In a recent court filing announced this week, the IRS signaled a major shift in its interpretation of the 1954 Johnson Amendment: pastors may now endorse political candidates from the pulpit without risking their church’s tax-exempt status—so long as the communication is made “in good faith” and within the church’s usual religious context. This dramatic new stance, part of a settlement with conservative religious broadcasters and Texas churches, is generating strong opinions across faith communities.

Understanding the Significance

1. What the Johnson Amendment has traditionally required
   The Johnson Amendment bars all 501(c)(3) nonprofits—churches included—from endorsing or opposing political candidates under penalty of losing tax-exempt status

What changed in July 2025
The IRS now interprets the law to allow clergy to endorse candidates within sermons or official religious messaging without triggering tax consequences, as long as it’s done sincerely within worship services.

Diverse Reactions in the Religious Community

• Supporters, including influential evangelical voices like Pastor Jeffress, view this move as a long-overdue affirmation of free speech and religious liberty.
• Critics, such as legal scholars and campaign finance experts like Philip Hackney, warn this may transform churches into political players—possibly even unofficial “tax shelters” for partisan influence.
• Grassroots concerns also ripple through faith communities of color, with leaders urging caution and continued separation between Gospel proclamation and political campaigning.

Why Redeemed In Faith Reformed Church Stands Firm on Biblical Integrity

At our core, Redeemed In Faith Reformed Church is unwavering in one principle:

Our focus is on God’s truth, not political figures.

We affirm being outspoken on moral and social issues—abortion, human dignity, marriage, justice, sanctity of life—when these clearly conflict with Scripture. We do not hesitate to oppose social trends that diverge from biblical teaching.

But there is a clear boundary:

• We will not endorse political candidates, nor allow our pulpit to become a campaign stage.
• We will not accept influence—financial or otherwise—from campaigns or political organizations.
• We will safeguard our teaching ministry, ensuring the pulpit is reserved for proclaiming Christ and His eternal kingdom, not earthly power.

Three Convictions Shaping Our Response

Conviction	Implication
1. Scripture speaks to issues, not parties	We preach God-honoring truth—not party-aligned speeches.
2. Unity must outweigh division	“In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things grace.” We refuse divisiveness over partisan politics.
3. Avoiding political entanglement	The new ruling may allow campaign endorsements—but that doesn’t mean it aligns with God’s design for the pulpit.

How This Affects Redeemed In Faith’s Practice

1. No candidate endorsements: Our sermons will continue to focus on Scripture, and while we may address public policy or societal issues, we will not say “vote for Candidate A.”
2. No campaign materials or influence: We will not distribute or display political campaign literature or invite candidates for partisan presentations during worship.
3. Encouraging civic engagement—biblically: We will teach Biblical principles—justice, mercy, stewardship—and encourage members to vote informed and prayerfully.
4. Maintaining legal clarity: Whether the IRS rule stands or changes, we will keep the pulpit politically neutral, preserving our focus on Christ.

Beloved congregation, this ruling may shift legal boundaries—but the mission of the Church is eternal. The world watches how the Gospel is proclaimed. Let us continue to use our voice on issues that matter: sanctity of life, truth, justice, mercy, family, and neighbors in need.

Let us reject the clamor of partisan noise and remain steadfast in Christ. The pulpit is a sacred trust, entrusted to proclaim His kingdom, not the campaigns of this age.

In Conclusion

• The IRS ruling (July 2025) loosens enforcement so pastors can legally endorse candidates.
• Yet Redeemed In Faith Reformed Church rejects partisan pulpit use, reaffirming our commitment to biblical integrity.
• We will continue speaking on moral issues, remain politically neutral in preaching, and embrace civic wisdom rooted in the Gospel.

May God grant us grace and boldness to speak truth lovingly, live faithfully, and shine brightly as salt and light in our generation.