Politics, Christians and the Kingdom of God

It's official. I actually love my New Testament class at Regent University. This week's assignment is one reason why. Below are the assignment instructions. I will post my response tomorrow, or the next day.

The 2008 U.S. presidential election campaign is already in full swing. It is predicted that it will be one of the most wide-open and interesting races to take place in decades. In the last several presidential elections, the "Religious Right" has played a significant part in the outcome of the elections. As Christians, we are both members of the "Kingdom of Heaven" and the nation of the United States (or another country). Should our understanding and commitment to the "Kingdom of God" affect how we participate in the upcoming election? Should the religious, moral and ethical convictions of the candidates sway our vote? Should we vote for a candidate because they claim to be a "Christian" or should we vote based upon their official stands on such issues as abortion or immigration, fiscal policy or same-sex marriage? Should we even involve ourselves in the political process and is participating, or not participating, in harmony with Christ's proclamation of Kingdom of God?

While I certainly want you to express your opinion, I want you to back up your opinion with scripture and appeal to other Christian traditions on the subject. You are to post an initial 250-300 essay, then, you are to respond to two other posts with 150-200 words. Feel free to ask questions of your peers and to challenge each other. But, BE RESPECTFUL!