility, and hope.
The challenge is clear, but so is the calling. Will we allow the world to shape our hearts with division and hostility, or will we follow the example of Christ, who calls us to unity, love, and grace? The choice is ours.
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