The Pre-Political Changing of America

August 2012

The shallow thinking of Christian political activism never ceases to amaze me. At best, changing America through politics is like playing a game of Chutes and Ladders: One year our causes win and the next they lose—but over the years it’s obvious we have encountered many more slides than advances. Having made that observation, Christians do need to have a prophetic voice in culture, powerfully stating “Thus saith the Lord!” But in terms of decidedly changing the direction of a nation, Christian activism is not the answer. It is not causal; at best it’s reactionary.

In order to change the direction of a nation Christians need to prioritize their energies and resources in ways that are pre-political. God calls His people to change a country one heart at a time through the evangelism and discipleship of public servants. Such is the emphasis of the Apostle Paul throughout the Book of Acts. I can tell you from my vantage point of a ministry in our nation’s capitol that mature-in-Christ political leaders don’t need to be pressured to vote right! The Word of God in unison with the indwelling Holy Spirit is their faithful and powerful lobbyist.

Capitol Ministries set out in 1996 to create a prepolitical movement for Christ. Thus far we have been able to start (or partner with several already-existing) ministries in about 75% of the state capitols. There remain about a dozen states where we still need to plant ministries. Such efforts represent the historic Phase I of our organizational strategy. Three years ago we began Phase II, which was to found an effective ministry in Washington DC. If you read my regular communications you know that by God’s grace the DC ministry is well-established and growing, with over 10% of Congress now partnering in our efforts.

When we get a little closer to fulfilling our goal of 50 effective ministries in all 50 state capitols, Lord willing we will launch Phase III of our organizational plan: Placing lay ministers in association with local churches in the 30,000 incorporated city municipalities of America! This is a daunting task, but if we are successful, I believe this phase will forever change America.

I don’t know about you, but I would rather play Monopoly than Chutes and Ladders! The latter is a game kids play. Think of the success of the 60-year-old Sports Ministry Movement. Now imagine thousands of public servants who are mature in Christ coming up through the ranks — serving in local, state and federal government— men and women who determine policy from a biblical perspective because someone faithfully taught them the Word of God. This will bring glory to God! That is our passion; that is what we live for! How about you? We ask you to join with us!

Ralph Drollinger
President and Founder
Capitol Ministries