‘Politics and the pulpit’

‘Politics and the pulpit’

After reading the Feb. 16 issue of The Alabama Baptist, which had an article titled “Politics and the pulpit” on the front page, I thought about how I have often wondered about this issue.

Should we push for the candidate we think is best or should we leave that topic silent? I’m conservative and I know the majority of church members where I worship feel the same.

However, on a recent Sunday in church we had sitting next to us an  African-American lady whom my wife and I have ministered to. As our pastor spoke about Russia and the danger of government sanctions against people openly sharing the gospel our friend uttered something about the “president.” I assume she meant President Donald Trump, as if she saw him potentially preventing Christians from speaking openly.

If my church openly supported Trump I doubt she’d ever come back and our ministry to her would either end or be severely curtailed. As I thought about that I realized the answer is not “politics” from the pulpit but “principles.”

If we teach God’s Word, the truth about issues such as abortion and the sanctity and character of marriage will be apparent. People who love God and know His Word should make their decisions accordingly. That’s the goal I believe we should have for our churches.

Robert L. Van Elsberg
Enterprise, Ala.