Recent survey by Focus on the Family
On April 25, 2008, Pastoral Ministry’s Vice President H.B. London asked what you were thinking about political correctness in the pulpit. We would like to express our thanks to those of you who responded by taking the time to let us know how you feel about being “politically correct” in the pulpit.
The results of the survey are as follows:
1. Do you know what you can and cannot do from your pulpit without putting your 501(c)3, non-profit (*tax exempt status of your church) standing in jeopardy (politically speaking)?
Yes: 83% No: 17%
2. Do you often make political or issues-related statements from your pulpit?
Yes: 41% No: 59%
3. When you address issues such as abortion, homosexuality, ballot initiatives or “get out the vote,” are you ever criticized?
Yes: 31% No: 69%
4. Does your church board (deacons, elders, etc.) give you carte blanche to make or address political or moral issues without their consensus of opinion?
Yes: 86% No: 14%
5. Do you feel the open pulpit is the place for you to make politically laced comments?
Yes: 36% No: 64%
6. If you do make said comments publicly, have you paid a price for the statements you have made?
Yes: 29% No: 71%
7. Would you allow a voter registration table to be set up in your church foyer?
Yes: 82% No: 18%
8. Have you distributed “voter’s guides” within your church body?
Yes: 79% No: 21%
9. In a public sermon, would you be open to challenging the IRS guidelines related to what you can say or do as a 501(c)3 organization (a type of civil disobedience)?
Yes: 46% No: 54%
10. Do you most often agree with the political issues addressed by Focus on the Family Action?
Yes: 97% No: 3%
The results in this survey have no revelation in its finding, however past informal surveys on this subject showed a more restrained attitude.
Our world is changing. The church needs to continue to be there as a rock for our community. We must be steadfast and a beacon to those who live among and who are discouraged. Share with others the hope in the Lord our savior. Psalm 27:1 “The Lord is my light and my salvation – so why should I be afraid?”
Have confidence knowing with certainty that we have salvation in an eternal home that awaits us. If you have questions or doubts about your eternal security, talk to your pastor or local clergy for answers. They are there to help you.
Stay focused on the King, Bill
