There are at least two schools of thought when it comes to the role of pastors, elders and ministry leaders being involved in shaping public policy (i.e. laws). Some believe that pastors have no voice whatsoever in the law-making process. They hold to a view of the separation of church and state that would silence faith-based voices in the public square. Others believe that if pastors are not using their voices to speak for or against the moral issues of the day, then they are being unfaithful to their calling.
I believe pastors, elders and ministry leaders (people we trust to lead our churches and speak truth from God’s word into our lives) have much to contribute to the shaping of public policy and should prayerfully consider using their voices of influence and giving a portion of their time to that end.
On Aug. 27th the Kentucky Baptist Convention is hosting its first ever Forum on Faith and Public Policy in Louisville from noon – 3 p.m. The gathering will begin with lunch and include an agenda where we will hear elected leaders and have an opportunity to speak into issues that matter for Kentucky Baptists – and I want you to attend. Here’s why:
1. Because you are a trusted person in your community: Regardless of polls that show a diminishing influence of local church pastors, there are people in your community who value what you have to say on issues related to policy. Many trust you as a reasonable, level-headed, compassionate leader, and your opinion on proposed legislation will matter to them.
2. Because your voice is shaped by Scripture and it matters: Who better to speak to the issues of the day than a man of God who spends hours every week studying the word of God? John the Baptist was able to speak truth to power because his mind was renewed by the Scriptures. Your voice is shaped by truth and needs to be heard by elected leaders.
3. Because you love your neighbors and can serve them in this way: Jesus answered a question about the greatest commandment this way: “And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39). One way to love your neighbor is to advocate for laws that promote human flourishing. We love our unborn neighbor by speaking up for laws that recognize personhood rights. We love our young men neighbors by opposing expanded gambling, and so on.
4. Because our elected leaders value hearing from you: Talk to any Kentucky House or Senate member and you will hear stories from them having heard about the importance of a bill from special interest groups, but never having heard from any of their constituents themselves. Many of our House and Senate members are part of our local churches, and they value hearing what is on your mind. I can recall when a single conversation with a local city mayor kept expanded gambling out of our community. Your elected leaders want to hear from you when a bill is helpful or when there is legislation needed that may impact the people in your church or community.
5. Because when you are silent on public policy it gives room for other voices: In Proverbs 31:8-9 King Lemuel’s mother exhorted him, “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Those of us in ministry leadership positions, whether it be pastors, elders or ministry leaders, probably need to hear that same exhortation for ourselves. We can use our voices as we preach to God’s people, and we can also speak up through personal or written communication with our elected leaders.
Would you consider bringing your voice to the KBC Faith and Public Policy Forum on Aug. 27th at the Baptist Building in Louisville? We will begin with lunch at noon, and then move into the program to discuss matters of importance to Kentucky Baptists. Your presence matters. You can register here.
Dr. Todd Gray 