Christian non-profit to challenge IRS decision to deny tax exemption, call Bible tool of right

First Liberty Institute is challenging the decision of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to deny tax exempt status to the nonprofit group Christians Engaged.

The IRS decision has turned heads because it concluded teaching the Bible was akin to supporting Republican politics.

"Specifically, you educate Christians on what the bible says in areas where they can be instrumental including the areas of sanctity of life, the definition of marriage, biblical justice, freedom of speech, defense, and borders and immigration, U.S. and Israel relations. The bible teachings are typically affiliated with the [Republican] party and candidates. This disqualifies you from exemption under IRC Section 501(c)(3)," the May letter from IRS Exempt Organizations Director Stephen Martin stated. 

First Liberty Institute is appealing the government agency's move to deny tax exempt status to the Christian organization.

"Only a politicized IRS could see Americans who pray for their nation, vote in every election, and work to engage others in the political process as a threat. The IRS violated its own regulations in denying tax exempt status because Christians Engaged teaches biblical values," said Lea Patterson, Counsel for First Liberty Institute which is representing Christians Engaged.