Did You Know... Part 6
Our Church and Society team continues to highlight the United Methodist Social Principles (established in 1972, revised in 2024). These principles address current global and national issues, reflecting our identity as a connected global church.
Note: In the Social Principles, "we" denotes the General Conference and all global United Methodist Church members. For the next couple months the team is highlighting the Principles' section titled “Political Community”, including government responsibilities, democracy and voting.
The preface to the Political Community section emphasizes responsible political action and engagement for the common good, which is foundational to democracies. The document supports basic rights in both church and civil society. Quoting from the Social Principles document:
"Our involvement in political systems is rooted in the Gospel imperative to love our neighbors, to do justice, and to care for the vulnerable.
As United Methodists, we acknowledge that love requires responsible political action and engagement aimed at the betterment of society and the promotion of the common good."
The section on “Government Responsibilities” calls for accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership from those in government.
Quoting: “We urge those elected or appointed to public posts or holding other positions in government to act as responsible leaders and stewards of the authority and resources entrusted to them. We call on all government officials to aspire to the highest standards of professionalism, honesty and integrity. Furthermore, we urge all governments to adopt policies and practices that guarantee accountability and transparency in fostering and maintaining the trust of the public." These are key principles in any functioning democracy.
Proverbs 28:2: "When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a ruler with discernment and knowledge maintains order. "
Quoting more from the Social Principles document:
“We affirm that both church and state have vital and distinct roles to play in relation to the larger society. Though the formal relationships between religious communities and governments vary from country to country, we generally affirm the independence and integrity of both institutions, and we advocate for a relationship of mutual respect in which neither institution seeks to dominate or unduly influence the other.”
“We affirm that every form of government stands under God’s judgment and must therefore be held accountable for protecting the innocent, guaranteeing basic freedoms and liberties, protecting the natural world, and establishing just, equitable, and sustainable economies.”
Psalm 22:28: “Proclaims that dominion belongs to the Lord, and He rules over the nations.”
Prayerfully yours,
Church and Society team
