should I vote for a non-Christian?

Yesterday, I wrote about supporting candidates for election who have the greatest chance to do good, rather than those who may match my values more closely. Here is where it starts getting interesting. Do I automatically vote for a Christian candidate over a non-Christian candidate? Two views.

Yes-
A candidate who acknowledges Jesus as Lord has at least shown he/she has an excellent view of reality. If he/she uses the Bible as their filter, than he/she uses the most brilliant resource available. A Christian may be more likely to make sure the anti-Christian bias of present government institutions (e.g. “Inherit the Wind” is still showing up in the public high school theatre circles, including our daughters!) doesn’t increase. If he/she is a man/woman of prayer to Jesus, than all the more likely Jesus guides this faithful Christian seeking his wisdom.

No-
A candidate who acknowledges Jesus as Lord may not necessarily follow the filter of the Bible. The same candidate may not be consistent in applying biblical principles. A Christian candidate may think he/she has God’s guidance on a decision, but it wasn’t God, it was his/her own projection, or worse, Satan’s temptation disguised and joined with their projection.

God also guides non-Christians in government (Romans 13). Biblical principles can be used by non-Christians to inform their decisions. Conscience is also a tool at God’s disposal. The non-Christian may simply have greater political influence and may, therefore, have a better chance to bring about change that is more conducive to good.

I would argue that the “No” position is more supportable, though “Yes” is quite attractive. I would tend to agree with Christian thinker Martin Luther who said, (paraphrase) ‘I would rather be ruled by a wise Muslim than a foolish Christian.’