Prophet on the Payroll: When Pulpit and Pew Clash Book

His experiences as a refugee from Nazi-dominated Hungary convinced John R. Bodo that there is just one Gospel, indivisible, personal, and social, and that "mixing religion and politics" is part of a pastor's prophetic responsibility. This book is Bodo's spiritual autobiography, and based on twenty-one sermons preached over the last half-century, Bodo presents in biblical and theological perspective many controversial public issues which continue to engage and sharply divide Americans.

He considers the spirit of Jesus and his message more important than the literal words of the Bible. However, he insists on dealing with the related biblical materials even when he finds them obsolete.

Commitment to the freedom of the pulpit and to responsible prophetic preaching has marked Bodo's entire ministry. The relationships of Protestant clergy and public issues has remained a consistent theme in his writings and sermons. Prophet on the Payroll illustrates Bodo's lifelong straggle to apply the justice and compassion of Jesus to some of the toughest issues faring post-industrial, multi-cultural, modern America.