Faith in the Public Square: Why Christians Must Be Salt & Light
Episode 25 Recap — The Angela Adkins Podcast
In Episode 25 of The Angela Adkins Podcast, Angela sits down with Mike Griffin, Public Affairs Representative for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, for a powerful conversation about faith, culture, government, religious freedom, and what it means for Christians to be “salt and light” in today’s world.
With more than 35 years of pastoral ministry and years of experience working at the Georgia State Capitol, Mike shares why believers shouldn’t view their faith as something confined to Sunday morning. Instead, he challenges Christians to live out their biblical convictions wherever God places them—including in their communities and the public square. A major theme throughout the episode is the importance of evangelism, education, and engagement. Mike encourages Christians to know Scripture, understand the issues affecting their communities, research candidates and policies, pray for elected officials, vote, and build relationships with people—even those with whom they may strongly disagree. Angela and Mike also discuss religious freedom, biblical worldview, the role of government, the influence of the Church on culture, and why Christians should resist the temptation to remain silent out of fear. The goal, Mike explains, isn’t simply political influence—it’s representing Christ through both truth and love.
Key Highlights
Be Salt and Light Everywhere: Faith isn’t limited to the walls of the church. Christians are called to influence the world around them wherever God has placed them.
Evangelism, Education & Engagement: Sharing the Gospel, understanding biblical principles and current issues, and becoming actively involved are all essential.
Voting Requires Discernment: Don’t expect a perfect candidate. Pray, research candidates, understand where they stand, and make informed decisions based on your convictions.
Know What You Believe: Christians should understand what Scripture says about the issues before trying to determine where candidates or political parties stand.
Pray—and Participate: Prayer is essential, but Mike challenges believers not to use prayer as a substitute for taking action when God has given them an opportunity to engage.
Pray for Government Leaders: Whether you voted for someone or not, believers are still called to pray for those serving in positions of authority.
Protect Religious Freedom: Religious liberty allows believers to live out their faith beyond the church building and openly practice their convictions.
Speak Truth in Love: Courage and compassion aren’t opposites. Christians can stand firmly for what they believe while treating others with dignity and love.
The Church Can Influence Culture: Mike emphasizes that culture ultimately influences politics—and the Church has an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on culture.
One Person Can Make a Difference: You may not be able to do everything, but you can faithfully do what God has called you to do.
The episode concludes with a powerful prayer for listeners, churches, the nation, and government leaders—and for Christians to have the wisdom, discernment, love, and courage needed to faithfully live out their calling.
Support
Where has God placed you to be salt and light?
Don’t stop at simply listening. Pray. Get educated. Get engaged. Vote. Build relationships. Share your faith. And have the courage to speak truth in love.
🎧 Watch or listen to the full Episode 25 of The Angela Adkins Podcast, share it with someone who needs to hear this conversation, and follow the show for more discussions where faith meets healing and God’s purpose for your life brings radiant joy in every step of your journey.
