Pastors and Ministry Leaders Sign the Pledge

I believe that the overall condition of the nation is a direct reflection of the overall condition of God’s people, and I accept that the pulpit is most responsible for the overall moral strength or decadence of the country.

I believe that God’s inspired Word equips us for every issue that arises in life, including not only spiritual but also temporal ones (2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Peter 1:3).

I believe that it is the duty of God’s ministers to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) on every issue, whether spiritual or temporal, and I will not let the fear of man (Psalms 118:6, Proverbs 29:25), the fear of government (Acts 4:18-31, Matthew 10:28), or the fear of possibly offending someone (Matthew 15:12-13) keep me from boldly proclaiming God’s position on every issue of the day (Jeremiah 1:10, 6:27).

Therefore:

{C}·          I will uphold the Great Commission’s mandate to teach everything He has said (Matthew 28:18-20), including not only those things related to our eternal relationship with God but also all other things, whether cultural, educational, economic, moral, or political.

{C}·         In boldly addressing all these issues (Hebrews 10:38, Proverbs 28:1), I will not be intimidated by the criticism, anger, or ridicule of opponents (Jeremiah 1:17-19, 1 Peter 5:8), and I will even take contemporary items from the news so as to teach God’s people His perspective on those issues.

{C}·         I will bring to light the hidden things of darkness (1 Corinthians 4:15) and speak out loudly whenever I see something that endangers God’s people, whether the danger is spiritual or temporal, long term or short term (Ezekiel 33:7, Isaiah 56:10).

I commit myself to being a clear voice for God on all issues and will shepherd His flock on those issues, striving to follow the footsteps of my distinguished predecessors (the fearless Black Robed Regiment – so named by the British for the black clerical robes that ministers traditionally wore), whom distinguished Bishop and church historian Charles Galloway described in these words:

“Mighty men they were, of iron nerve and strong hand and unblanched cheek and heart of flame. God needed not reeds shaken by the wind, nor men clothed in soft raiment [Matthew 11:7-8], but heroes of hardihood and lofty courage. . . . And such were the sons of the mighty who responded to the Divine call.”

In short, I pledge myself to be a faithful and courageous member of the new Black Robe Regiment. I will fearlessly proclaim God’s perspective on all issues, whether spiritual or temporal, and extend the knowledge and application of His principles not only throughout my church but also across my community.

Because of Christ,

Pastor Eric Philpot