Does God work through unrighteous political leaders?

God can and does work through unrighteous political leaders^1,2,7. In fact, we can find throughout Scripture examples of nations and political leaders that were vessels for God’s plan that culminated in Christ’s life, death, and resurrection in the “fullness of time”⁶. God’s will is always accomplished, regardless of an individual’s personal righteousness³.

Unrighteous political leaders and their policies can have dire consequences on the citizenry they rule⁵ or provide peace and contentment^1,2,7. While Christians are not in a position to definitively know God’s direct intervention with any political leader, we can judge their righteous deeds just as Jesus commanded…we can judge whether the leader acts righteous or unrighteous (outwardly)…we can judge whether they give glory to God or not…we can judge how their policies may impact living daily life as a Christian. However, we can’t judge their heart but we can always take solace in the fact that Jesus still rules and has ultimate authority⁴.