Kingdom Policy: Applying Grace to the Law of God

Recently, more than 2,500 delegates from across the country gathered for the Conservative Party of Canada’s national convention, a pivotal meeting that brought together grassroots members, party leaders, and volunteers from every region of Canada. The convention served as a working assembly where delegates reviewed, debated, and voted on amendments to the party’s Constitution which is the governing document that shapes how the party operates. In addition, updates to the Policy Manual, which outlines the principles and policy positions that guide the party’s vision for Canada.

For Christians, this process offers a meaningful parallel. Our governing document is not a political constitution but God’s law, summarized in the Ten Commandments and laws given by Moses, which defines the foundation of how we are called to live. Our policy manual is found in the Old and New Testaments, providing a complete blueprint for applying God’s Word to every area of life. Scripture does not remain theoretical; it shapes our decisions, our conduct, and our responsibility to love God, love others, and live out our faith with integrity in the public square as well as in our homes.

One clear example is how we apply the commandment, “You shall not murder.”  In the Old Testament, the law establishes the sanctity of human life and sets clear boundaries that protect it. It defines justice, accountability, and the seriousness of taking a life.  In the New Testament, Jesus goes further by addressing the heart behind the action. He teaches that anger, hatred, and contempt toward others also violate God’s intent for the law. In practice, this means Christians are called not only to reject violence, but to actively pursue reconciliation, forgive offenses, and treat every person as bearing God’s image. The law sets the boundary; the gospel transforms the heart so that obedience flows from love rather than mere compliance.

At the convention, many delegates who identify as Christians worked thoughtfully and respectfully to advance policies rooted in the conviction that every human life has inherent value. This was evident in proposals addressing Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) and abortion, where delegates sought to reflect what they see as biblical principles of dignity, protection, and care for the vulnerable.  While these policy proposals were ultimately defeated on the convention floor, the outcome serves as a sober reminder that Canada is a pluralistic society, shaped by a wide range of beliefs and moral frameworks. For people of faith, this reality does not signal retreat but resolve, to continue engaging the public square with humility, clarity, and perseverance, advocating for policies that align with a biblical blueprint while seeking the common good.

As I reflected on the weekend, I was reminded that those who do not hold a biblical worldview are not the enemy. Scripture calls us to separate identity from behaviour. To contend firmly for truth without losing sight of the inherent worth of every person. Someone once said in a meeting I was in that “We need to be hard on the issues and soft on the people.”  Jesus modeled this approach perfectly. When applying God’s law, He often revealed a third alternative, one that upheld truth while extending grace.

In the account of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1–11), the law was clear: “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14), and the prescribed punishment under the Mosaic Law was death by stoning (Deuteronomy 22:22). As the crowd prepared to act, Jesus intervened, not by dismissing the law, but by confronting the hearts of the accusers. One by one, they left (John 8:9). Then Jesus spoke words that still shape Christian engagement today: “Neither do I condemn you,” reflecting grace, followed by “Go now and leave your life of sin,” calling her to transformation (John 8:11). Truth was upheld, grace was extended, and restoration became the goal.

The challenge before us is to apply this same posture in our parenting and in our engagement with the world. Like Jesus, we are called to hold fast to truth while leading with grace. In our homes, this means setting clear boundaries rooted in God’s Word, while responding to failure with patience, correction, and love – aiming always at restoration, not rejection (Colossians 3:21; Hebrews 12:11). In the public square, it means speaking clearly on moral issues without vilifying those who disagree, remembering that changed hearts ultimately shape just laws (Micah 6:8). When truth and grace walk together, we model a faith that is both courageous and compassionate. One that forms our children, influences our communities, and reflects the heart of Christ to a watching world.

This week, how can you step into your world as salt and light (Matthew 5:13–16).  Reflecting the good news of Jesus not only in what you say, but in how you live.  Let your words build others up and not burn bridges.  Let your actions point others to hope. The challenge is simple but costly, live in such a way that people encounter Jesus through your example.