Let me put a stop to this right now because, if I do not, it’s only going to get worse. I will NOT be endorsing ANY political candidate and/or political party from this blog or from the NewSpring stage!!!
Folks, as a pastor I am to lift up one man—Jesus Christ, not the “Savior” that a party puts out every four years.
As a pastor I am supposed to be about advancing the kingdom of God—not the kingdom of the red or blue (or green.)
And…let me be honest, to ANY church and/or pastor that does do political endorsements…you are a prostitute that has sold out the Gospel of Christ is exchange for four more years of promises and predictions. STOP IT!
Now, on the other hand, I am NOT a pastor who thinks a Christian should bury his/her head in the sand when it comes to the political world. I have very strong political opinions…and I have really great friends who are heavily involved in politics.
I think EVERY Christian on the planet should vote this way…first, spend time seeking the Lord and asking for His guidance…THEN vote. (Most people have it the opposite way…they vote and then pray that God will allow things to go their way.)
Seriously, pray—THEN vote. That’s it—pray, THEN vote. I am convinced that the Holy Spirit is a MUCH better leader than the stupid television adds that basically attack and slander. Pray…then vote. It really is THAT easy.
Who am I voting for in 2008? I honestly don’t know…but I WILL pray…and then vote. And no, I will not declare on this site or from stage who I voted for…but if you ask me person to person I will tell you…BUT, I will not argue with you if you voted for the other person.
Once again…I am NOT endorsing anyone! I will meet with any candidate, pray with them and serve them in any other way the Lord provides…but NO endorsements. Jesus Christ saved me—NOT a political party. And the church was NOT created by God to be a pawn of some political platform. We are to be about God’s Kingdom—not mans.
One more thing…please do not send me any e-mails saying that you respect me for upholding separation of church and state. Folks…the phrase “separation of church and state” is nowhere in the Constitution. It blows my mind how educated people can pass legislation based upon phrasing that exists nowhere in the original documents of our founding fathers. Once again—Christians have EVERY right and responsibility to be involved in the political process…but should do so under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
I am learning that no matter who is the head of government—God reigns. In reading through Scripture this past year it was so obvious to me that governments, no matter how “good” or corrupt, are mere opportunities for God to demonstrate His Sovereignty and grace. He used foreign kings to rebuild the temple and the wall around Jerusalem (Ezra and Nehemiah) and if He did it then He can still do it today. (Hebrews 13:8)
My passion is Jesus…my obsession in His Kingdom…He is Lord and I can not surrender promoting Him every week in favor of a politician. (And pastor, neither should you!)