Politics and Church

For many years, there has been controversy over what role, if any, the church can play in the political process. Because the tax code specifically prohibits a church or other 501(c)(3 ) charitable organization from engaging in partisan political speech, many churches have been hesitant to engage in any activity that is remotely political. Consequently, Christians do not hear from their own pastors to get involved and be engaged in the political process. Much worse is the tendency for churches to be unwilling to tackle matters of public policy and the biblical response to issues we face in our culture for fear of running afoul of IRS regulations. The IRS issues a letter at the start of each presidential election season reminding the candidates of these regulations. This year's letter can be found here.

Even more frustrating for Republicans has been the double standard in the media on this issue. For years, Democrats have been using churches as political platforms. If a Republican were to dare to make a political speech from the pulpit the media would crucify him.

Now the tables have been turned. John Kerry made news earlier this week when he appeared at a church in Ohio. Today, Americans United for Separation of Church and State (a liberal watchdog group) have filed a complaint with the IRS stating that Kerry's appearance amounted to an illegal campaign rally.

The whole argument that the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of religious expression provides for separation of church and state is completely bogus. A thorough examination of this issue is included in the book "Original Intent" by David Barton. By examining the writings of the Founding Fathers, early court cases, and state constitutions, Barton makes the case that the Founders simply wanted to make sure that the government did not endorse a specific religion or denomination. It is through multiple rulings from activist liberal judges that the meaning of the First Amendment has been twisted to suit the liberal political agenda rather than being interpreted as the Founders originally intended it.

However, I find it refreshing that liberals are now being held to the same standards as conservatives on this issue. If we are going to have laws prohibiting churches from engaging in political speech then those laws should apply equally to everyone.

The church still has a duty (and Christians individually) to be engaged in the debate over matters of public policy. It is up to us to present a biblical worldview in addressing important issues that we face as a nation.

UPDATE: The guys over at Powerline have the latest on this. Now Teddy Kennedy is getting in on the act. So is Al Gore. I wonder how supportive these churches will be of the Democrats when the IRS comes in to take away their tax-exempt status.