Freedom of speech

Pulpit Freedom
So who determines what the preacher preaches?  A committee?  A council?  The Deacons?  The Internal Revenue Service?  This is a crucial issue in our day.  There are those who cry out, "There shouldn't be any politics from the pulpit."  Should preachers remain silent on issues of morality, or what about issues that directly impact the community?  Do preachers forfeit their 1st Amendment right when they are ordained into the Gospel ministry?  If you have ever heard one of my sermons you know my answers to the questions above.  You know I am not afraid to take a stand on issues, and you know that my heart is motivated by passion and compassion.  Throughout our history as a nation ministers have helped to inform the public, they have taken public stands on issues pertaining to slavery, civil rights, Women's Suffrage (check the facts liberals), prohibition, gambling, etc.  People like Jonas Clarke, a pastor in Lexington, played a very instrumental role in the "shot heard around the world" that led to our Declaration of Independence.  Today in our politically correct culture there seems to be a growing concensus to silence the preacher on cultural issues.  Were the Prophets silent on issues facing the people?  In Judaism the Synagogue is a very active cultural, political and social gathering place.  I'm thankful to serve in a church that stands on the Word of God, and supports preaching on the cultural issues.  In fact I believe the pulpit in America today is partially responsible for the mess we are in.  The fear and ignorance of the law have caused many preachers to avoid the "Hot Topics".  Those preachers cater to the "Make Me Feel Good" crowd in their churches.  Their sermons are filled with fluff and short on truth.  The move to get rid of what is labeled "Hate Speech" has led to the arrests of ministers.  Click here: Pastor Arrested.  My philosophy is simple, I am called by God to preach His Word (2 Timothy 4:2).  I am led by God to proclaim His truth.  I preach His Word unapologetically and boldly.  I don't politicize the pulpit, it is too sacred for that, I do address the issues facing my congregation, community and culture.  On the day I was ordained in the gospel ministry I didn't surrender my 1st Amendment right.  Therefore, I preach the Word and take a stand!  Stand with me before it is too late!!!