How can religion not guide politics?
To the Editor:
A recent opinion written in this publication proclaimed: “One role of the church is charity — politics is not and should not be.” The author outlined why the church should not be involved in politics due to IRS tax exemption rules.
As to churches engaging in politics as it relates to paying taxes, let’s quote from The Church Law Center: “IRS guidelines indicate that a church can still engage in nonpartisan political activity without violating these rules. For example, a church can distribute nonpartisan voter information (such as a collection of statements by different candidates). A church can also host debates among candidates. A key focus in these examples will be whether a particular candidate is shown favor, or if the activity is truly neutral.”
But let’s dig deeper into the conclusion of the aforementioned opinion — that politics should not be a role of the church. I entirely disagree for this reason: the “church” is composed of individual people, some of whom are true Christians who view the Bible as God’s living inspired word and follow — to the best of their ability — the instructions contained in it. In other words, it represents Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth (BIBLE).
Many verses in the Bible encourage followers of Jesus to rely on His indwelling Holy Spirit as their very own holy counselor, guide and teacher to make decisions in their everyday lives Here is one example: In Proverbs 3 verse 6 the Lord says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Frankly speaking, how can someone exclude their political decisions from that command?
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