Refer to the Ethics & Equity information reflected on page 23-6 of the textbook. Prepare a discussion board post commenting on Matthew's position. Your discussion will include references to outside information as necessary. You should also respond to two other discussion board responses.

Matthew Ayres is the founder, and the man behind the throne, of the Church for Today television ministry. Ministry broadcasts originate from church services in California and New York and are transmitted via satellite throughout the United States. In addition to receiving contributions from its members, the church solicits and receives donations from viewers of the TV broadcasts. The church is tax-exempt under 501(c)(3). The stated mission of the church is religious in nature. However, Matthew firmly believes, as do the members of the board of deacons of the church, that certain societal goals must be accomplished for the prophecies of the church to come true (i.e., their divine being expects them to be active missionaries). Among its societal goals, the church advocates government control and possession of all guns, the legalization of drugs, abortion on demand once approved by the appropriate government agency, the withdrawal of all U.S. troops from foreign soil, and the termination of all military alliances, the abolition of capital punishment, and the availability of tuition-free university education to all U.S. citizens. Matthew and the board of deacons are dismayed that American society has not adopted many of the religious beliefs that drive their goals. Accordingly, Matthew proposes to the board of deacons that the church take a more proactive role. The employment contract of the ministers now will require them to include the basic beliefs in their sermons in an active manner. All of the beliefs and societal goals must be covered quarterly, and every sermon must present at least one of the basic doctrines. The ministers will encourage the church members and TV viewers actively to support these positions at both the state and Federal levels. As a new member of the board of deacons, you wholeheartedly support Matthews position. However, you are concerned about the effects of this open advocacy of positions on the tax-exempt status of the church. Matthew responds that the church has friends in high places and assures you that the tax-exempt status will not be endangered. What should you do?