Jesus was born in a dark time. Israel was being oppressed by the cruel Roman Empire, and corruption was rampant. Discouraged and downtrodden, the Jewish people longed for deliverance through their long-awaited Messiah.

Jesus' followers expected Him to be the One to do it. Yet, although He came to save the oppressed, Jesus ignored some remarkable opportunities to utilize earthly power and political influence.

We also live in a discouraging time! We see Congress passing laws that conflict with Biblical truth, and observe ungodly leaders being voted into positions of power. We watch with dismay as our world becomes darker and evil seems to be advancing!

As Christians, we want to bring about change. But what are we to do? How politically involved should we be? Are there some opportunities that we, like Jesus, should refuse?