What I Learned at Turning Point USA Could Change the Nation By SHANE IDLEMAN for The Stream
One thing is crystal clear in America: If we truly want change, we must re-spark biblical boldness and fan the flames of biblical action. If we won’t fight, then we will fade.
I recently attended a large gathering of pastors in San Diego organized by Turning Point USA Faith. During one of the opening sessions, a speaker said that the pastors in attendance could change the nation.
To some, that may seem impossible, but it’s definitely within reach if pastors return to their true calling: To preach the unadulterated Word of God and awaken a spiritually unconscious culture, not lull it into a coma.
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As many in our culture are brazenly “coming out,” shouldn’t pastors come out and address the issues that are destroying America from the inside out?
I Only Preach the Gospel
Sadly, many leaders are uncertain about speaking on topics they deem political. “I only preach the gospel,” they say. They fail to realize that the gospel affects all areas of life — from the unborn to our borders, and from LGBTQ+ issues, socialism, sex trafficking, wokeness, even war and peace. The gospel changes the heart, which in return, changes the nation.
Additionally, when pastors lack boldness about hot-button topics, it affects all areas of preaching. As a result, the “gospel” they preach is often a watered-down, non-offending, powerless message. If we lack the boldness to preach on the outworking of the gospel in our society, we soon will also quail at telling people the difficult truths of salvation, from repentance to judgment.
Silence Hurts the Innocent
If we don’t stand for those who have no voice, then who will? If we don’t encourage God’s Word in all areas of life, who will? Silence is not a virtue when the innocent are hurting and suffering. Being quiet in the midst of chaos is not a badge of honor; it’s acknowledgment of defeat.
“I only preach the gospel,” is often an excuse to remain disengaged. Granted, not everyone will have the same passion for hot-button topics, and many pastors are great encouragers, but we all must sound the alarm in these dire times. Sadly, many sermons sound more like elevator music instead of a battle cry.
If we are to spark another spiritual awakening (which is our only hope), pastors must once again feel the fire of the Spirit burning within. The pulpits can thunder again if we call the nation to repentance. (For added encouragement, listen to the sermon, “The Battle Cry for America.”)
Get Unction or Get Out
When speaking to a group of pastors, Leonard Ravenhill once said: “Get unction or get out of the pulpit.” If you think that statement is too harsh, I would encourage you to read your Bible all the way through. Preaching God’s Word is one of the highest callings ever given to mankind. And God’s anointing is the key ingredient.
