Faithful Politics Faith or Fundraising? Defending the Johnson Amendment with Amanda Tyler
We're breaking from our usual Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday release schedule to address a topic making headlines: the Johnson Amendment.
What is the Johnson Amendment—and why are some Christian leaders eager to repeal it? Enacted in 1954, the law prohibits churches and other nonprofits from endorsing or opposing political candidates. While critics argue it silences pastors, Amanda Tyler, Executive Director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, says it actually protects the integrity of both church and state.
In this episode, Tyler explains how repealing the Johnson Amendment could politicize the pulpit, erode sacred trust, and compromise true religious freedom. With legal expertise and deep Baptist roots, she offers a compelling defense of why churches should stay out of electoral politics.
If you've ever wondered whether pastors should endorse candidates from the pulpit, this conversation offers both moral clarity and constitutional insight.
Editor’s Note:
In this episode, there is a brief misstatement regarding the Texas lawsuit and litigation strategy. Amanda mistakenly stated that Texas sued the Department of Justice, when in fact it was the DOJ that sued Texas. A White House press release confirms this. While the procedural detail was misstated, the broader point being made remains unchanged.
Guest Bio
Amanda Tyler is Executive Director of BJC (Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty), a constitutional lawyer, and a leading voice in the fight against Christian nationalism. Under her leadership, BJC has mobilized faith communities to protect religious liberty for all, including through initiatives like Christians Against Christian Nationalism. She is the author of How to End Christian Nationalism.
🔗 Resource Links
How to End Christian Nationalism by Amanda Tyler: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781506498287
BJC – Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty: https://bjconline.org/
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