Guest Editorial: Mixing Politics and Religion Divides God's People
Jesus would not be a Democrat or a Republican and America is not a 'Christian Nation,' writes this pastor
The following is a guest editorial by Pastor Kelsey Eberth of New Song Community Church:
As a local Christian pastor and lifelong follower of Jesus, I feel compelled to respond to the growing rhetoric surrounding the intersection of Christians and politics. During this election season, it feels imperative to clarify that America is not a Christian nation. To dictate governance by any single faith would be incompatible with basic principles of our democracy.
America's foundational principles emphasize the separation of church and state, cultivating a pluralistic society where diverse beliefs could co-exist.
The First Amendment codifies religious freedom stating:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof."
Our nation's founders sought to build a democracy where no single religion could dominate public policy.
As a follower of Jesus, I am baffled and disheartened by the misinformation issued by many Christians regarding public education. I believe local public schools are essential to a thriving democracy. Equal access to quality education empowers our children and builds informed and engaged communities. As Christians, we are called to care for the least among us. Investing in public education is a direct way to fulfill that command.
The purpose of the church is not to tell people how to think, live, and vote. As Christians, I believe we are called to be a source of hope, love, and healing. Our churches ought to reflect our diverse communities. Safe places to gather and grow in love. Where we can bring our whole selves and find welcome, connection, and kindness. I believe my role as a religious leader is to shepherd and encourage my congregation. Equipping fellow believers to serve their neighbors through self-giving love.
In this information age, it is easy to equate information with facts. The danger of this mistake cannot be overstated. Pay attention to the loud, authoritative voices of people who claim to be the sole bearer of “truth.” We must follow Jesus’ model of discernment and wisdom. We must commit to active listening, curiosity, and growth. These practices are essential to decision making and creating a culture of accountability.
Our faith in Jesus should inspire justice, mercy, and compassion. Anything that co-opts faith for political gain is antithetical to the gospel. Jesus modeled a careful approach to politics, focusing on the values of the Kingdom of God, not political groups. Jesus would not be a Republican or Democrat. His allegiance, and ours, lies with a higher moral calling. No matter the outcome of this election, our work as people of faith stays the same: act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8).
The heart of the gospel is the Creator’s extravagant love. A love for everyone, full of forgiveness, mercy, compassion, and grace. What author Sally Lloyd-Jones calls, “The never stopping- never giving up - always and forever love.”
A love bigger and stronger and more outrageous than any religious or political box we could cram it into. May we cast our votes through the lens of that extravagant love. A love that includes you and me and the least of these. A love that extends beyond political parties or even religious authorities. May our faith guide us towards promoting the common good, including supporting local public schools and carefully evaluating the information we receive. May we all advocate for a society that values every person, every voice.
I believe the heartbeat of this valley is generosity, community, and connection. May we all live that out, honoring and protecting liberty and justice for all.
Sincerely,
Pastor Kelsey Eberth
A Final Word From Mike Magnotti
My friend and host of “Street Talk and Other Stuff” on NCWlife also addressed this subject recently on local television in North Central Washington.
Here’s what he had to say:
You can catch a new episode of Magnotti’s show every Monday on local cable, or online.
Thank you to Pastor Eberth for submitting this guest editorial. If you’d like to learn more about New Song Community Church, you can visit their website here.
Thanks to Pastor Eberth for writing this courageous and concise reflection on the role of Christians in these United States and the world. I see no biblical example of Christ tapping political offices or institutions as the vehicle for sharing the good news of the Gospel. I fail to understand how those who present themselves as followers of Christ endorse politics as a path for doing so. This is not to say that Christians are not called to service through political positions. However, such service would bear the stamp of the character of Christ. Thanks also to Dominick for publishing this letter.
Thx Dominick for being a vehicle for Pastor Eberth's timely comments. I wish more would! And I wish this publication had a much wider audience! I imagine Jesus is very sad indeed about how the Words of God are being twisted and used for conceit and to subjugate. And to spread hate. And to LIE about the foundations of this country!