The (2008 Presidential Race) presents some interesting challenges. One of particular interest for Christians is the fact that we have a Presidential candidate who is a Mormon (Mitt Romney).

For the Christian, should the fact that Mitt Romney is a Mormon have any impact on their evaluation of his candidacy?

From the article, ‘Mitt Romney’s Evangelical Problem’ John L. Smith, a Southern Baptist who runs Utah Mission–an organization that tries to convert Mormons–told Christianity Today: “Mormonism is either totally true or totally false. If it’s true, every other religion in America is false.” To be tolerant of Mormonism is to put evangelical Christianity at risk. And to put a Mormon in the White House would be to place a stamp of approval on that faith.

In the article, ‘A Long Way from Mainstream’ Chuck Colson has a very different perspective.

Mr. Colson says …

This question is prompted, I assume, by Mitt Romney’s candidacy for President. I do not believe, nor should any Christian believe, that there should be a religious test of any kind for public office.

I think I can honestly say as an evangelical Christian that I would assess Romney’s candidacy independent of his religious beliefs. Christians support public officials who have the ability to carry out the trust which they have been given. I would be more interested in Romney’s values than his Mormonism.

So, it is my belief that as Christians, we should not check our Christian beliefs at the door when it comes time to vote for our next President.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this matter. Join in on the debate: should our worldview have any impact on how we vote?

Here are some links that you might find of some interest:

• Should Christians Vote for Mormons?
• Jay Sekulow supports Mitt Romney for President (it appears)
• Regent students upset at Romney’s choice as speaker
• Romney Takes Two
• Mitt Romney’s Presidential Candidacy

Google Video Link Here

HT: Ben Davis, Symphony of Scripture

At Symphony of Scripture, Ben Davis has taken the time to provide some great notes to go along with this video. Enjoy.

Download the MP3.

I would encourage everyone to really research the candidates. Even those who are billed as conservative should be checked out. Keep in mind that even shows like Crosstalk America, which I like, should be listened to with a critical ear.

I think the following is a case in point.

In this program, it is clear why Romney is a candidate any true christian should discount. Romney’s faith in the Jesus of the bible is considered, as well as other issues any Christian would not support. As an alternative, Sam Brownback is suggested as a candidate with values that are compatible with a Christian world view. As for values, this may be true. However, when it comes to faith in the Jesus of the bible, Sam Brownback comes up short too.

Mr. Brownback is a Roman Catholic. Roman Catholic doctrine among other things, denies that salvation is in Christ alone, by His grace alone, and by faith in Him alone. I will eat my words if Sam Brownback, a Roman Catholic, will articulate that salvation comes through Christ alone, by His grace alone, through faith in Him alone (this is the biblical doctrine of justification). That the ‘Church’, it’s traditions, it’s sacraments, etc, have nothing to do with salvation.

How you should vote is up to you. I just think it is important that we know as much as possible about the candidates we are considering. Personally, I am looking for a candidate who has trusted in the Jesus of the bible for the saving of their soul and for direction in every aspect of their life. This includes how they would govern if elected President of the United States of America.

I could continue for pages, but enough has been said for now. Please prayerfully ask the Lord for direction as you cast your vote in 2008.

Ultimately, for the Christian, the question becomes, do I vote with faith first in mind or values? I don’t have to tell you that someone can have values yet be void of an authentic faith in Jesus Christ. Notice, I said, ‘first in mind’. There is no question that both faith and values are important considerations.

In His service,

Shane

Link to the Mar 19, 2007 Archive Page: Mormonism/Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Direct link to the MP3.