At this point, the IRS can fine any church, synagogue, temple, or mosque that supports a particular political party or candidate.
If they paid taxes, they could do or say anything with impunity.
Should churches forego their tax exemption so they can become politically involved without risking legal consequences?
2007-01-23 04:35:51 · 11 answers · asked by NHBaritone 7 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
If they wanted to... but then, they couldn't say they were a church or part of a Religion anymore, but a business. Then they would have to prove what type of product they are giving in order to get a business license. They can go without providing the product for up to 3 yrs, but then they'd have to show for something. ;o) So even if they gave up tax exemption, the majority would have to shut down because they are not offering any type of product (charity or otherwise) to the public... only religious services.
2007-01-23 04:41:39 · answer #1 · answered by Kithy 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Through the centuries Churches have been very active in politics and influencing politicians. Thant's what makes them part of Babylon the Great. Revelation 17:4,5,18;18:4)
2007-01-23 05:38:28 · answer #2 · answered by linniepooh 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Separation of church and state means government can't intervene one way or another on how we worship. It doesn't mean separation of spiritual conviction from public affairs. BTW the whole concept of "separation of church and state" came form two clauses in the 1st amendment: the establishment clause (Congress shall make no law establishing religion) and the exercise clause (or prohibiting the free exercise thereof). It was meant prevent fiascoes such the inquisition, the witch hunts or the jihad. In other words, the extermination of infidels, heretics and apostates is illegal. Some would like that to mean that people of faith can't have a voice in the public arena. But it doesn't.
2016-05-24 01:05:41 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Some large Mega-Churches have done that, so large they can easily afford it and just absorb the tax increase or addition.
John Haggee in San-Antonio I think is one, and a few others
Rod Parsley in Ohio I know has, and is very active in Politics.
And I think Dr. Jack Van Impe has as well.
2007-01-23 04:41:36 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Charitable organisations cannot claim donations legally unless they carry this immunity from tax and with it the removal from political affairs.
Unless they start charging people to go to church it ain't gonna happen.
2007-01-23 04:41:20 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Only those that choose to do so. many churches would go under if they lost the tax exemption status.
2007-01-23 04:45:06 · answer #6 · answered by ? 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No. The church should stay out of politics. The individual should vote as they please. The purpose of the church is to instruct Biblical truths and let the people decide.
2007-01-23 04:41:22 · answer #7 · answered by Fish <>< 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This would be the stupidest thing that could ever happen, but wait doesn't Bush say he tlks to God. Religion has no place in Government, Religion is based on superstion and and fear. We need less of this not more.
Amen
2007-01-23 04:43:55 · answer #8 · answered by plferia 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Jesus ran away when they tried to make him King here on earth and true Christians are to be no part of this world and that would include it's politics. God's Kingdom government with Jesus as its princely king is the only government we should support and it is a heavenly government.
2007-01-23 04:42:45 · answer #9 · answered by Sparkle1 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
HELL NO.
Churches have no place in politics. They should pay fines instead.
2007-01-23 04:39:41 · answer #10 · answered by YDoncha_Blowme 6 · 4⤊ 1⤋