Politics Quote by Guy Prentiss Waters
““The church is not authorized to speak to matters to which Christ has not authorized her in the Word of God to speak. The church, for instance, has no authority to endorse a particular candidate for public office in civil government. Rather, she declares the principles of civil government set forth in such passages as Romans 13:1–7 and 1 Peter 2:13–17. The church may not endorse a particular bill pending before a civil legislative body, for instance, a bill concerning abortion. The church, rather, must declare that abortion is a violation of the sixth commandment of God, and do so without reference to endorsing this or any other piece of legislation.””
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Authority of the Church in Public Affairs, 1990s
The church should limit its public political involvement to biblical principles, not endorse specific candidates or legislation.
In simple terms: Church speaks only biblical principles, not political endorsements.
Key Takeaway
Focus on principle, not partisan support.
Themes
religion
politics
ethics
authority
public discourse
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
theological
ethical
instructional
When to use this quote
- voting guidance
- public policy debates
- legislative advocacy
- social issues
- community education
Key Concepts
separation of church and state
biblical authority
moral teaching
Questions to Reflect On
- How can churches influence public morality without endorsing specific policies?
- What risks arise when religious bodies comment on political matters?
A Different Perspective
Church influence may be perceived as partisan, reducing its moral credibility.
