09/15/2026
Hey all,
I need to update you about the possibility we had been exploring of joining with another church. After further conversations, which turned to the importance of a pastor’s political views being in line with the political views of some within the Riverchase congregation - well, that possibility will not be moving forward.
I am not and will not be a hireling … ever.
Let me explain. In conversation, politics was brought up and not by me. A significant disagreement arose concerning the relationship between personal political views and Christian fellowship. Their leadership believes our political differences could become an obstacle to fellowship within the combined congregation. I believe Christian fellowship must be able to include people who disagree politically, provided our unity is rooted in Jesus Christ and the truth of God’s Word.
I do not preach party politics from the pulpit. I teach the Bible verse by verse and allow Scripture to correct all of us—including me. I have never required anyone in our church to share my political opinions, and I never will. Our unity cannot be based upon loyalty to MAGA, the Democratic Party, the Republican Party or any other political movement.
Joining two congregations together requires trust, shared convictions and agreement about what defines Christian fellowship. Because we have discovered a fundamental disagreement in that area, we will not be joining with this church.
I know some of you saw this as a hopeful possibility for our future. I did too, and I am deeply disappointed. I respect their right to make the decision they believe is best for their congregation, and I do not want anyone speaking badly about them. I would simply rather discover this incompatibility now than after our churches had joined.
We will continue seeking the Lord’s direction together, teaching His Word faithfully and trusting Him with whatever comes next.
This Sunday we will be meeting in our usual church building.
I’m frustrated about this, a little bit angry, and to that end trying to take a break from thinking about it.
