An Interview with U.S. Representative Marlin Stutzman (Indiana, 3rd District)

How has attending the House Members Bible Study impacted your personal faith journey?

Representative Marlin Stutzman:
I just really enjoy the Bible study. Each Thursday morning is one of those hours I look forward to—meeting with colleagues in Congress to study God’s Word rather than discuss policy. It’s a chance to dive into what God has for us through His Word each week while we’re in session. It’s a time of refreshment, it’s a reprieve from daily policy discussions, but it’s also a time of fellowship and enjoying the conversations around God’s Word.

I can imagine that is so important and encouraging during the week as well. How does the Bible study help you apply biblical principles in your role as a public servant?

Representative Marlin Stutzman:
Yeah, I’ve always tried to apply God’s Word to my daily life—whether through sermons, teaching, or personal study. When it comes to policy decisions, I realize humanity tends to make the same mistakes and act selfishly throughout history. God’s Word gives us principles to live by, but also lessons and stories about people who faced challenges—some made poor choices, and we can learn from them.

Even beginning with the Ten Commandments—those are laws the world should live by. Things would be much better if we simply followed those. But in complex circumstances, things aren’t always black and white. Sometimes there’s gray area, and we don’t always have the right answer. But focusing on God’s principles and lessons in Scripture gives me solid guidance—not just for policy, but also in working with others.

That’s rich, absolutely. What sets this Bible study apart from others you’ve participated in?

Representative Marlin Stutzman:
A couple of things. The timing works really well—Thursday morning, near the end of the week, it’s a great time to pause, take a breath, and enjoy good fellowship and study. I always appreciate Ralph and Danielle and their ministry—they’re warm, friendly, and lead great discussions.

But also, the depth and preparation they put into these studies they give to us are so valuable. We receive the studies in conference on Tuesdays, so I know the topic by Thursday and can reflect on it throughout the week. It ties into my personal devotions and other conversations, making the Bible study relevant all week long.

Yes, that’s terrific. Why do you believe this ministry is especially needed today in the halls of government?

Representative Marlin Stutzman:
One of the things Ralph brings is depth. It’s not a surface-level study—it doesn’t just touch the high points. It dives deep into doctrine and theology, which are critical for decision-making in Congress.

It’s easy to have feel-good conversations, but digging deep into Scripture helps us grow strong roots in understanding what God has for us. Those doctrines are timeless—they applied in the days of Abraham and Moses, and they still apply today.

Absolutely. Congressman what would you say to a colleague who might be hesitant about joining the study?

I’d say there’s nothing to be afraid of—but be a little brave. The conversations can stretch us, and that’s good. It’s like physical exercise.

It’s not a marathon, but a strong sprint—good, healthy, spiritual exercise each week. I find it invigorating and energizing, helping me tackle the rest of the day or week. Sometimes we’re dealing with personal challenges—a family loss, a struggle with a child—and it’s encouraging to know we’re not alone. We have the Lord with us, but also colleagues who’ve faced similar challenges and can offer wisdom and support.

Yes, that’s so important—to share burdens with fellow believers. If you could sum up the House Members Bible Study in one, two, or maybe three sentences, what would it be?

Representative Marlin Stutzman:
I’d say the Bible study is warm and inviting; there are always smiling faces, a friendly greeting, and a great conversation. But once the study starts, be ready to dive deep into God’s Word, be challenged, and participate. Share what God is teaching you, and listen to what He’s teaching others. Each week leaves me encouraged and refreshed.

Excellent, thank you. One of the efforts under Capitol Ministries is to develop leaders at the local level—people who may have a heart to reach out to a mayor, city council member, or school board member to bring a Bible study to them. Having benefited from the studies in Congress, what might you say to someone considering becoming a leader at the local level?

Representative Marlin Stutzman:
I think we’re talking more about faith—especially faith in Christ—in today’s political world than we have in a long time. So, it’s much easier to talk about it—even with friends of the Jewish faith, and I’ve reached out to people of the Muslim faith as well. It’s very challenging, but when we’re equipped and armed with God’s Word, it’s good for everyone. It builds bridges. I believe it helps people come together and understand how to work together.

One of my favorite football coaches, Lou Holtz, said something today that I thought was very accurate: “God doesn’t eliminate problems from your life, but He gives you the courage to handle them in a positive manner.” I think that’s really good—often we can let our challenges change our demeanor or how we treat others. But when we face problems with a positive outlook, people are inspired by that. That’s what makes great leaders.