5 guidelines for communicating during an election year

Another election year is here. And since all elections should be a critical decision point for everyone, the church needs to tackle our discourse, as politics impacts all of our lives.

Elections have consequences for the community and your congregation. Therefore, our churches need to contribute prayerful guidance leading up to elections but with cautionary communication fences.

Here are 5 tips for communicating Biblically in an election year:

1. Keep the gospel the main thing. Amid political tensions, prioritize the gospel. In 1 Corinthians 15:1–2, Paul underscores the gospel’s importance because it brings eternal salvation. Regardless of political affiliations, Romans 1:16 also emphasizes the power of the gospel. Members of the early church (Acts 5:42) steadfastly proclaimed Jesus despite opposition. Maintain focus on the gospel in all your communication and channels, guided by 2 Timothy 4:2. By keeping the gospel central, you offer hope and transformation to all. This is far more important than temporal politics which can be a barrier.
2. Preach the Bible practically, not politically. During political ambiguity, offer your church audiences a biblical perspective on relevant issues. Speak truth not opinion. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Ground your church and personal communication in the timeless truths of Scripture, helping your congregation discern how to apply God’s principles to contemporary political policy. Give guidance on how to prioritize biblical values in their decision-making process and consider how to do this across all your communication channels (i.e. social media, stage, website, etc.).
3. Emphasize unity amidst diversity. In times of political polarization, it’s easy for divisions to arise within congregations. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to gospel unity despite our differences. Ephesians 4:3 reminds us to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Encourage your congregation to prioritize love and understanding over political disagreements. Remind them that our common faith in Christ transcends any political affiliation.
4. Create rules for respectful dialogue. Encourage open and respectful dialogue within your congregation, where differing viewpoints are acknowledged and valued. Proverbs 18:13 advises, “To answer before listening — that is folly and shame.” Encourage active listening and empathy, reminding your congregation that everyone’s perspective should be heard and respected. Model this behavior in your own interactions, demonstrating humility and a willingness to learn from others. Note: When you drift outside of the truth of Scripture into personal political ideas, always communicate like you may be wrong. Above all, be known for love. Consider parameters or rules for public discourse (i.e. social media) when interacting with your community who comment with different political opinions.
5. Lead by example. As a church communicator or pastor, your words and actions carry significant weight within your congregation. Titus 2:7–8 instructs, “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.” Encourage everyone to pray for all leaders of our country and be a person of prayer yourself.

Remember, the local church is a fellowship of Christ-followers doing life together. Be intentional about modeling Christlike behavior in your communication, exhibiting humility, grace and wisdom.

EDITOR’S NOTE — Mark MacDonald is a communication pastor, speaker, consultant, bestselling author, church branding strategist for BeKnownforSomething.com and executive director of Center for Church Communication, empowering 10,000+ churches to become known for something relevant (a communication thread) throughout their ministries, websites, & social media. His book, Be Known for Something, is available at BeKnownBook.com.