(Tim, w/thanks to Jake) Yesterday, Richard Cizik resigned as Vice President for Governmental Affairs of the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE). In the past (see here, here, here, and here) Cizik's public statements have led me to suggest that my denomination, the Presbyterian Church in America, resign its membership in the NAE. I'm only more convinced of this now, given Cizik's failure and resignation and the moral failure and resignation of NAE President Ted Haggard two years ago.
The context for the present scandal is that Cizik had this question put to him during a December 2 Fresh Air interview with National Public Radio's Terry Gross:
"A couple of years ago when you were on our show, I asked you if you were changing your mind on that. And two years ago, you said you were still opposed to gay marriage. But now as you identify more with younger voters, would you say you have changed on gay marriage?"
Cizik responded:
"I'm shifting, I have to admit. In other words, I would willingly say that I believe in civil unions. I don't officially support redefining marriage from its traditional definition, I don't think."
If the NAE simply changed its name to the National Association of Emergents, Cizik would be a perfect fit. So again, I suggest the PCA leave bad enough alone. Let's have an overture to this year's General Assembly calling for our resignation. The NAE is a tran wreck that doesn't need one more passenger car added to the pile.
