Christian Rights and Protest Part 2 of 3

How About a Passive Demonstration Like Signing a Petition?

Clearly the duty of the disciples is to “seek peace, and pursue it” (Ps 34:14; 1 Peter 3:11); to “follow peace with all men” (Rom 12:18). But does the teaching of Jesus Christ suggest active involvement in a campaign for peace? Our responsibility to be peacemakers are for in the home, at work, or among the people we meet. However, that does not give us license to put pressure on those in authority.

You ask what about Jesus' actions when he rebuked the Scribes and Pharisees, or overturned the tables of the moneychangers?

Jesus' action, as the Son of God, was directed at abuses within the religious system, and in regards to his Father's house. He did not campaign for secular causes.

Should a Christian Protest?

Those who petition are claiming the right to make a demand of worldly authority; the disciples, however, discounts his earthly citizenship. (Philippians 3:20) and makes no claim upon those who govern him. Although the disciples of Christ, in common with others, receives th4e benefits which the state confers and is grateful for these, he neither expects nor demands them.

Yes, Jesus denounced the rulers of his day; he rebuked them for their hypocrisy, for grinding the faces of the poor, for lining their pockets. But he was denouncing them as religious leaders, as shepherds of the flock of Israel – where plainly they had failed. He did not denounce the political leaders, or Roman governors in such terms. And though the “poor in spirit...they that mourn...the meek...they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake” (Matt 5) received words of comfort, Jesus did not rouse them to rebellion, or even suggest passive demonstrations or silent marches for equality of opportunity, or human rights. Rather, his counsel was to accept conditions as they found them: “Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in heaven.”

God's Rights Trump Human Rights

Human rights are demanded by everyone, and even by many who consider themselves Christians. Human rights have become a large part of the modern Gospel. But what about the rights of God? These seem to be sorely neglected. No account is taken of His will when politicians, social reformers or individuals express what they feel is desirable or undesirable. But the bible makes it clear that God claims “rights” as Creator of us all. He has a right to our worship and obedience.

(This has been scaled down and edited for brevity's sake. Click here for entire original article)