The IRS recently declared that it would not prohibit churches and pastors from endorsing candidates. For many years, churches have refrained from endorsing political candidates. Instead, they provided guidance on how their members should choose their candidates. Do you think churches and pastors endorsing candidates is the right thing to do? Let’s take a look.
IRS History with Churches
The IRS declaration on July 7 is a seismic shift from previous legislation related to 501(c)(3) organizations. Previously, churches were prohibited from endorsing political candidates under the Johnson Amendment, which was passed in 1954. The law describes tax-free status for 501(c)(3) organizations. The Johnson amendment was added and states:
“and which does not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.”
The law initially aimed to prevent churches (and other tax-exempt organizations) from becoming politically active and opposing Sen. Johnson’s re-election bid. There are arguments on both sides of the amendment:
- Critics have argued that the amendment limits free speech and religious expression, especially for clergy
- Supporters believe the amendment reinforces the separation of church and state and will prevent tax-deductible political donations.
- The amendment’s enforcement has been rare, with only one church losing its tax-exempt status.
Jesus and Politics
Jesus acknowledged the legitimacy of worldly authority, but He preached allegiance to God over everything. Mark 12:13-17 describes the attempt of some Pharisees to try to trap Jesus about paying tax to Caesar:
“They sent some Pharisees and Herodians to him to ensnare him in his speech. They came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man and that you are not concerned with anyone’s opinion. You do not regard a person’s status, but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or should we not pay?” Knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why are you testing me? Bring me a denarius to look at.” They brought one to him and he said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They replied to him, “Caesar’s.” So, Jesus said to them, “Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” They were utterly amazed at him.”
Jesus’ teachings redefined authority and challenged societal norms in His time. His disciples expected a worldly king, not a servant leader. His focus on justice and God’s mercy set an example opposite to what His disciples understood. Jesus served others, rejected violence, and preached self-sacrifice to His disciples, all while fighting injustice and bringing people to God. He had no political alignment but taught of the greater power of God.
How Does the Recent Decision Impact the Church?
This decision has the potential to impact the Church radically. We have seen greed and corruption in many political institutions widen the gap between the rich and the poor. Most Pastors will maintain their integrity in this process and preach according to Church guidelines. However, some church leaders will inevitably fall into the trap of politics.
As outlined in a previous article, The Demonization of the Catholic Church, the Catholic Church has a sustainability problem. Engaging more proactively in politics isn’t likely to help that issue. Most politicians today have positions that the Church does not support. As a Catholic, I have had to decide who was the least undesirable candidate in too many elections. I applaud the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) for declaring that the Catholic Church will not endorse political candidates. I believe this is the right decision for the Church.
In the words of Ronald Reagan:
“It has been said that politics is the second-oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first.”
Please share your thoughts on this article in the “Comments” section.
Peace
If you like this article, you might enjoy:
The Harvest: Embracing the Call for Laborers
Independence Day: Celebrating Freedom in America
Civil Rights: The Impact of the 1964 Act
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