On this episode of 20Twenty, Alistair Cameron joined us to talk about faith, politics and the role of Christians in shaping our nation. Politics can be a tough space for Christians. Alistair has spent more than ten years in politics, working with Family First, the Australian Conservatives and the Australian Christian Lobby. But after running for the Victorian state election and not being elected, he felt it was time to step away.
“I kept praying, ‘Lord, is this what You want for me?’ Eventually, I felt God close that chapter.” He now works with Power to Change, focusing on sharing the Gospel. But with the election just around the corner, Alistair says Christians still have an important role to play.
Politics Can Be a Tough Space for Christians
Alistair says the political world is not what most people imagine. “You expect politicians to be wise and respectable, but that’s not always the case. It’s often messy, and all about gaining and keeping power. Which is very different to how Jesus lived.”
Because of this, he encourages Christians who are called into politics to be well prepared and covered in prayer. “If you know someone running for office, pray for them. It’s a hard space for someone trying to follow Jesus.”
Our Hope Is in the Gospel
While Alistair supports Christians being involved in politics, he says it’s not where our true hope should lie. “The church often grows the most in places where it has no political power at all—like China or Iran. That’s where the Gospel really shines.” He reminds Christians that everyday faithfulness makes the biggest difference.
“Politics follows culture. And we help shape culture by living out our faith—being kind to our neighbours, sharing the truth, and being people of hope.” As the election approaches, Alistair’s message is clear: trust God, pray for our leaders, and don’t lose sight of the Gospel.
“Jesus changes lives. That’s where the real power is.”
Listen to Alistair’s full interview below:
