What's a Methodist To Do About Politics?

Super Tuesday has now come and gone and Georgia has had it's say until the election. I know there are countless blogs reflecting every aspect of the process. As my life took the turn into the pulpit, I've been amazed how much people want to know about my stands on candidates.

It really hasn't been a struggle for me. I've been fairly upfront that I don't endorse candidates and who I vote for isn't really anyone else's concern. That isn't the take for other pastors and that is certainly fine for them. However, don't take that to mean I don't care or I'm not concerned.

As I read Mark Tooley's article, Asbury, Itinerant Leader, I was reminded of our Methodist heritage and of Francis Asbury's distinctive leadership...

Unlike Some of his modern mainline Protestant successors, who advocate a stale 20th century Social Gospel, Asbury had little direct interest in politics, despite living during some of history most revolutionary times. "Methodist preachers politicians! What a curse!" he once remarked.

Even if the church itself did not become politically active, Methodist individuals became renowned for their reforming zeal. But their main focus was always on the Gospel.

The hope of the world is not going to be found in politics but in Christians living out the Gospel Jesus spoke of. That is what I think Asbury modeled and where I stand, a Social Gospel with the emphasis on the Gospel.

So Christ came and preached the Good News of peace to all---to you Gentiles, who were far away from God, and to the Jews, who were near to him. It is through Christ that all of us, Jews and Gentiles, are able to come in the one Spirit into the presence of the Father. (Ephesians 2:17-18 GNB)


May I Ask: Have you found it possible to separate you faith and your politics as some claim?

May I Suggest: Think about or research someone who you think represents your thoughts on faith and politics. Share it here!