Detroit‑based Southern Baptist Convention President and pastor Willy Rice used a recent speaking engagement to challenge clergy across the United States to become more politically active as the 2026 midterm elections draw near. Rice argued that many of today’s most contentious policy debates are rooted in theological and moral convictions, and that Christian leaders have a historic responsibility to speak out.
Pastors’ role in American political history
“Throughout American history, pastors have had a strong voice at key moments in our political story,” Rice said. He warned that in recent decades Christians have been encouraged, both from outside and within the church, to “be more quiet” and withdraw from public discourse. Rice noted that while leaders on the theological and political left have remained vocal, many on the right have retreated, creating a “vacuum” of Christian leadership in the public square.
Theological issues at stake
Rice highlighted several policy areas he believes demand a Christian response: abortion, the definition of marriage, gender identity and immigration. He framed these topics as “deeply, profoundly theological issues” that trace back to the Genesis account of creation and to God’s purpose for humanity. By linking contemporary legislation to biblical principles, Rice urged believers to vote in line with their faith.
Immigration and the rule of law
Addressing immigration, Rice acknowledged the “challenge” the issue poses for Christians but insisted that compassion does not require abandoning the rule of law. “There is a value of compassion, a value of wanting to care for the poor and oppressed,” he said, adding that Christians already perform more charitable work than any other group in the United States. Yet he warned against “manipulative” arguments that equate compassion with open borders, comparing such reasoning to leaving one’s own house unlocked.
“No one would say that because you love people you should leave the doors of your house unlocked, or open up the jail cells in your own community,” Rice argued, emphasizing that lawful immigration enforcement and humanitarian concern can coexist.
Call to action for clergy
Rice concluded with a direct appeal: pastors should “step up” and help guide their congregations on how to vote responsibly. He suggested that clergy use sermons, church newsletters and community events to inform members about the moral dimensions of upcoming ballot measures and candidate platforms.
While some Christian leaders caution against mixing pulpit and politics, Rice contended that the separation is a false dichotomy when the policies in question affect the very core of Christian belief and the flourishing of families and communities.
Implications for the midterms
As the nation heads toward the November midterm elections, Rice’s remarks signal a renewed push from the Southern Baptist Convention to influence the political conversation. Whether this call will translate into higher voter turnout among evangelical voters remains to be seen, but the SBC’s leadership is clearly positioning itself as a moral compass on the national stage.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
