The Tangled Vine: Church and Politics in Modern Naga Society

struggle for many Christians today. Within our own Naga Christian communities, confusion persists, gripping both young and old alike, particularly when confronting the specific relationship between the Church and Politics. This confusion isn't abstract; it reflects a harsh reality. Contemporary Naga politics, many feel, has corroded the collective mindset. Too often, our leaders appear captivated by the pursuit of wealth and power, their focus shifting from the sacred duty of soul-saving to the secular allure of material gain.

Nagaland finds itself in a state of political ferment, and the Baptist Church, a cornerstone of Naga society, occupies an especially poignant position. The challenges facing the Church today are unprecedented since American missionaries first navigated the Brahmaputra in tugboats over a century ago, bringing faith across oceans. Alarmingly, the zeal of some contemporary leaders seems misdirected. Passion for Naga nationalism occasionally eclipses devotion to the Lord, while socio-political agenda appear to overshadow ecclesiastical priorities.

Perhaps the most subtle and dangerous challenge confronting the Naga church is maintaining a proper distance from the state. The tempting analogy – equating Church and Politics as vessels both concerned with societal good – is dangerously superficial. Judging the contents by the containers is a naive mistake in our complex world; it's merely old, simplistic thinking in a new bottle. While these vessels might “sound” similar, their contents are fundamentally distinct. The Church's vessel holds spiritual, moral, and ethical values; the political vessel is filled with inherently political ingredients.

Navigating the Necessary Divide: A Personal Perspective

The entanglement of Church and Politics in Nagaland is no new phenomenon; it’s a persistent issue demanding constant vigilance. Observing the present context reveals an uncomfortably close relationship, one where some churches risk losing their core mission: worshipping God in truth and spirit. The solution isn't an absolute separation, nor is it wholesale engagement. Instead, we must find and maintain a “limit”, a boundary that prevents the insidious creep of division and corruption into the sacred space.

How does this work in practice? Churches may invite political candidates to speak during services, either as candidates or private individuals. Crucially: If the event's purpose is political – a candidate forum or campaign speech – the church “must” extend invitations to “all” candidates vying for the same office. Endorsing any candidate or allowing fundraising is strictly forbidden. Conversely, if the presentation is nonpartisan – perhaps a personal testimony of faith – inviting opposing candidates isn't mandatory. However, the church must be unequivocal: it is “not” endorsing the speaker, and the engagement is solely testimonial. Even when a politician speaks non-politically, neither they nor the church should reference their campaign.

When pastors choose to participate in political committees or events, clarity is paramount. They must explicitly state they act as private citizens, not representatives of their church. Financially, the line must be absolute: churches cannot donate to campaigns or parties. Equally critical, political leaders must not funnel money to churches as a transactional ploy for votes. Any donation should stem purely from free will, aimed solely at the church's genuine development. True progress hinges on leaders understanding and respecting these distinct paths.

The Cost of Conflation

The consequences of blurring these lines are starkly visible. Politics has sown division within some Naga churches, fracturing the very peace and harmony they are meant to embody. While well-intentioned leaders propose plans to eradicate societal evils and corruption, these scourges persist. Unlike the clearer demarcations of the past, today's social, political, economic, and even religious life feels increasingly polluted. The vital distinction between the ways of God and the ways of the world grows perilously faint.

As a state with a Christian majority, Nagaland carries a profound responsibility. We “must” reclaim the ability to discern good from evil. Both church leaders and political figures are called to be exemplars, living testaments to integrity and service. Their conduct shapes not only our present society but also lays the foundation for generations to come. The tangled vine of Church and Politics needs careful pruning – not to sever connection entirely, but to ensure each can bear its distinct, vital fruit without choking the other. Our future harmony depends on it.

Markala Aier

Faith Theological College, Dimapur