People Find Churches that Match Their Political Views


I remember years ago a Sunday class in which a church member presented the history of the denomination. We were Presbyterians. The presentation and discussion took up the hour. The history of Presbyterians is one of disagreeing and forming spin off denominations. There were so many I can't begin to recall them. Another split happened since then.

The reasons given for the splits is always some obscure theological disagreement. The real reason, it seems to me, is political differences. 

A recent poll found people prefer to attend a church with people of their own political ideology. That churches today are splitting over politics is a continuation of what has taken place since the beginning of Christianity. The truth is that church is a social club. People go there to enjoy themselves. If they do not enjoy themselves the go to another church--or do golf. The historical splits during Presbyterian history were about people wanting to enjoy themselves.

This past week there was a conference on "Christian Nationalism." Attendees expected non-stop speeches demonizing Bidon, Obama and Hillary. Instead, a prominent Protestant preacher denounced the Pope and the Catholic Church. Another speaker, a Catholic, advocated a government that mirrored the Catholic Church's organization. Both are in a branch of the faith believing in Christian nationalism. These two branches of Christian nationalism will be splitting into factions soon just like denominations. The two factions will soon stop speaking to one another.

There are always individuals or groups saying, "Let's go over and speak to our adversaries. Maybe we have more in common than either of us thinks. Together we will be stronger." While everyone agrees uniting with other factions results in more strength and influence, who wants to do business with people who are simply wrong? We don't like those people.

During the next several elections, we will see the public moving to the right or to the left. We will see churches doing the same.  

 

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