But what would you say if the nation was listening to your answers about faith?
This election year is a valuable time to pay attention to national matters, but it is also a great moment for personal reflection. You may never become a presidential candidate, but if you are a follower of Jesus Christ, then you are a witness to His Good News, no matter your job or social position.
Below are edited versions of five questions that presidential candidates were asked recently. Study each question, see our suggested thinking points, do some digging of your own, and think about how you would respond to these questions in an open forum:
1. What do you believe about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
THE BIBLE SAYS …
[Jesus said,] “I and the Father are one.” –John 10:30
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever–the Spirit of truth.” –John 14:16
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. –Deuteronomy 6:4
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” –Matthew 28:19
RELATED LINKS:
Read an explanation of the Trinity »
I think Jesus was one of the greatest men who ever lived, but why did people decide to believe that Jesus also was God? Read Billy Graham’s answer »
2. Some important issues worldwide are Darfur, Sudan; the environment; and torture. What are your first principles when addressing these issues?
Caring for those who suffer in Darfur, Sudan:
THE BIBLE SAYS …
‘I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ … ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ –Matthew 25:35-36,40
Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God … made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant … –Philippians 2:4-8
RELATED LINKS:
A Lost Boy of Sudan tells his story of survival and faith. Read his story, and learn about Darfur »
The Character of Christ: From the beginning of His earthly ministry Jesus demonstrated a passion for justice. Read more »
I get newsletters from several groups that try to help suffering people in other countries. I know there are a lot of hurting people in the world, but I’m on a fixed income. What good would my few dollars do anyway? Read Billy Graham’s answer »
Caring for the environment:
THE BIBLE SAYS …
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. –1 Corinthians 10:26
RELATED LINKS:
Does the Bible say anything about taking care of the environment? Read Billy Graham’s answer »
Learning to Treat God’s Creation with Respect »
How to treat enemies:
THE BIBLE SAYS …
You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. –Matthew 5:43-44
RELATED LINKS:
A minister brings Christ’s love to prisoners in Guinea. Read more »
What do you think is the greatest social problem in the world today? Whatever it is, do you think churches should be doing anything about it, or is it best left to governments? Read Billy Graham’s answer »
3. Do you believe that life begins at conception?
THE BIBLE SAYS …
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I set you apart. –Jeremiah 1:5a
RELATED LINKS:
I’m single and pregnant and do not know what to do. I’ll probably get an abortion. Read Billy Graham’s answer »
Does God give us a soul when we are born, or at some later time? Read Billy Graham’s answer »
4. What should we do about AIDS?
THE BIBLE SAYS …
This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.’ –Zechariah 7:9
RELATED LINKS:
Watch a video and follow a guide to pray for victims of the AIDS pandemic »
I heard a preacher say the other day that Christians need to respond to the AIDS crisis by helping people with AIDS (especially in places like Africa). But why should we? Read Billy Graham’s answer »
5. Why does a loving God allow suffering?
THE BIBLE SAYS …
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. –2 Corinthians 1:3-4
RELATED LINKS:
Why Does God Allow Suffering? Read a message by Billy Graham »
If God Exists, Why Is There Evil? Read article »
This past year has been a horrible one for my family and me–financial reverses, a lost job, illnesses, you name it. How can I keep looking up when so much has gone wrong? Read Billy Graham’s answer »
I do not agree with people like you who say God loves us, because I do not see any evidence for it. Just look at all the wars in the world, or all the other terrible things that happen. Read Billy Graham’s answer »
