Faith
Rising Threats to Pulpit Freedom Test Believers’ Resolve
Faith Facts
- The Johnson Amendment was established in 1954 to limit nonprofit political endorsements.
- U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker ruled that federal law barred relief in this tax matter.
- National Religious Broadcasters and several churches plan to appeal to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
A federal judge recently rejected a proposed agreement between the IRS and Christian ministries.
The deal would have kept churches from being punished for political speech from the pulpit.
The ruling leaves the restrictive Johnson Amendment in place.
It continues to threaten the religious liberty and free speech rights of American pastors.
Family Research Council President Tony Perkins said the order avoids correcting a wrong that strikes at American freedom.
“Fortunately, the NRB plans to appeal this decision to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.”
“Family Research Council will support that effort.”
Christians must continue to pray for full liberty.
They should seek a day when houses of worship can speak truth without fear of government overreach.