Jane Ye is the pastor International Congregation at Oxford Terrace Baptist Church in Christchurch
As followers of Jesus, we live with a different kind of citizenship. We are part of Aotearoa New Zealand, and we participate in society with gratitude and responsibility, yet our deepest allegiance belongs first to the Kingdom of God.
Where I serve, I regularly walk alongside people from different nations and backgrounds and I hear many stories. Some people have come to Aotearoa searching for safety, stability, opportunity, or a better future for their children. Others have arrived carrying loneliness, trauma, uncertainty, or a deep longing to belong.
These conversations shape the way I think about politics and voting.
In ministry, I often see how political decisions affect everyday life in very real ways. Housing policies can affect whether families are able to find stable accommodation. Immigration policies can determine whether people who feel called to build their lives, serve, study, work, or contribute to churches and communities here are able to stay in New Zealand. Decisions around healthcare, education, employment, and social support also shape people’s daily realities.
These decisions are not abstract political discussions; they affect real people who are made in the image of God. Because of this, I believe Christians should not withdraw from society. Jesus calls us to be salt and light in the world, and voting is one practical way we can responsibly contribute to the wellbeing of our communities and neighbours.
At the same time, ministry constantly reminds me that the deepest human need is spiritual. I have met people who finally found security in a stable country yet still felt anxious and empty inside. I have also seen people encounter Jesus, and even while facing difficulties, become filled with peace, forgiveness, joy, and hope.
That is why I try not to place my ultimate hope in political parties or earthly governments. Politics can influence society, but it cannot fully heal the human heart. Only Christ can do that.
In Luke 4, Jesus announced good news to the poor, freedom for captives, recovery of sight for the blind, and freedom for the oppressed. He cared deeply about people, especially those who were overlooked, burdened, or vulnerable and his followers are called to carry that same heart into the world around us.
Jesus did not come to establish a political movement. He came to reconcile people to God and establish the Kingdom of God within human hearts. The words of 2 Corinthians 5 speak so strongly to me: God has entrusted us with the ministry of reconciliation.
I vote prayerfully and humbly and want my participation to reflect the values of Christ’s Kingdom - reconciliation instead of division, compassion instead of fear, truth instead of manipulation, and hope instead of despair.
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