Like most pastors who lead thriving evangelical megachurches, the Rev. Gregory A. Boyd was asked frequently to give his blessing — and the church’s — to conservative political candidates and causes.
The requests came from church members and visitors alike: Would he please announce a rally against gay marriage during services? Would he introduce a politician from the pulpit? Could members set up a table in the lobby promoting their anti-abortion work? Would the church distribute “voters’ guides” that all but endorsed Republican candidates? And with the country at war, please couldn’t the church hang an American flag in the sanctuary?
After refusing each time, Mr. Boyd finally became fed up, he said. Before the last presidential election, he preached six sermons called “The Cross and the Sword” in which he said the church should steer clear of politics, give up moralizing on sexual issues, stop claiming the United States as a “Christian nation” and stop glorifying American military campaigns.
“When the church wins the culture wars, it inevitably loses,” Mr. Boyd preached. “When it conquers the world, it becomes the world. When you put your trust in the sword, you lose the cross.”
As anybody who visits this site frequently knows, I am not a believer. But I have nothing but respect for people who are of a strong faith so long as they do not feel the need to push their beliefs into my life.
This Pastor, and his church, are exactly the kind of spiritual leaders that this country needs many more of. Instead of treating his flock as if they were really sheep that he can lead anywhere he wants to, he is respecting their individuality and free choice.
This is a church where you can have real honest discussions about your political views and not worry that you are going to be ostracized.
I hope other churches follow this brave man's lead. For the good of our country.
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Don't feed the trolls!
It just goes directly to their thighs.