What If Pastors Were Like Some Politicians?

Nar B W Chlld Covering EyesGenerally, I avoid politics. That’s not to say I avoid voting or my civic duty. In fact, since I turned eighteen about a hundred years ago, I have always voted (though not always for a candidate you might expect).

As a pastor, and the leader of a church with Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians and probably an anarchist or two, I’m careful not to take sides. And for those wondering, I’m not making a political endorsement now either.

However . . .

Does truth matter?

Absolutely.

Is it okay that we live in a “post-truth political world”? No. Not at all.

Truth and trust always matter. And for the record, it seems that candidates from both major parties seem to have a problem with telling the truth.

What? Politicians lie?!

Uh . . . yeah.

And so do preachers from time to time.

But no one wants a lying wolf for a pastor. No one sane.

Because they are leaders in the Church, we hold pastors and priests to a pretty high standard, and we should.

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Most of us would never tolerate a pastor who . . .

Is a liar

Is rude and crude

Is mean and divisive

Is image rich but character poor

Is focused on himself and his needs (a narcissist)

Most of us would fire a pastor who . . .

Acts like a bully

Swears on a regular basis from the pulpit

Shifts his theology to suit the crowd

Has a weak moral compass

We expect a certain level of moral character from our spiritual leaders, and rightfully so. But perhaps we should hold politicians to a higher standard since they lead everybody.

Some will say, “We aren’t electing a pastor-and-chief!” and I would agree. But our commander-and-chief has more influence and power than any pastor on the planet.

Maybe his or her character matters too?

Politics Lie Truth

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Kurt Bubna

Kurt W. Bubna has published seven books, is an internationally recognized blogger, conference and retreat speaker, as well as an experienced life and leadership coach. Bubna has over forty years of experience working with individuals, teams, and a wide variety of business and non-profit organizations.

This Post Has 9 Comments

  1. Gary Young

    Having served in political office in the Idaho Legislature I can tell you that most people who go into political office do it for the right reasons because they want to make things better but the system corrupts people if they do not have a strong moral compass that drives them, must be biblical based and believers who will not deviate from the truth of scripture and the call to be a servant to God and the people.

    1. KurtBubna

      Hi Gary, I didn’t know you were i the legislature! I would always vote for you!

  2. Glenn

    It’s sad that our country has strayed from our Christian roots and fundamentals. The country and the world has become lovers of themselves as Jesus predicted. All we can do is pray and try our best to bring people into the body of Christ, and let our light shine everyday! Thank God that Jesus is coming back soon to fix everything! 🙂

    1. KurtBubna

      So true, Glenn, and so sad, but I’m with you . . . praying.

  3. Martha Orlando

    Well said, Kurt! Our leaders, in whatever capacity, should be held to the highest of standards.
    Blessings!

    1. KurtBubna

      It seems obvious doesn’t it, Martha. Thank you for encouragement. Praying for our country…

  4. Kelly

    PERFECTLY said…it is a struggle to prayfully ask who the best candidate is… I DID agonize ALOT over this when it was time for our turn to vote couple weeks ago.. This shouldn’t be hard right??? In the grand scheme of things.. but I still voted.. & I prayfully hope I made the right choice

    1. KurtBubna

      Sadly, this is a struggle for many of us. Praying with you, Kelly.

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