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Politics in the Church

Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons (James and John) came to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down, asked a favor of Him. “What is it you want?” Jesus asked. She said, “Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right hand and the other at your left in your kingdom.” (Matthew 20:20-21)

Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant. (Matthew 20:27)

During this U.S. Presidential political season, many people are acutely sensitive and are now constantly evaluating and reevaluating their traditional feelings about politics. In thinking about it personally, I’ve observed some striking similarities in secular politics and what is described as politics in the church.

We’ve all heard this statement, “Absolute power corrupts absolutely.” It’s true. Without proper safeguards and accountability, it happens.

And it is also true that whatever any organization rewards, it also reproduces.
If it rewards radicalism, it also reproduces radicalism.
If it rewards mediocrity, it also reproduces mediocrity.
If it rewards achievers and producers, it also reproduces achievers and producers.
If it rewards creativity, it also reproduces creativity.
You get the picture.

True leadership should openly strive for the authoritative allocation of value.

But I’m sure you have also noticed that the most qualified leaders are not always elected through a political process resulting from the popular vote. Disappointingly, it is certainly true in secular politics. And even more disappointingly, it is also true in church politics. For some reason, we have come to expect better quality results from politics in the church than in the secular world.

The Real World of Church Politics

Let’s face it. Human relationships can get off track, even in the church. Although you and I would hope for, and may even work toward, a perfect fellowship and a perfect operational system in the church where we serve, the truth is, it just doesn’t happen.

There’s probably almost nobody completely satisfied with what goes on in the church at every level – local, state, regional, national and international – if for no other reason than because we can’t run things ourselves in our own way. We tend to wonder why our prayer isn’t answered, “Thy will be done, in earth, as it is in heaven.” And why the Holy Spirit doesn’t immediately straighten everything out – right now.

Politics in the church. What are the implications for us in our work for God?

Obviously, I’m speaking of the earthly expression of the church. I’m referring to “church” as it is presently constituted on earth, and not to the universal spiritual church, the church triumphant, whose members are known only to the Omniscient God.

Parallels in Secular Politics and Church Politics

• Politics represents the attainment and exercise of power and influence.
• Politics results in who gets what, when, where, and how.
• Politics is the production of intended effects.
• Politics is the art of saying what the most people want to hear.
• Perception is the only reality that counts.
• Elements of successful leadership include both conflict and consensus, alliances and antagonisms, and at times warfare, both ideological and rhetorical.
• Confrontation on “issues” becomes almost unavoidable.
• Staking out a position on populist issues is almost inevitable.

Immediately after Jesus revealed the ordeal He would face in His near future –mocking, flogging, crucifixion, and resurrection – came this innocent-sounding request from one of the church’s classic stage mothers:

But what this request really embodied was nepotism: 1) publicly honoring only her family members, and 2) a personal request for preferential treatment and favor for her sons.

This signaled a possible beginning of a struggle for dominance and power. This untimely request was raw nepotism and proved to be a distraction, which also triggered anger in the other disciples that Zebedee’s wife would ever stoop so low. (Please see verses 22-24.)

New Testament Evidences of Politics in the Early Church

Early in the Book of Acts, just when the early church was getting started and you would have expected everything to be going great, controversy arose over the feeding of widows. Some were being given favored treatment; others were being neglected. Peter then recommended the appointment of the first church deacons, whose responsibility it would be to see that equity was maintained (Acts 6:1-7). Politics in the church.

Once when the socially outcast Samaritans angered the disciples, James and John asked why Jesus didn’t just give them power to call down fire from heaven and destroy the town as Elijah did (See Luke 9:51-56). Politics in the church.

Judas Iscariot, the treasurer, complained that Mary wasted money when she anointed Jesus with expensive perfume. “It would have been far better,” Judas argued, “to have taken that money and given it to the poor” (Matthew 26:9). Politics in the church.

History tells us that James, the brother of Jesus, was the first bishop of the Jerusalem church; but Peter also played a leading role. It was Peter whom the Lord used to take the Gospel message to the Gentiles at the home of Cornelius (See Acts 10). Being a Jew, Peter found this difficult. God had to shake him up through a powerful vision. Only then would Peter agree to enter the home of a Gentile. Afterwards, even though the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles, and even though God had indicated His grace was available to all men regardless of race, the elders in Jerusalem were still reluctant to grant full acceptance to those outside traditional Judaism (See Acts 11:1-18). Politics in the church.

What these examples confirm is that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ simply does not necessarily remove all human differences and all challenges in human relationships. Peter and Paul were both great men, men touched and anointed of God; but they were still men, still human, and still capable of mistakes and disagreements. These examples also lead us to conclude that it is not logical to expect the church on earth today to be perfect.

In fact, what we label and sometimes denounce as politics in the church, may not be all bad. Most of us condemn only certain elements of what has come to be for us, socially and spiritually, the normal and accepted way of doing business. For example, we may condemn the churchman who lets it be known he desires a certain position, but we praise and value the system, which permits us to cast a meaningful vote in the first place. It is true that our system in the church is far from perfect, and generally those who occupy leadership positions are not perfect, either. But neither are we.

We help vote people into positions of influence and authority, and then whine and complain throughout their entire term, and state unequivocally that we are going to vote them out of their position at our first opportunity. In my opinion there is very little support and almost no prayer offered for God to grant them His divine grace to lead. Often there is not even the slightest effort to apply the golden rule to “do unto others as if we were the ‘others.’” Some cannot lead. They will not follow.

Scriptural Solutions to Politics in the Church

Jesus taught His disciples, and us, that everything done in the church should have service primarily in mind – Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant (Matthew 20:27). This concept establishes precise guidelines for the church on earth.

Those who aspire to lead, who seek position, should always do so to serve, not for honor, prestige, or personal gain. At the same time, those we choose to lead, those for whom we cast votes and thereby place in positions of power, should be men and women duly equipped and qualified to serve – not someone we simply admire or someone popular or with a one-dimensional talent or ability. His primary purpose in filling his leadership position should not be to simply get re-elected so he can finish building his own political dynasty, but to serve Christ and serve the church with faith and spiritual authority, along with our prayers and support, and with the heart of a servant.

The early church gave specific instructions for the choosing of deacons. The disciples pointed out first of all that, even in the church, some tasks are more important than others. This calls for setting priorities from God’s view. It was inappropriate for the disciples to give up preaching the Word to administer welfare to the widows. Others would be chosen for that task – men of honest report, men full of the Holy Ghost, and men of wisdom (See Acts 6:3). These deacons would take care of the routine church business so that the disciples could give themselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word (See Acts 6:4).

Today, when we choose leaders in the church, we would avoid many problems if we would simply follow the Scriptural pattern. In other words, making certain our leaders at every level are men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom – this will bring politics in the church into perspective.

Further instructions on the matter of leaders was given by Paul in his first letter to Timothy. “It isn’t wrong,” Paul wrote, “for a man to desire the office of bishop. He desires a good work.” (See I Timothy 3:1)

But let’s look at the qualifications for such an office. The qualifications are clear. The standards are high.

A Bishop must be:

blameless – the husband of one wife – vigilant – sober – of good behavior – given to hospitality – apt to teach – not given to wine – no striker – not greedy for money – patient – not a brawler – not covetous – one who rules well his own house – having his children in subjection with all gravity – not a novice – with good report of them outside the church – grave – not double-tongued – holding the mystery of the faith in pure conscience – proven blameless – with a wife who is also grave, not slanderous – faithful in all things. (I Timothy 3:1-11)

Clearly, God’s Word tells us what types of leaders are needed in the church. Basically, the same standards for bishops also apply for the selection of deacons in the local church. God has set up His standards for us to follow in every way and at every level.

And, you will notice that nowhere does it say that they must all be preachers or pastors or have a marked out career path within the church. We should seek out the most qualified person. Wherever there is an opening that does not specifically call for a preacher to fill it, then we should be open to utilizing business leaders, construction workers, teachers, beekeepers, fishermen, farmers, lawyers, doctors, engineers – anyone who fits the scriptural criteria to be considered for positions of authority at any level. What we don’t need are so-called “professional leaders.” Regrettably, that’s almost all who are ever elected – whether as a head of state or within the denominational church organization.

It is obvious that the use of the term “politics in the church” can have either a positive or a negative ring to it. If, by even referencing such a term, we refer to selfish motives, to carnal ambitions, to ego massage, or to cheap political manipulation and human intimidation, then we must all condemn and reject such practices with boldness and stop at once rewarding any such behavior; then, alter our electoral standards before voting the next time.

On the other hand, if we use the term “politics in the church” to designate organized methods by which the Body of Christ on Earth conducts business and sends forth the good news of the Gospel, then we deal with a positive solution to an ongoing human relations challenge.

Since Jesus made service to others a chief tenet of His teachings, we should make serving the Lord and others the object of our efforts on this earth until Jesus comes again.

At 211 degrees, water is hot.
                At 212 degrees, water boils.
                               And with boiling water comes steam.
                                              And steam can power a locomotive.

It’s that extra one degree, just one, that makes a world of difference. And often, it’s that one extra degree of effort in servanthood, and in life, that separates the good from the great.

The beauty of 212 degrees is not only its simplicity, but also its many applications. This principle can be applied not only to 212 degrees in service, but 212 degrees in attitude, 212 degrees in vision, 212 degrees in leadership, 212 degrees in genuine kindness, 212 degrees in commitment, 212 degrees in focus; and the list goes on.

Whether you’re a layman in the pew, a preacher in the pulpit, or an elected or officially appointed leader in the highest realms of church government, you’ll get it. In fact, once you’ve heard this simple uncomplicated analogy for excellence, it’ll be hard to ever forget.*

At every level, the church today is in desperate need of – and is deserving of – God-called leaders who are a full 212 degrees in every positive category.

Carl Richardson

* Used by permission, 212: The Extra Degree by Simple Truths, LLC, Mac Anderson, Naperville, IL USA

Feedback

As always, my friend, your words are right on target! Nothing else needs to be said.

Rev. Ron Sanderson
Gainesville, FL

Great words. Thanks for your insight.

Pastor Rodney Mullins
Columbus, OH

Well said, Brother Carl! Blessings!

Dan Moore, Senior Pastor
Living Waters Church O.C.
Huntington Beach, California

I really appreciated your article! Be blessed!

Sam Belisle
Sr. Pastor, Penn Forest COG
Roanoke, Virginia

“Our political structure has become self-defeating.”

Thanks for your treatise on “Politics in the Church.” Hopefully, a new boldness will grip many hearts and give us statesmen who will speak for the good of the Body and to the glory of God. We are in a precarious strait – a critical moment as a denomination. Our political structure has become self-defeating. We need bold and innovative change.

Dr. Harold Bare, Senior Pastor
Covenant Church of God
Charlottesville, Virginia

“You hit the nail directly on the head time after time.”

In reading your article it becomes very clear that you are writing with a lot of personal conviction and experience behind you. My own experience after 51 years of full-time ministry and being involved with church organizations worldwide, indicates this is where you will find the most underhanded political endeavors and personal interest maneuvers in the whole wide world. Jesus, Himself, during His few years on earth – and especially His last 3 years – came face to face with religious political factors and had to teach, rebuke and warn these church politicians at nearly every occasion. Brother Carl, you hit the nail directly on the head time after time. It is well-written and truthful. It is written diplomatically, but without pulling any punches. I agree whole-heartedly and congratulate you in the Name of Jesus.

Missionary Paul van Zyl
New Hope Ministries
Mpumalanga, South Africa

“A timely and thought-provoking article.”

Thank you, Brother Richardson, for a timely and thought-provoking article. I pray it is read throughout the Church as we approach a time of decision for our movement. God bless you for sharing this message.

Reverend Les Higgins
State Director of Youth and C.E.
Birmingham, Alabama

“This is a great article!”

I just finished reading your latest issue of “Beyond Borders.” I am always blest and inspired by the incredible insights the Lord has given to you. This is a great article!

Dr. R. Lamar Vest
Executive Vice President
American Bible Society
Cleveland, Tennessee

“Fascinating and profound, yet simple.”

I have just read and re-read your blog on “Politics in the Church.” It is fascinating and profound, yet simple. After all, we ARE preaching Jesus who was born into the poorest of the poor families of this world, but never complained of his poverty. He was considered to be an illiterate man by the pundits of His day who were often confused and confounded by His teachings, his lifestyle, and his simplicity. He served the underserved and undeserved. Jesus was the Servant of Yawe (Isaiah 53) and proved Himself to be so while on earth. May the Lord use your blog to bring much needed change in the Church of today around the world!

G. Moses Choudary
Founding Pastor
Hyderabad, India

“The church … is now stuck in yesterday.”

I’m glad that you have begun to share your writings with the ministers and laity throughout the church through your website. You and I have something in common in that Mrs. Dorothy Stewart (your first convert as a 15-year-old preacher) served as my clerk in Centerburg, Ohio and I understand is still active in the church there. … I’ve been honored to preach in 37 countries, served with Ministry to the Military in Europe, served on the European Council and the Tennessee State Council, but all that rings hollow. … For 33 years of my life, I have given joyfully to the ministry of the church that is now stuck in yesterday. … I have been cast aside so often that I am now void of much real hope for the church. … But your recent writings have given me new hope for a rational and spiritual voice in the Church of God.

John Hughes, THb
Newport Church
Newport, Tennessee

“Politics (for the sake of politics) forfeits the blessings of God … .”

Politics should not exist in the church but seems to be stronger than ever in the church. Politics promotes “cronyism,” boot lackeys, and favoritism to “buddies.” Politics promotes unrealistic and false promises and often promises more appointments than actually exist. Politics (for the sake of politics) forfeits the blessings of God to seek power, authority and control. God will not bless such political and carnal motives. Political maneuvering in the church wounds and even destroys ministers and their families. Politics causes much division and loss of friendships. You are right on target when you stated in your article “at every level, the church today is in desperate need of – and is deserving of – God-called leaders who are a full 212 degrees in every positive category.” Oh how the church needs servant leaders who are a full 212 degrees hot, steam-producing and locomotive-empowering men.

Reverend C. Jerry Noble
Charleston, Tennessee

“… a spiritual father and an effective mentor …”

God is anointing you mightily as a spiritual father and an effective mentor to many throughout the Body of Christ – including me.

Gaspar Anastasi
Founding Pastor, Word of Life
Fort Myers, Florida

“What we denounce as politics in the Church, may not be all bad.”

I read your article “Politics in the Church” and found it very informative. I found it helpful to know that what we sometimes denounce as politics in the Church, may not be all bad. I appreciate the way you explained this. Carl, as I read your article, I could just see you in your “writer’s chair” in your Study, receiving all this wisdom from God and from experience only time can give, and no money can buy. I can also see in my mind’s eye that you continue your writing in a book form and publish it to the hungry people of God. I pray that this will happen and that you will leave a legacy to the Church throughout the world. After all, this is a major way we can bring the gospel to our descendants. May God bless this wonderful gift He has given you for a purpose.

Ellie van Zyl
Leader, The Maranatha Group
Barberton, South Africa

“… creates an unhealthy climate and feeds unethical behavior …”

Your article on “Politics in the Church” is stimulating. At the age of 15, I was at the General Assembly in Columbus, Ohio when a general overseer was removed from office by imposing a percentage requirement for his reelection to the office of general overseer. He had been in office nine years, but a more forceful leader wanted to be the general overseer. I have heard it expressed that tenure limitation was a result of the Tomlinson experience, but in my view, the 1946 Columbus, Ohio General Assembly was the beginning of tenure limitation. Following Columbus came limitation on state overseers, executive committee members, and department leaders. While there is some interest in reversing this trend as evidenced by the reengineering of administrative bishop tenures, we remain tied to the idea of limitation.

It is obvious that an organization cannot continuously produce great leaders. We use them up as often as tenure limitation demands. To be objective, one has to note that the opening of so many offices through limitation of tenure, has made it possible for a large number of people to have a chance at becoming a leader. But tenure limitation has made it necessary to lose some of the great ones. And more importantly, to get to the point you have made, the fact that so many offices regularly come open, tends to create an unhealthy climate and feeds the unethical behavior so often accompanying political decisions. Politics, as a way of making choices by election, is not essentially bad. But politics becomes bad when selfishness and devious behavior influence decisions. On the other hand, some politics is just enjoying a good election. One must only observe the drop in voting in the General Council when the International Executive Committee nominations are completed. For one, I love a good election. I just wish I could cast my vote based on my view of the quality of the leadership rather than time in office. Change is needed, and the International Executive Council will have to be the catalyst.

Dr. Donald S. Aultman
Chancellor, Church of God
Division of Education
Int. Dir. Min. Development
School of Ministry
Cleveland, Tennessee

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