Rod Parsely, televangelist from Ohio, is following John Hagee’s footsteps in endorsing John McCain for president it seems. Here’s another “evangelical leader” (quotes are quite intentional) becoming a power player in American politics- or so they would think. It must be irresistible to be courted by a presidential campaign as they were. It must be irresistible to consider the potential invitations to the inaugural, the White House, and other presidential perks if your man wins.

As a pastor I find this both embarrassing and infuriating. When pastors take this step they diminish the place and role of the church and thus diminish the gospel message the church is to proclaim. Instead of fulfilling a prophetic role and standing above politics, they relegate the church to just another special interest group- in this case the evangelical vote.

God is not a Republican or a Democrat. He’s the Sovereign Lord of all the universe. As His church we stand for the gospel and Biblical truth but not for political parties. Should Christians be involved in leadership and politics? Absolutely. We need many more like William Wilberforce in our nation. But the Church should stay above the political fray and speak Biblical truth to the issues of our day regardless of party.