The Salvation Army is politically nonpartisan. Although it seeks to influence governmental and public affairs, it will not promote or endorse specific candidates or political parties.
In working with any State and its agencies, The Salvation Army seeks to promote Biblical values, including justice, truth, mercy, equity, human rights and peace, as part of its religious convictions and practice.
As an international Christian church and charitable organisation, The Salvation Army works within a wide variety of political and social contexts. No matter where it is operating, however, The Salvation Army’s unchanging mission is to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and serve suffering humanity in his name.
It is therefore appropriate to consider The Salvation Army’s view of its relationship with “the State”, which is defined for these purposes as the institutions that maintain political sovereignty over a defined territory and population.
The State is established by God for securing justice and doing good, and both Christians and the Church have a duty to respect its authority (Romans 13). Nonetheless, the Bible also teaches that we must seek first God’s Kingdom (Matthew 6:33). Biblical values must be upheld by the Church even when they are not upheld by the State.
The Salvation Army’s relationship with the State is founded upon scriptural principles, which include the following:
Approved by the General March 2011
The views expressed in this international positional statement constitute the official position of The Salvation Army on the issue addressed, and they may not be modified or adapted in any way without the express written permission of International Headquarters.
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