Christ-like character combats political violence

“I think the issue with modern society is if I disagree with you, I have to hate you,” Mr. Steven Fox, tenth-grade Bible assistant said.

Disagreement is seemingly intolerable in the modern era. One is expected, apparently, to loathe those they find differences with. Narratives of ‘us versus them,’ arise, polarizing both sides of the political spectrum. News outlets report endlessly on new politically motivated acts of violence, fear of being ostracized for political views is palpable, and unreasonable hatred for one another feels pervasive. Many students at The King’s Academy are confused and anxious about the outside world around them where politics seems to influence every facet of life.

A Pew Research Center report from Sep. to Oct. 2024 said, “Two-thirds of registered voters (66%) say the threat of violence against political leaders and their families is a major problem. Another 30% say this is a minor problem.”

Awareness of political violence rose dramatically following the assassination of high-profile Christian conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Since Kirk’s death on Sep. 10., discourse surrounding political violence has become a forefront topic. Tensions between political parties seem to boil as news about attacks on government facilities, politically motivated shootings and violent clashes during protests are plastered across headlines. It can feel like the world is on fire, and nothing can be done to restore the peace. However, as Christians, we are to navigate political violence in a God-honoring way. What might this look like?

“I’ve heard it said they don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” Mr. Fox said. “We are called to help others…we think about the Good Samaritan, that’s still our calling.”

Christians can prove to be light to the world through dark times, even those marred by political violence. By living and serving in a Christ-like manner, followers of God can combat political violence with the loving patience of Jesus Christ.

“It’s in 1 Peter where it says we are not to repay evil for evil,” Mr. Fox said. “I think we should approach [political violence] with a concept of truly, ‘what would Jesus have us do?’”

Students can take comfort in God’s plan to return where justice will be avenged, but also be empowered by Jesus’ teachings. When faced with the hateful leviathan of political violence, Christians can choose to approach with a heart full of patience, love and understanding.

“When someone else is speaking, others should at least try to listen and try to understand,” Mr. Fox said. “I think sometimes we listen to simply speak again.”

Taking the time to listen and speak with someone with opposing views can build Christian character. By humbling ourselves and listening to others, we can reveal the Holy Spirit within us. You may not end up agreeing with the opinions of the other person, but you will have given them a positive experience of Christ’s sacrificial love.

“I don’t need to be right in human eyes, but I do have to be right in God’s eyes,” Mr. Fox said.

Some Christians and students may struggle with how to contend with injustices committed against the innocent and undeserving. Though the topic of political violence can be controversial and anxiety inducing, TKA students can stand uncompromising in their faith, while also countering the spread of political violence through acts of Christ-like character.