The Pastor and the State: Dr. Che Ahn’s Call for California – Episode 239
Why Ché Ahn Believes Christians Must Engage in Politics
A candid Q&A with host Gustavo Vargas
Why should a Christian—and especially a pastor—be involved in politics?
Ché Ahn:
From the very beginning, God created humanity to rule and steward the earth with Him. In Genesis 1:28, God commands mankind to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it—meaning to restrain evil and exercise godly authority. This mandate existed before the fall.
Jesus didn’t just come to save souls; He came to restore what was lost—our authority to rule with Him. Ephesians 2 tells us we are now seated with Christ in heavenly places, far above all rule and authority. Politics is simply one sphere of society where that restored authority must be expressed. To avoid it is to deny a core part of the gospel and our inheritance in Christ.
Why are so many pastors afraid to speak about politics?
Ché Ahn:
The Bible is clear: God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Fear of people replaces the fear of God when leaders lose sight of who truly provides and sustains them.
Many pastors worry about losing members, finances, or influence. But Jesus calls us to take up our cross daily—to die to people-pleasing. When pastors truly return to their first love and are filled with God’s love, courage follows. Perfect love casts out fear, and that love compels us to speak truth with grace.
What kind of leadership should pastors model in a hostile culture?
Ché Ahn:
Our model is Jesus Himself. Hebrews says that for the joy set before Him, He endured the cross. He understood the suffering, rejection, and cost—but He also saw the redeemed family of God on the other side.
Pastors are called to lay down their lives for the sheep. That includes telling the truth even when it invites rejection or persecution. Jesus promised that if the world hated Him, it would hate us too. Courageous leadership isn’t optional—it’s biblical.
Why did you challenge California’s COVID church shutdowns?
Ché Ahn:
In 2020, California deemed abortion clinics, marijuana dispensaries, liquor stores, and even strip clubs “essential,” while closing churches and small businesses. That was morally indefensible.
The church is the most essential institution in society—especially during times of fear, isolation, anxiety, and depression. When we reopened our church, we knew it could cost us everything, including jail time. We ultimately took the case to the Supreme Court of the United States, and by God’s grace, we won. That victory wasn’t just legal—it was spiritual.
Do you believe Governor Gavin Newsom is a “devout Catholic”?
Ché Ahn:
Jesus said you will know a tree by its fruit. A leader who champions abortion up until birth, same-sex marriage, and radical gender ideology is not living according to biblical Christianity—Catholic or Protestant.
Governor Gavin Newsom codified abortion into California’s constitution, turning the state into a sanctuary for abortion tourism funded by taxpayers. That contradicts both Scripture and the sanctity-of-life ethic rooted in the Constitution itself.
Can a born-again Christian vote for progressive leftist policies?
Ché Ahn:
Scripture speaks of sins of commission and omission. When believers knowingly support leaders who promote abortion, the sexualization of children, and the erosion of parental rights, they become complicit.
As an immigrant who became a U.S. citizen, I see voting as sacred stewardship. Since becoming a Christian in 1973, I committed to vote biblically—not by party, but by values. Life is foundational. When a leader gets life wrong, everything else eventually follows.
How would you describe Charlie Kirk and his legacy?
Ché Ahn:
Charlie Kirk was brilliant, bold, and deeply committed to Jesus. Though young, he carried extraordinary wisdom and courage. He opened doors for pastors, challenged cultural lies on college campuses, and fearlessly spoke truth in love—despite constant threats.
I believe God is calling many of us to carry forward that legacy, especially among Gen Z, by discipling young leaders with a biblical worldview that lasts for generations.
Are you afraid of losing followers or financial support because of your views?
Ché Ahn:
No. Galatians 1:10 settled that for me long ago. If I’m trying to please people, I’m not a servant of Christ. My calling is to honor Jesus and serve Californians—not to protect popularity.
Obedience matters more than outcomes. If God has called me, He will sustain me.
Do you really believe you can win the California governor’s race?
Ché Ahn:
Humanly speaking, the odds are against any Republican. But God specializes in miracles. California is shifting—more voters are questioning failed leadership, rising costs, crime, homelessness, and attacks on parental rights.
I’m not a career politician. I’m a pastor who loves this state. When God called me to run, I resisted—until He confirmed it unmistakably, including an invitation to the White House from Donald Trump. If God wants this Red Sea parted, He will do it again.