Post-Recall Thoughts: Stand Firm and Hold Fast to Christ and His Mission

Dear GraceHill family,

It’s September 15, a day after many of us took to the polls (or voted by mail) to cast a vote on whether or not to recall the governor of our state. Although the results of the recall are not yet official, the outcome is all but inevitable, which may be tempting you to feel discouraged and, in some cases, afraid of what’s ahead. Given the opposition raised against the governor during this recall process, it’s not unreasonable to conclude that Newsom will look to issue more stringent mandates than before, now that he’s guaranteed at least one more year in the office.

Considering all this, I want to encourage you to evaluate our political situation through the lens of Scripture and the gospel. Consider the following three simple truths:

First, God appoints, removes, and recalls all authorities.

I know, I know that you know. But it’s on days like today that we need to affirm these truths and not resist them. So, let’s slow down and allow the Spirit to minister Christ’s Word to us:

It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings. Daniel 2:21

For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Romans 13:1

Some will look at the recall numbers and blame certain groups for not coming out to vote or charge the current government with “stealing the election” (which may or may not be true). However, we must rest in God’s sovereign providence, having done all that’s required of us as legal citizens of the state (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Timothy 2:1-3).

Second, Christ builds His church despite all opposition.

I don’t know about you, but it sure is comforting to know that despite the hardships the church (Christians) faces in this state, Christ promises to build His church (Matthew 16:19). The spread of Gospel truth and conversion of souls is not dependent on the man in the white house or the edicts he signs into law. In fact, it is not dependent on any human initiative or wisdom. It is ultimately dependent on the power and wisdom of the risen and living Christ. So, just as He has built and brought His church through the past two millennia, we can rest secure knowing that Christ remains committed to this cause today, just as much as when He had made this promise to Peter (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:8).

Third, the current conditions best aid the spread of the gospel.

If the first two statements are true, then shouldn’t we conclude that the results of this recall are best suited to accomplish the mission of Christ? Remember, church - we are now citizens of another country (Philippians 3:20) because of our union with Christ:

I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Galatians 2:20

As such, we have been tasked with the same mission: to die to ourselves and make disciples of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20). So, as you go about your day today, ask yourself, “Why on earth am I here for?” As a Christian, you are here primarily to promote Christ and his Gospel in your family, in your church, in your work environment, or wherever else God has you. And as you do, trust that our gracious Lord has ordained the present circumstances to accomplish His mission. In other words, we’re right where God wants us to be. So, stand firm, hold fast, and resist the temptation to make it about here and now.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might...Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:10, 13

But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them. Hebrews 11:16

For the Gospel,

-Pastor Tim