Yeah, I guess I was a little surprised at the reaction to the white paper in the post below, but at the same time, there is a historical precedent for the churches being involved in the politics of this country:
Many modern clerics would probably be surprised to learn of the active role colonial preachers had in America's fight for independence. It is no exaggeration to say that had it not been for the activism of America's pulpits, our independence would never have been won and this nation would not even exist.
Until at least the Twentieth Century, it was well known that the “Black Regiment” was an intricate, even crucial, part of America's successful break with the Crown. They were called the black regiment, because of the black robes they wore when preaching.
The Black Regiment was composed of men of various Christian denominations who courageously championed the cause of liberty and independence and who preached fervently and faithfully the message of redemption and Biblical authority.
In the thinking and preaching of the Black Regiment, freedom and independence were precious gifts of God not to be trampled under foot by men, human authority was limited and particular and subject to proper divine parameters, and the soul and mind of man were never to be enslaved by any master save Christ Himself
Preachers of the black robes were found among Baptists, Presbyterians, Episcopalians, German Reformed, Lutherans, Congregationalists, and others. They were young and old, loud and soft-spoken, rough and gentle, and urban and rural.
John Adams, second president of the United States, once remarked, "It is the duty of the clergy to accommodate their discourses to the times, to preach against such sins as are most prevalent, and recommend such virtues as are most wanted.
Of course, it was those different flavors of Christianity that the founding fathers had in mind when they penned these words:
Amendment 1 December 15, 1791
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
Politics touches several points in every citizen's life. Where best to begin with an analysis other than with the party's platform?
On the issue of human life, the Dems say:
The Democratic Party strongly and unequivocally supports Roe v. Wade and a woman’s right to choose a safe and legal abortion, regardless of ability to pay, and we oppose any and all efforts to weaken or undermine that right.”
The Republicans say:
"Faithful to the first guarantee of the Declaration of Independence, we assert the inherent dignity and sanctity of all human life and affirm that the unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a human life amend to the Constitution.”
And the Bible says:
Behold, children are a gift of the Lord; the fruit of the womb is a reward – Psalm 127:3
My frame was not hidden from Thee, when I was made in secret – Psalm 139:15
Thus says the Lord who made you and formed you in the womb – Isaiah 44:2
There are six things which the Lord hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him… hands that shed innocent blood – Proverbs 6:16 &17a
On Marriage, the Dems say:
“We support the full inclusion of all families, including same-sex couples, in the life of our nation, and support equal responsibility, benefits, and protections. We will enact a comprehensive bipartisan employment non-discrimination act. We oppose the Defense of Marriage Act and all attempts to use this to divide us.”
And the Republicans say:
“Because our children’s future is best preserved within the traditional understanding of marriage, we call for a constitutional amendment that fully protects marriage as a union of a man and a woman, so that judges cannot make other arrangements equivalent to it.”
And the Bible says:
If there is a man who lies with a male as those who lie with a woman, both of them have committed a detestable act – Lev 20:13
God gave them up unto vile affections… their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature… the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men – Romans 1:26-27
know, that no whoremonger (male prostitute)… hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience – Ephesians 5:5,6
On finances and taxes, the Dems say:
“America cannot afford to continue to run up huge deficits… The key is to make tough choices, in particular enforcing pay-as-you-go budgeting rules.”
And the Republicans say:
“We favor adoption of the Balanced Budget Amendment to require a balanced federal budget except in time of war. Earmarking must stop. To eliminate wasteful projects and pay-offs to special interests, we will impose an immediate moratorium on the earmarking system and reform the appropriations process through full transparency.”
And the Bible says:
Owe no man anything – Romans 13:8
The borrower is servant to the lender – Proverbs 22:7b
He that hateth gifts shall live – Proverbs 15:27
Many will entreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts – Proverbs 19:6
Finally, on the subject of religious freedom, the Dems say:
“Democrats will fight to end discrimination based on race, sex, ethnicity, national origin, language, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age and disability in every corner of our country, because that’s the American we believe in.”
The Republicans say:
“Our Constitution guarantees the free exercise of religion and forbids any religious test for public office, and it likewise prohibits the establishment of a state-sponsored creed. The balance between those two ideals has been distorted by judicial rulings which attempt to drive faith out of the public arena. The public display of the Ten Commandments does not violate the U.S. Constitution and accurately reflects the Judeo-Christian heritage of our country.”
And the Bible says:
“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light, and light for darkness...”
Now, it seems to me that there is a lot of potential for conflict on the Dems plank, and if it came to respecting "sexual orientation" or religion, I think I can safely guess which one takes a backseat.
Not telling anyone how to vote. Just wanted an informed decision for believers. Take it as you please.
H/T to Pastor Bruce for all of his research.
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