Recently there have been stories about the Brethren Church in Australia involving itself in politics, including at the last federal election.

The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church however has denied involvement in election activities.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-21/exclusive-brethren-church-denies-harrasment-federal-election/107061934

The church itself has about 15,000 members across Australia - and the influence of such people, particularly across a marginal electorate could have serious consequences.

Some have classed the Brethren as a cult, leaving the movement and being split up in terms of families. As people they felt closed in, didn't agree with their policies and wanted their personal freedoms and values to be respected.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-19/leaving-the-plymouth-brethren-christian-church-in-australia/104323648

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJ1a0pxyrJk

I am therefore concerned about religions getting involved in politics, trying to impose their values onto other people and impacting on the democratic process.

I am also wondering if getting involved in politics is what religions are actually for in real terms and what they are actually meant to be about. For example, does getting involved in politics go against the teachings of the bible or another holy book?