While I was on leave, the IRS announced that churches could not endorse political candidates without endangering their tax-exempt status. It’s not entirely clear how far churches can go in doing so, but it seems clear that ministers can endorse candidates from the pulpit. I have no intention of doing so. The separation of church and state is essential for the spiritual health of the church and the proclamation of the gospel. The official position of the UMC is:
“While we do not believe churches should affiliate with particular political parties, we do encourage churches to speak out boldly on social issues from a gospel perspective.” [1]
I’ve gotten into trouble for speaking out boldly on social issues from a gospel perspective. [2] That’s good trouble, and I have no intention of stopping. However, I will not bind my call and vocation to any political candidate.
[2] Actually, I don’t even have to speak boldly to get in trouble. I was once accused of meddling in politics when I gave a sermon on the book of Ruth, where I argued for the importance of loving kindness. I do not regret that sermon.