Mike Edmisten Follower of Jesus. Husband of Nicki. Father of Ryan & Brock. Communicator of the Word.

Politics & Pastors

I make an intentional effort to avoid political discussions on my blog and in the pulpit, even though I'm a political junkie. I watch the news everyday. I listen to talk radio. I read political blogs. I'm a political junkie of the first rank…but you'd probably never know that if you read my blog or are part of my church.

I am really tired of pastors using their position to promote politics and politicians. At the very least, it is a misunderstanding of what it means to be a minister of the gospel. At worst, it is prostitution. Strong word, for sure. But when someone sells themselves out for the benefit and pleasure of another, what else would you call it?

Pastors, please stop using the pulpit to promote a political agenda. And while you're at it, please stop using Facebook, Twitter, your blog, etc. to do the same.

Now, I'm not suggesting that we don't discuss political issues at all. When a political issue is also a spiritual issue, then game on.

For example, I have never dodged issues like abortion. And homosexuality. And debt. And racism. And the entitlement mentality.

All are political hot potatoes, but they are also spiritual issues. The Bible is very clear about these issues (and many more). But when I talk about these things, I always pray that I can do it with grace and truth. Just like Jesus did (John 1:14).

Much of the political rhetoric coming from pastors today lacks grace. Or truth. Or both.

We can do better, pastors. Much, much better. We are called to preach the eternal gospel of Jesus. The King of kings. If we use our position to promote a "temporary king," we need to repent and then return to the truth of the gospel.

It doesn't matter if the temporary king is named Barack Obama. Or Newt Gingrich. Or Ron Paul. Etc. Etc. Etc. We are called to proclaim the one Name by which people may be saved (Acts 4:12). And it's not the name of any political candidate or political party.

To be clear, I do believe that we need godly people to step up and pursue political office. If a believer is called to go into politics, then go. And when you go, go all in.

But I am all in as a pastor. That means that I won't endorse any politician (and yes, I've been asked by a few local/state candidates). It means that I won't publicly support any political agenda, even though I have very strong political opinions. Being a pastor simply means that my loyalty lies with the gospel. I'll preach tough, controversial issues when the Bible is clear. And when the Bible is silent, I will be too.

If you want to know my political opinions, you'll have to ask me in a private conversation. I actually love to talk to politics…but I will not preach politics.

Let's bottom line it, pastors. If you want to preach, then preach. If you want to be a politician, go be a politician.

But please stop trying to be both.