Tax exempt

Currently churches are tax exempt under the US tax code.  Part of that exemption is an injunction against some forms of political speech “from the pulpit”.

Now, this subject can be debated and im sure there are good arguments for and against this.

But I don’t want to fight that battle, here and now.

I do want to ask what “from the pulpit” means at this point in history?   Usually it’s meant that speaking on issues in a general sense was ok.  Speaking for or against specific candidates or issues on the ballot was crossing the line.  

For example inviting some political candidates and excluding others seems to violate the spirit, if not the letter, of the law.

Another example.  When an ordained pastor posts on social media things that directly and specifically support or attack specific candidates or office holders, it seems to cross the line of what’s permissible.

Ultimately I’m asking if churches or pastors decide to cross this particular line, should they forgo their tax exempt status and the restrictions that go with it?   Or is it ethical to indulge in forbidden behavior while trying to avoid the consequences.

Personally, I’m on the side that applauds people who take stands and are willing to pay the price for their stand.   I have less respect for those unwilling to take responsibility for the consequences of their actions.

In this case, one wonders if the churches these folx serve would be as financially generous if they didn’t have the tax deduction and if these folx are willing to risk their livelihood to support political candidates.