Christianity was birthed from the margins of a world empire. Its founder was no man of power in the traditional sense; neither were its first adherents people of influence. It grew in the crucible of persecution and, in an unforeseen turn, was declared the state religion of the same empire that sought to destroy it. American Christianity is a far cry from those early days. For centuries, Christians have enjoyed a considerable level of influence and comfort. The name of God is invoked in many corners of American life and there is still some level of deference for the pastorate.

But the culture is steadily severing its ties with historic Christianity in an attempt to perpetuate an inclusive and tolerant society. The realm of politics is a battleground for this. One politician calls for further separation between church and state while another panders to religious constituents to garner more votes. There are those who think that Christians and Christianity have no place in politics, while others celebrate politicians’ supposed Christian faith. Politics is inescapable and those in power often align themselves with values and movements that will simply lead to their election.

Christians with strong, biblically faithful, and theologically informed convictions are caught in the middle. How did we get here? What is one to do when Christian values are upheld by opposing parties? Is one party more aligned with Christianity than the other? Can Christians separate their faith from their vote? Should they? All that and more on this edition of Questions from the Pew.