Lets talk a little about Church politics. I am not talking about Donald Trump or Barack Obama. Even though I could have some interesting blogs on both. I am talking about the little things that go on behind the scenes in Church. The stuff that controls spending decisions, gossip and of course playing favorites.
If you have regularly attended church for some time, I am sure you know what I am talking about. If you have been on a board or a committee you probably have got a taste of it. If you are a trustee, deacon or elder, I'm sure met Church politics with full force.
Why is there Church politics and how do they come about? Most of the time you are dealing with ego's. Stronger personalities in the Church tend to dominate weaker ones. The buddy system creates an environment of you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours.
Now I am not trying to say all Churches have so much drama going on behind the scenes that you should stay away. I am trying to bring the subject of Church politics to light so that you do not find yourself ensnared in its trap.
The low down facts of Church politics.
Believe it or not, there are some un-Godly souls that penetrate the Church. We are naïve to think otherwise. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. I use the term “enemies” loosely, because I am not implying that every disagreement in Church is Church politics. It is important to know who your real friends are and what their true motives are. It is a sad fact of life that some people will befriend you, just to use you.
The best way to keep nose out of Church politics is to be honest and tell the truth. Don't stretch the truth. Be up front and honest about what you think even if it may offend someone. People will get over disagreements but they will hold on to lies.
Don't engage in rumors. Remember the game of telephone? By the time the story gets to you, how many mouths and ears has it passed through. We can get caught up in the gossip train and spread hurtful things about our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
Hold people accountable for their actions and words. Don't let others squirm out of their responsibilities or backtrack on their commitments. Instead be graceful and encouraging to them. Pray for them.
I will leave you with this. Titus 3:9 “But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.”