Politics, Liberal Theology, and the Gospel.
- Osayi
- Sep 2
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 4
What shapes your worldview?
In a world of competing worldviews, Politics and Theology can be divisive topics. While navigating their intersection may not seem particularly inviting, it may be of value to recognize the ways they are interconnected. Before delving into it, I feel it’s important to provide some nuance. Politics, theology, and the way we interact with both are deeply personal matters. It’s easy to assume that a person's political leanings are a clear reflection of their beliefs and values, but this isn’t always the case.
It's entirely possible for someone to lean more liberal politically yet hold a traditional, Biblical view. They may prioritize certain values expressed through liberal policies such as equality and justice, while still adhering to biblical principles. Similarly, a person who leans conservative politically may have a poor grasp of Biblical teachings, despite identifying with conservative ideals.
In other words, a vote doesn't always tell the full story.
Example:
A person may choose to vote Democrat because they believe in the value of human life, as expressed through the equal and equitable treatment of all people regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Conversely, another person may vote Republican because they see the value of human life reflected in anti-abortion policies, which they deem of greater significance.
Perhaps both individuals share a common belief in the authoritative Word of God and regard all people-whether the unborn in the womb or the elderly-as equal in value and deserving of dignity, respect, and unconditional love.
Our political system doesn't always allow us to fully express our worldview through our vote. We're presented with options, and we choose the one that aligns best with our personal values. So, it seems unwise to quickly judge others based on how they vote, rather than understanding why they voted that way and what they believe about the world and others.
Key Point:
A person’s political leaning doesn’t always reveal the whole picture pertaining to their values, character, or theology. A history and lifestyle is often more telling.
With that in mind, it's also important to note that without discernment we can elevate politics to the level of scripture. Scripture may inform our politics but politics should not inform our scripture.
This is an important distinction. While politics may offer us a platform to advocate for justice, benevolence, and effective governance, the foundation of our beliefs must remain grounded in the timeless Word of God, not swayed by the fluctuating currents of political agendas. That being said, the influence of liberalism extends beyond the political realm and has gained increasing influence within theology which bears our careful attention.
Liberal Politics vs. Liberal Theology
Liberal politics and Liberal theology are not one and the same.
Liberal Politics refers to political ideologies that emphasize individual autonomy, equality, and justice in governing decisions. Whereas, Liberal Theology, as summarized by Andrew Hoffecker (Liberal Theology, 2020), refers to theological, Biblical, and philosophical views that originated during the time of Enlightenment. This period saw traditional doctrines being replaced by modern, subjective reasoning and experiences, resulting in a theology that often seeks to adapt the Bible to contemporary culture.
A person holding liberal theological views may:
Believe that the Bible must adapt in order to remain relevant in a modern context.
Prioritize social justice and reform over Gospel proclamation.
Give less reverence to the Bible's authority and inerrancy.
From the liberal theological perspective, the Bible is seen through the lens of culture, and therefore is constantly adapting to stay relevant.
The Caution
If the Bible is always changing, can it truly be trusted as inerrant? If we must interpret it through an ever-evolving cultural lens, how can we ever fully understand its message?
Liberal theology can undermine the Bible's consistency, leading to confusion and division among its readers. Ultimately, it replaces Biblical authority with human authority.
Can Liberal Theology Find Its Place?
While I believe Liberal theology offers a valuable perspective, particularly in shedding light on practical aspects of faith, it risks undermining Biblical integrity.
Liberal theology’s emphasis on social justice and societal reform, similar to the "Social Gospel" movement of the early 20th century, is in many ways a response to the injustice, poverty, and suffering of its time. In that sense, it offers value in urging the church to take frontline action on real-world problems.
However, when priority shifts to social and political reform apart from, or above the authority of scripture, Liberal theology risks undermining the foundational truth of the Bible. In blending unbiblical philosophies with the Gospel, it creates interpretations that are more shaped by human reasoning than by divine revelation, ultimately, it dilutes the core message of Christianity.
A Biblical Perspective in Light of Liberal Theology
The Bible is clear, we are to care for people, that includes the poor, marginalized, and mistreated. This truth is woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments, and it is summed up in God’s law: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Scripture teaches that love is an action, demonstrated through tangible acts of kindness, justice, and mercy (Luke 10:27; 1 Cor 13:1-5; John 13:35; Matthew 25:31-40; Isaiah 1:17; Matthew 28:18-19). Those who know God will reflect His heart for others.
Jesus exemplified this love in His life and ministry through His compassionate and sacrificial care for humanity. Yet, it must be stated that He did not come as a social reformer or political advocate. While His teachings were revolutionary, His ultimate mission was to redeem sinners from eternal separation from God (John 12:47; John 3:16).
Jesus' primary mission was to bring about a "spiritual reformation" that reconciled sinners to their Heavenly Father. Yet, His countercultural teachings and miraculous acts led to profound global reform that still influences societies and institutions today. This was not a mere accident or an unintended consequence. Rather, it reveals a significant truth: True and lasting reform is a natural result of embracing Biblical truth and the transformative work of God’s Spirit.
Reform flows from the Gospel as a natural outgrowth of its objective and power. When reform is elevated above the Gospel and the Word of God, it undermines the very power that brings about true and enduring change.
Final Thoughts
What Liberal theology often misses is that the Bible is not outdated or irrelevant. It speaks to the issues of our time just as it did in the past. The Bible doesn't need to adapt to culture; rather, it informs how we engage with culture. It provides timeless principles to address humanity’s challenges.
As Matthew 6:33 reminds us: “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.”
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