Interactive Assessment | BuildingChurchLeaders.com

Most Christians agree that their faith affects how they approach politics, but disagreements arise over the political role of the church. A common source of confusion is the phrase "separation of church and state." Although the U.S. Constitution does no include these specific words, the phrase is part of the American lexicon and evokes strong reactions.

These tensions, particularly in an election year, can cause confusion within a congregation. This quiz, created by our editors with input from political scientists, is intended to be a self-assessment tool for approximating where you stand on issues for church and state. The survey's goal is to stimulate healthy discussion and deeper thinking. Clearly, these relationships are far more complex than this simple tool can fully diagnose, but these questions are meant to provoke deeper reflection about the assumptions we carry and why we carry them.

On a scale of 1-5, mark the answer that best fits your perspective.

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Part One: Politically Engaged or Disengaged

The gospel is:

	1. God's plan for the redemption of individuals.
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Primarily about individual salvation but has social implications.
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. God's plan for the redemption of all things including society.

The church should focus on:

	1. Rescuing individuals out of a fallen society.
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Being an alternative culture amid the fallen society.
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Transforming society to reflect God's values.

On the issue of government and politics, Jesus:

	1. Was indifferent toward civil authorities
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Was a pragmatist who engaged politically only when necessary
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Was a subversive who continually underminded the political authorities

"Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's and unto God what is God's " is a statement:

	1. Of political indifference.
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. That respects the role of government.
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. That undermines the goverment because everything belongs to God.

The constitutional freedom of religion:

	1. Is not essential for the church to thrive and grow.
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Is necessary for a peaceful pluralistic society.
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Is essential for the church to thrive and grow.

The "wall of separation" between church and state:

	1. Is necessary to maintain the purity of the church.
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Is necessary so multiple religions can coexist.
	4. I fall somewhere in between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Does not represent the intent of America's founders.

During an election season, my church:

	1. Won't say anything about the election in church gatherings.
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Will pray about the election in church gatherins.
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Will preach about the election.

How often does your church address abortion/sanctity of life issues:

	1. Never
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Occasionally
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Frequently

How often does your church address poverty/social justice issues:

	1. Never
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Occasionally
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Frequently

If tax exempt status was not at stake, I would:

	1. Want to see my church talk less about politicial issues.
	2. I fall somewhere between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. Want to see my church continue to engage political issues as it currently does.
	4. I fall somewhere between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. Want to see my church talk more about political issues.

If a goverment leader/politician requested an opportunity to address my congregation:

	1. I would decline the request.
	2. I fall somewhere in between No. 1 and No. 3
	3. I would welcome the politician to make a few remarks.
	4. I fall somewhere in between No. 3 and No. 5
	5. I would offer the leader the pulpit for the service.

Click submit when you've finished.