Politics and Respectful Dialogue

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Politics has become very polarized during the past two decades. It's not the fault of any one person or party, but I believe it's possible to be right without being self-righteous. We can disagree without demonizing. When we're talking about something as important as government power, there’s a lot at stake, and we get worked up. That's fine; God created us to have feelings as well as thoughts. But the Bible also says we should be "quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger." Humility is a Christian virtue, pride is not.

 

If we're ignorant or apathetic about politics, it's easy to be civil because we don’t care. If we care deeply and passionately, civility can be hard. However, it's important to try. This isn't about being a mushy-headed compromiser when it comes to morality and ethics. We can stick to our principles and speak the truth even when it brings discomfort. But we should be able to do this without looking like jerks. We should be able to see value in people who hold differing views about politics. I have good friends who are principled progressives and though we disagree on some important issues, we also are able to find common ground. I hope the way I act around them sometimes sheds a positive light on my conservative values. There's a time to preach to the choir; there's a time to build bridges.

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When it comes to issues that we care about, substance is essential but style also matters. It can make us more or less effective for the our cause, especially because we are called to treat people with respect and be both honest and loving. It's also simply smart politics. If you want to change people's minds, you have to know where they're coming from. You have to hear the other person, engage their arguments, and try to understand the issue from their perspective. When I'm talking to other I don't agree with, I want to move them in my direction. Personal attacks aren't an effective way to do this. Conservatives, especially Christians, can set a good example in politics while still being strong for social morality and common sense.