Politics And The Pulpit

This past weekend, the news reported that Mike Huckabee (who is an ordained minister) met with a group of pastors in the Grand Rapids, Michigan, area. Sunday, he preached in a church telling the congregation his views on same-sex marriage and abortion.

I remember a few years ago when Willow Creek invited President Clinton to speak at their pastors' conference. It caused a big stir among many — both at the conference and across the country.

For years, in the African-American community, black churches have used their pulpits to entertain political candidates. But it seems this year that Barack Obama and most of the presidential candidates are courting the church and those who are "values voters" to energize their campaigns.

What do you think about politics and the pulpit? Would you have a candidate fill your pulpit on a weekend? Do you think that those candidates who do use the church for political gain are simply being opportunistic?

As we face the primaries over the next week or so, the church will continue to be in play. In the New York Times yesterday there was a piece by David Kirkpatrick that said, "Mr. Huckabee is the only candidate in the presidential race who identifies himself as an evangelical." He goes on to say, "His (Huckabee's) candidacy is threatening to drive a wedge into the movement (evangelical)." He appears correct — though Jim Dobson and Tony Perkins seem uncommitted to date — Pat Robertson is for Rudy Giuliani; Gary Bauer for Fred Thompson; and Paul Weyrich for Mitt Romney. Who among the nation's religious leaders is for Mike Huckabee?

If there is that much differing opinion among the nation's evangelical leaders, imagine what it is like in your local congregation.

With regard to your own pulpit practices, we understand that, as a 501(c)3 organization, you can address issues from the pulpit, but may not endorse specific candidates as a representative of your church. You really need to be careful. Please check our Web site at http://www.parsonage.org/faq/A000000543.cfm for more specifics on politics and the pulpit.

So, who will you be voting for? Why not comment here and tell us your thoughts.  Have a great week!