No – this is what we learn from William Wilberforce

For many Christians in politics the example of Wilberforce in his tireless campaign to abolish the transatlantic slave trade is a model to follow. So too for much of the Christian public as they look to Christian MPs to stand up for their Christian principles.

I recall Ann Widdecombe telling a tale of when she was out campaigning in her old constituency of Maidstone in an open-top car with her loudhailer and a bunch of leaflets entitled ‘My Christian Principles’. Suddenly a big gust of wind blew her leaflets out of the window leading Ann to shout, still with loudhailer to hand, ‘I’ve lost my Christian principles’!

Many Christians may be tempted to think this of Christian MPs after they have made it to Parliament. A type of ‘Wilberforce Bingo’ comes into play. Christians mark off whether MPs have abolished abortion, ended modern slavery, eradicated child poverty, strengthened marriage and families. We can end up disappointed and longing for the next Wilberforce.