5th November 2026

Was Jesus political in his message and actions? It’s an interesting question for the interesting times in which we live. When challenged about paying tribute (taxes) to Rome, Jesus wisely stated, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God” (Matthew 22:21 NLT). I like that he included tithes and offerings for the work of God. But the kingdom he was declaring was more than rules and behaviour.

It is informative that Jesus prioritised the announcement of a new, spiritual kingdom rather than to offer in-depth commentary about Caesar and the Roman government, or the local client kings (Herod the Great and his dynasty). In contrast, Jesus frequently criticised corruption among the Jewish religious leaders. He cited hypocrisy, pride, and legalism as visible shortcomings (unacceptable behaviour for leaders who represent the Triune God). The Old and New Testaments confirm that religious leaders are held to a higher standard. Jesus called this out.

Christ’s proclamation about the kingdom of God and its spiritual nature challenged the power of governmental structures and confronted the moral dilemmas of the religious order. The kingdom of God is about people, not power. Jesus’s desire is to draw all people to himself and reconcile them to God. This is the heart of the kingdom message and salvific work of Jesus through the incarnation, the atoning death on the cross, the glorious resurrection on Easter and the ascension to the Father, where he awaits his return in glory.

Grace Communion International does not believe that local pastors or church leaders should be trying to influence local members or the community at large about whom they should support politically or what political view or position they should take. We do not believe that political endorsements of parties or candidates belong in the pulpit.

Jesus never sought a political office nor organised a political rally. Jesus was and is the promised Messiah, the only begotten Son of the Father, and the King of the eternal kingdom of heaven. He holds the only office where all knees will bow, and every tongue confesses that he is Lord. Jesus is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Praise God that while we live in a loud, politically motivated world, we know to whom we channel full allegiance.

Confessing Jesus is Lord,

This is a slightly amended study first published in the 23 September 2026 edition of the GCI Update

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