Dr. Andrew Walker recently gave a helpful answer on the KBC’s Leadership Lessons podcast when asked whether pastors should or should not engage in politics from the pulpit. Walker said, “I don’t think that a pastor needs to be talking about politics every single week. But I would also say there is another temptation to never talk about politics at all.” He went on to say, “If you don’t inform your flock … they’re going to get counterfeit truth somewhere else.”
So, what about pastors and politics? What should they do, knowing that the political issues of our day are important, and that the world is catechizing the congregation on these same matters? Here are some considerations:
1. Engage in the issues: One of the largest churches in Kentucky once had a core value posted on a wall inside its facility stating that the church was a conscience to its city. This church was communicating that issues such as abortion, racism and justice were important to them because they are biblical issues, and the church would not shrink away from addressing them.
Every church can engage with the issues of our day and teach congregants what the Bible says regarding them. That doesn’t mean a pastor will not be accused of being political, but pastors develop thick skin over time and can handle a little criticism if they have checked their own motives for teaching about the issues.
2. Pray for those in authority: One clear biblical exhortation for every church is to pray for our governing leaders. Paul encourages Timothy in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.
Each church could consider offering a weekly prayer for our elected leaders that they would make laws and set policies that promote human flourishing. One Kentucky Baptist pastor who does a good job leading in prayer for our elected leaders is Kyle McDanell, who leads a non-partisan Bible study in our State Capitol and posts daily prayer request on social media asking for prayer for Kentucky’s political leaders.
3. Build relationships with elected leaders: One thing every pastor can do is to get to know the elected leaders in your community, your county and state. The KBC can assist you in this. These leaders are your representatives and need to know that you care about the issues of the day. I once pastored in a community that was being targeted for expanded gambling. I knew our mayor and had an honest conversation with him about the harmful impact of gambling on the population of our community. As long as he was in office, he held off the push to expand gambling. You may be surprised at the power of a simple conversation with your community leaders.
4. Vote — and encourage the congregation to do the same: A report from Election Forum states that evangelical Christians make up 28% of voters, but roughly 30% are not registered to vote and, of those who are registered, 40% do not vote. If more Christians exercised their right to vote, we could impact the nation on issues related to racism, abortion, transgenderism, immigration, gay marriage and more. Since love of neighbor calls for promoting human flourishing, we can serve our neighbor by promoting and practicing a healthy involvement in the political process. Voting is the easiest thing most of us can do, and it is one way to work for the well-being of others.
My prayer for this election season is that God will be glorified, His people will have an unshakable confidence that the throne of heaven is occupied, and that God will work all things—including our elections—for His glory and for our good.
Dr. Todd Gray 