My Last Word (For A While) On Pastors and Politics

Practical Helps for Pastors and Congregations Navigating American Politics

Several days ago, a video rounded the Internet. It showed a group of pastors and church leaders worshipping the White House. I later discovered the video showed (I believe) some of President Trump’s Faith Advisory Council. Because it’s the Internet in the 21st century, there were all sorts of predictable responses, ranging from celebration to outrage.

I wasn’t invited to that particular meeting, so I can’t comment on it nor anyone who was in attendance (although I did know a few folks who attended). I am less interested in the video itself than I am the discussion surrounding the video. The discussion surrounding the video and the entourage of pastors visiting the White House led to a robust dialogue regarding what role, precisely, pastors should play—if any—in the political process.

I have opinions on this topic. I wrote a book about it, after all. But the book didn’t get into some of the more practical thoughts I have for pastors interested in engaging in the national arena. (Local and state are a different animal, in my estimation. More on that some other time.) Since 2008, I’ve been learning about national and global political engagement from a mentor who (I would say) is a master in this arena.

Here are some of the things I’ve learned about pastors and national politics from him:

Photo by Brad Dodson on Unsplash

1. REPRESENT JESUS FIRST. The goal isn’t to get greater access or to get a picture. Instead, the goal is to state the Christian position in the corridors of power to those who make policy decisions. If you can’t do that in good conscience, don’t feel the pressure to attend. The goal is neither power nor control. The goal is to serve as the “conscience of the state” (as MLK said), when timely and appropriate. When you go after power, you lose your witness along the way.

2. KNOW WHEN TO GO AND WHEN TO SAY NO. Some invitations are for policy discussions. Others are simply photo ops to help the administration curry favor with Christians. Know the difference. Will you be able to ask hard questions? Talk with actual decision makers? If you can’t actually work on something or speak into issues, you’re likely being used as a prop for the administration. Avoid events that are simply “photo ops” and are instead designed for getting work done.

3. BE WILLING TO MEET WITH ANY PARTY. The goal is not to send a partisan message but rather to make a difference in the way our nation operates. This is why it is important to (as far as it is possible) treat all sides with respect. I have political persuasions, but if I only work with one party, then half of the time I won’t be able to help shape things.

4. DON’T (NECESSARILY) GET A PICTURE. The man I’ve learned from on this has met with every US President since Clinton. You won’t find pictures of him with them. Why? Because he doesn’t want his presence to be interpreted or used as a political weapon/tool. Can you take a picture in Washington? Sure. In front of government buildings? Depends. With national politicians? I wouldn’t, unless you have a very good reason to do so. It creates a reputation of working with a certain party. It also can be interpreted as you seeking attention/glory.

5. BE DISCREET. Closely tied to #4. This is how he puts it: “Go in the back door. Leave through the back door.” If your goal is policy and counsel and you are discreet, you may earn the trust as someone who could be an advisor in situations where you are knowledgable. If you’re someone who just wants to be “in the room where it happens,” that will be leveraged against you in ways you may not perceive. Innocent as doves, wise as serpents, etc.

6. LET YOUR WORK DO THE TALKING. Work with lower-level diplomats and officials to make a genuine difference. If you do faithful, quiet work that helps folks, you may be asked about other issues. That’s not the goal, but it may be a result.

7. KEEP YOUR INTEGRITY. Don’t feel like you have to say “yes” to something simply bc the government offers an opportunity. Sometimes access and opportunity can blind.

8. BE FRIENDS WITH EVERYONE. You don’t have to work with everyone, but it’s good to treat everyone with the love of Jesus.

There’s probably more, but that’s enough for now. Just to be clear: This isn’t a shot at anyone or their philosophy of political engagement. These are simply the things I’ve learned from my mentor’s 25 (?) years in this arena. Hope they are helpful to you.