Pat Robertson vs. the Spirit of Adoption
— Friday, August 17th, 2012 —
In a recent broadcast of The 700 Club, a woman sent in a question about a man who wouldn’t marry her because she has children who were adopted internationally. If they were her “own” biological children, he would have no problem, she said. But because they were adopted, he saw too much risk. Host Pat Robertson’s female co-host bristled and said he was acting like a “dog.” Robertson disagreed.
He said the man “didn’t want to take on a United Nations,” and that, after all, you never know about adopted children; they might have brain damage and “grow up weird.”
I am taking a deep breath here and reciting Beatitudes to myself. I had promised never to mention Robertson here again. Every few months he says some crazy scandalous thing. He blames 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina on gays and lesbians, cozies up to the Chinese coercive and murderous one-child policy, counsels a man that he can divorce his Alzheimer’s-riddled wife because she’s “not there” anymore.
Let me just say this bluntly. This is not just a statement we ought to disagree with. This is of the devil.
The last go round, Robertson “clarified” his statements on a man leaving his sick wife. Didn’t mean to say it was right, he said, just that the man’s got to have some companionship and a divorce is better than adultery. Please. Robertson’s defenders said to me in letters and calls and emails that Robertson is just not what he used to be mentally and that you ought to hold him to a lower standard. That would be true if people were tapping his phone, or going to his house and recording conversations. However, the man is on television, representing to millions of people what Christianity is about.
The issue here isn’t just that Robertson is, with cruel and callous language, dismissing the Christian mandate to care for the widows and orphans in their distress. The issue is that his disregard is part of a larger worldview. The prosperity and power gospel Robertson has preached fits perfectly well with the kind of counsel he’s giving in recent years. Give China a pass on their murderous policies; we’ve got business interests there. Divorce your weak wife; she can’t do anything for you anymore. Those adopted kids might have brain damage; they’re “weird.” What matters is health and wealth and power. But that’s not the gospel of Jesus Christ. For too long, we’ve let our leaders replace the cross with an Asherah pole. Enough is enough.
Jesus was, after all, one of those adopted kids. Joseph of Nazareth was faced with a pregnant woman he could easily have abandoned. He knew this child wasn’t his, and all he had to go on was her word and a dream. He could have dismissed either. But he strapped on his cross, provided for his wife, and protected her child. Indeed, he became a father to her child. God called this righteous. The child Jesus seemed to be a colossal risk. His own family and neighbors and villagers thought he’d turned out “weird” (Mark 3:20-21). Maybe he was demon-possessed, they speculated, or maybe even “brain damaged.”
The Bible tells us that Jesus is present with the weak and the vulnerable, the “least of these,” his brothers and sisters. When one looks with disgust at the prisoner, the orphan, the abandoned woman, the mentally ill, the problem isn’t just with a mass of tissue connected by neural endings. The issue there is the image of God, bearing all the dignity that comes with that. And, beyond that, the issue there is the presence of Jesus himself.
Christians are the ones who have stood against the prophets of Baal and the empire of Rome and every other satanic system to say that a person’s worth doesn’t consist in his usefulness. Christians are the ones who picked up abandoned babies, who wiped drool from the dying elderly, who joyfully received developmentally disabled children, and who recognized that our own sin has made us nothing noble or powerful. We’re all just dead and damaged and, well, “weird.” But Jesus loved us anyway.
I say to my non-Christian friends and neighbors, if you want to see the gospel of Christ, the gospel that has energized this church for two thousand years, turn off the television. The grinning cartoon characters who claim to speak for Christ don’t speak for him. Find the followers who do what Jesus did. Find the people who risk their lives to carry a beaten stranger to safety. Find the houses opened to unwed mothers and their babies in crisis. Find the men who are man enough to be a father to troubled children of multiple ethnicity and backgrounds.
And find a Sunday School class filled with children with Down Syndrome and cerebral palsy and fetal alcohol syndrome. Find a place where no one considers them “weird” or “defective,” but where they joyfully sing, “Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world.”
That might not have the polish of television talk-show theme music, but that’s the sound of bloody cross gospel.
353 Responses to “Pat Robertson vs. the Spirit of Adoption”
Trackbacks
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Thank you for this.
@Shannon Dingle, Pat Robertson has lead countless Christians to the Lord..PRAY FOR PAT.
@Shannon Dingle,
I agree - I also happened to see the show this man is talking about. I felt he was saying it “tongue in cheek” like the man not willing to marry was the moron. He also commended Terry Muessen’s adoption of 5 Russian children. This is an unfair pot shot! I didn’t see the other programs.
@Tom Keane, does this mean that he should be given a pass to lead countless away from the Lord? Praying for Pat, while he is asked to step down.
@Shannon Dingle,
Sharon… Thank you. It was “tongue and cheek”. A statement that should have obviously been understood by all, except those looking for a reason to bash. He was agreeing that this possible mate was not worthy.
@Sue Bocock, tongue-in-cheek or not, his response was incredibly poor. Even if it was a joke (which it clearly isn’t - watch the video, in which he says he’s serious), even if it was a joke, how dare he make light of what is a tremendously sensitive, even holy, topic? Watch the video. He affirms the men’s bias against adopted children, reinforces it with de-contextualized anecdotes, and indirectly disparages the woman looking for help in the first place. Pat’s a well known teacher, respected by many, beloved by many. For him to take that tremendous influence so lightly is utterly beyond me.
@Shannon Dingle, here is what Jesus said: On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’
A man certainly has the choice to not marry. If he was unsure of marrying her in the first place then maybe the various races of children sounded like the dealbreaker. It is harder to raise children that are not biologically our own. One of my 3 children was a step daughter. It was harder to understand her. So many of her thoughts and actions were not familiar to me. Throw in the fact that the kids might be from another race and more difficulties arise. It IS an act of love to adopt children but it is not a requirement. It is a choice just like many other choices we have in life.
So is it the fact that he doesn’t want to marry into this multicultural family that bothers you or is it the fact that Pat Robertson said something negative about the U.N.?
@Neal Wright, I don’t care what he thinks of the UN. I don’t care why the man in the question won’t marry the woman. I do care that a man who claims to be a pastor and a leader of a group who’s express mandate is to be like Christ looks at adopted children and survivors of sexual abuse and sees damaged, irredeemable goods.
I was adopted at 17. I was sexually abused from the time I was 10 until I was 13. I was abused by my mother my entire life. If anyone had reason to believe she was damaged goods, it was me. But I am not. The idea that anyone is irredeemable is a lie straight from the mouth of the accuser.
I’m not telling you to adopt. I’m telling you that NO ONE is past redemption, and no one has the right to even imply such a thing, much less a leader.
It’s that simple. My God’s grace is bigger than Pat Robertson’s crazy mouth.
Incredible. I am so thankful that God didn’t feel this way about me when he accepted me into his family (broken and defiled as I was). Thank you for graciously and strongly responding!
@Jessalyn Hutto, I agree with what you say. Has Robertson forgotten his own place in God’s family?! We are adopted through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross into God’s family. We are the “weird” adopted kids. What if God decided to do this? We’d all be damnedest to hell. How dare he justify an immature man’s decision to not marry someone cuz she has adopted children. He can make that choice, but as a Christian man I think its a poor excuse.
I think Pat Robertson needs to be convinced to retire by the Christian community. He can’t condone a Christian man divorcing his wife after her getting weak and ill on the basis that its better than adultery. According to God if he remarries, its still adultery. Its an outrage he is still on the air. I am for calling out sin and standing for the truth but this is not whet Christ preached. He called out the hypocrites with religious beliefs. Healed the sick/hurting and compelled them to sin no longer. How can Robertson act and say these things? Where is his heart? He either has lost his sense of morality or has gone insane.
Thank you for the Biblical reference. I am the mother of a precious adopted son. We’ve always told him that we are no different than he is - we were made joint-heirs with Christ when God adopted us into his forever family. Thank you Heavenly Father for adopting me, my husband, my son, and my daughter. We certainly did nothing to deserve it and we are so imperfect… @Jessalyn Hutto,
@Jessalyn Hutto,
Before you get on Pat’s back have you seen the video of what this man is talking about?? I just happened to see this one. It was tongue in cheek. He also commended co-host Terry Mueseen for her adoption of 5 Russian siblings!
So was Pat supposed to say, “why you pig! You must marry this woman whether or not you feel like you can handle multicultural adoptions or not. Who do you think you are withholding your resources from them? Clearly love would tell you to take on as many non-biological adoptions as you can handle. AND if you run out of energy, money, patience or health then it’s your fault for not having enough faith!!!”??????
@ Sue Babcock, I have watched this broadcast, read the transcript and read PR’s apology for what was said during the broadcast. I see NO tongue in cheek here–he even goes quickly to the next questions saying “I’m in trouble.” He equates the adoption to one known problem of his acquaintance. I agree w/ him that the men ivolved don’t have to “take on the problems of the world” but PR’s duty is to call us to Godly standards, NOT reinforce worldly ones!
If Pat Robertson isn’t what he used to be mentally, perhaps it’s time to find something else to do; like fishing, where he can entertain the fish with his diatribes.
Beautiful! Today as I read the comments from PR, I looked at my adopted son (who has stuggled) and thought about his Sunday School class that looks like the United Nations and thought about how MY Jesus called me to this life- despite the fact that world said it was weird and I was THANKFUL. Thank you for a beautiful rebuttal that didn’t result to name calling and meanness- just a wonderful reminder of the call and redemption of the gospel.
@Megan Terry, Here Here!! Name calling is out people. Love is in.
Thanks, Russ. I am grateful for you and your bold, Christ-honoring voice.
God bless you for your stand on what is truly the truth.
Thank you
I’m not sure why you bother to talk about Pat Robertson. Different people have different ideas. Yes his might be wrong in your view and in relation to what the bible says, but he’s entitled to his opinion. There are MANY people out there that don’t want to raise children of a different culture. There are MANY people out there that don’t want to raise children at all. Do you believe we are mandated to have children, or adopt children? I don’t. I think it’s better to know what you can handle, or not handle, and don’t put yourself in a situation where no one is happy. We are to care for orphans and widows- that’s a Biblical mandate. But Christ did not tell us we had to adopt them into our family
@Julie Story, who are you arguing against? Is anyone trying to mandate adoption here? Come on.
@Julie Story,
Wow! I’m speechless Julie! Your “compassion” seems to be right up there with Pat Robertson’s.
Thank you, Dr. Moore! You have the right to speak! You have put your “money where your mouth is”. Robertson speaks hypothetically, you do not! God bless you and your treasured children!
@Julie Story, I think the reason he’s bothering to talk about Pat Robertson is that Robertson publicly said something in the name of Christ that needs to be talked about. Yes, Pat Robertson is entitled to his opinion. Yes, different people have different ideas especially when it comes to the Bible. At the same time, some of those ideas are wrong, though, (the mere existence of an idea doesn’t make it good or one we should respect or agree with), and they need to be corrected, especially when they concern the Gospel and the God of the Gospel. That’s what theologians and pastors like Dr. Moore are supposed to do; they talk about what the Bible actually says so that people can properly understand it. So, when someone like Pat Robertson, who is listened to and viewed by millions as representing Biblical Christianity, says something so antithetical to the heart of the Gospel, it absolutely makes sense for someone like Dr. Moore, who actually knows how to read the Bible, to say something about it. In fact, if he cares about the truth, he actually has to something about it.
As for the issue of whether or not we are all mandated to have or adopt children: I think Dr. Moore addressed much of that in the post. Biblically-speaking, there is no verse where Christ commands us to adopt children. At the same time, the whole thrust of the Gospel is that of an adopting God whose heart is utterly different than the attitude that Robertson is commending. Some of us are not called to adopt, or adopt kids from another culture. Sure. But the whole, “Well, they might turn out weird” argument is just absurd from the point of view of the Gospel.
@Julie Story,
You missed the point…please read the story again.
@Julie Story, the problem is that Pat Robertson is, ostensibly at least, representing Christianity–if he was representing secular paganism, your point would be well taken. Dr Moore is representing the compassion of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Those of us who are pastors have a sacred obligation to defend Biblical ethics.
@Julie Story, His opinions are of course different than what the Bible says, but he is claimIng his beliefs are biblical. That is not an opinion, but a lie, which is damnable apart from repentance by and to the blood of Jesus.
@Julie Story,
“But Christ did not tell us we had to adopt them into our family”
Nobody told Christ he had to adopt us into his family either.
The Gospel is all about adoption. No, you don’t HAVE to adopt a child into your family, but I tend to think that as believers, our hearts should, at the very least, be open to the possibility of God bringing an orphan into our homes to care for and love. It’s such a beautiful picture of the Gospel - even if they are “weird.” Whatever that means.
@Julie Story, You’re right. We are not all mandated to adopt children. Helping widows and orphans can take on many different forms.
PR is also entitled to his opinions, but he has a platform and he claims to represent believers in Jesus. As believers, we are called upon to declare the truth and to proclaim the true character of God. I’m not going to stand by while someone misrepresents the God I love. Nor should Mr. Moore.
It is absolutely in opposition to the reality of who God is to dismiss someone’s decision not to adopt because the children might “be weird”. When the Lord took us in as orphans, He didn’t look at us that way. He loved us for the messy, broken kids we are.
PR dismisses the value of adoption because it’s inconvenient. It’s not comfortable.
A quote from a dear friend and amazing example of what can be accomplished when one decides not to worry about being inconvenienced by adoption.
“My friends, adoption is redemption. It’s costly, exhausting, expensive, and outrageous. Buying back lives costs so much. When God set out to redeem us, it killed Him. And when He redeems us, we can’t even really appreciate or comprehend it, just like Dimitri [one of his 'weird' adopted sons] will never comprehend or fully appreciate what is about to happen to him … but … he will live in the fruit of it. As his Daddy, I will never expect him to understand all of this or even to thank me. I just want to watch him live in the benefits of my love and experience the joys of being an heir in my family. This is how our heavenly “Papa” feels towards us.” -Derek Loux 1972-2009
@Julie Story, I just have to say that Paul called Peter and Timothy and several churches out on their false behaviors and teachings. In Revelation, Jesus calls out the 7 churches, some of them quite harshly. As Christians, we MUST MUST proclaim the true and Biblical teachings of Christ. If someone is a false teacher and causes others to stumble, then we should and have the right to admonish them. Nothing he said can be backed Biblically. Thank you, Dr. Moore for having the courage to do this!
@Julie Story, I have nothing more to add; I just want to pile onto the “what story were YOU reading?” theme.
@Julie Story, Um, no I’m sorry he’s not entitled to his opinion. He is sitting in a position to - to his best ability - clarify for people what the bible says on certain matters. Certainly we will disagree at times, but what he is saying isn’t just an opinion - it is flatly contradictory to scripture!!!
@Julie Story, I agree with you….guys have a right to date whom they want and that’s all Pat was saying…maybe he went a little too far….I wouldn’t date this girl either if I was single…
@Julie Story, as you can see… expressing a viewpoint thoughtfully and plainly to this group, thinking that their desire to be like Christ would provoke thoughtful response, was misplaced. They are rabid.
“@Julie Story, who are you arguing against? Is anyone trying to mandate adoption here? Come on.”
Yes, by logical extension they are, because they are saying that it is wrong for a man to not marry a woman if his reason for doing so is that she has adopted.
@Julie Story,
This issue here is that he is not stating this as his opinion, but as if he is saying that it is backed with scripture. The fact that he often speaks on biblical issues and worldviews based on scripture HE SHOULD HAVE CLARIFIED.
I am so disappointed in his response as a single waiting to adopt. Had he said, “well I can understand if a guy has that issue, and though it may not be right, at least he is being honest.” That would have been OK to IDENTIFY as his opinion. But to state, “hey you never know what you are getting when you adopt.” OMGOODNESS do you know what you are getting when you choose to have babies of you own? NO, you can wind up having a sick baby, a baby that has Downs, etc so is he suggesting that it would be OK to throw those babies out?” What are we saying about redemption if we believe what his opinion is? How on earth can any bible believing Christian say with conviction that God’s heart is NOT in adoption. The very early picture of adoption is a heavenly picture of how God feels about us. None of us are worthy, none of us deserve to be in his kingdom, and yet He adopts us all. I have lost all respect for PR and honestly would question his love for God based on his statements….
@Steve Mooradian, calling folks rabid is Ad hominem. According to your definition, what would be a thoughtful and plain response? And did Christ not tell the truth even when it involved telling others something they didn’t agree with? Most of the comments above did tell the truth thoughtfully and plainly, in non-argumentative language. It is indeed biblically truthful to say that God does not agree with Pat Robertson’s teaching on this issue.
@Julie Story, just because there are many who choose not to do something doesn’t make it right. No one said people are mandated to adopt, but having a compassionate heart is a biblical mandate. For a leader in the Christian faith to say adopted kids might grow up weird makes him look ignorant. Unfortunately, he’s a public figure and many think that all Christians believe that way. When he speaks as a rep of Christianity, he needs to base his words on scripture, not his own personal opinion, or on one person’s story whom he chose to exploit by using them as an example. -
Maybe he has led people “to Christ” or to make a decision, but he’s not an example of how Jesus lived. If he isn’t able to be as “sharp” as he used to be, maybe the producers of his show need to step in. Or, everyone could just stop watching him.
@Julie Story, He does have his right to an opinion, but not to say it is a Christian view, or put it across as one. If he is saying these things it shouldn’t be on a Christian Channel.
As for getting divorced because his wife has Alzheimers, please if you have reality Channel watch it sometimes. There have been men and women whose spouses have been in near fatal accidents and have become paralysed from the neck down. They don’t even think of divorce, they carry on, cleaning them feeding them, and so much more. One man even married his wife AFTER she was paralysed and cared for her for years. He never thought of divorce.
It says time again in the Bible to take care of the widows and orphans. That is the Christian view, or at least should be, so him saying we shouldn’t is going against the Bible teaching that Christians should follow.
“Jesus was, after all, one of those adopted kids.” True. But beyond this, so is every one of us who calls God “Father!” If we fail to realize this, we fail to understand the gospel.
I shudder to think that when people hear Robertson speak, they feel that he “represents” me as a Bible-believing Christian. His “gospel” is not a gospel at all.
Yes & Amen! Thank you, Dr. Moore.
Dr. Moore
Wonderfully and masterfully spoken and done so in truth and forthrightness. I truly believe that God has called certain people for this day and time to confront those who would put forth false and misleading “speeches” as it relates to the Word of G-d.
Thank you for being so bold, honest and direct as the comments made by Robertson were vile, evil and not from God.
Thank you. Perfectly said.
As an adoptive Mama, I want to say thank you for this! I’m praying God gives you a greater platform for this truth than Pat Robertson will ever have. My husband and I pray often for your ministry!
I love that you’re putting out a sane rational Christian voice. Just wanted to politely remind you that plenty of non-Christians are also “pick[ing] up abandoned babies, … wip[ing] drool from the dying elderly, … [and] joyfully receiv[ing] developmentally disabled children.” While not all Christians demonstrate “Christian”-like behavior, those behaviors aren’t the exclusive domain of Christians.
SLAM.DUNK !!
@Carolyn Twietmeyer, I always love your comments Carolyn…btw, I also will add SLAM.DUNK!!!!
While I would disagree with Pat Robertson on this issue, I would also not find fault in men who didn’t want to date someone who had three adopted children. That would be a strange situation to come into and would not be for every man. I think adoption is good and we are called to take care of the orphans but adoption is not a requirement to be Christian. I know that if I was single and a woman had three adopted children I would probably not pursue her anymore but I would most likely not pursue a woman who had children adopted or not.
@Joseph Spurgeon, I agree, although I assume we would both applaud and totally support the man who did feel called to pursue this woman and her children.
I’m not sure it’s a good idea for single women - especially those who have to work full time to support their children - to adopt children with special needs. If you are adopting overseas, you have to assume that your child will have learning problems or special needs. This may not be the best idea and I could understand why a pastor or loved one MIGHT advise against it.
@Joseph Spurgeon,
I agree with you that soberly weighing the responsibility for taking on that kind of responsibility (whether adopted or not) is prudent. And even choosing to not accept it may be a responsible decision.
However, Robertson went way past any reasonable advice of thinking carefully before taking on such a task. What kind of comment is, “You don’t want to take on the UN,” anyway? It’s vile and borders on racist.
@Joseph Spurgeon, find me one person who is saying that a single man has to date or marry someone with adopted children or that adoption is a requirement for salvation. Please.
@Joseph Spurgeon, agreed. Actually, it sounds like some of these men were doing the right thing by immediately breaking off the relationship if they had doubts. If you’re in two minds about the wisdom of continuing to pursue a woman, STOP. It will do far more damage if you try to push forward under those circumstances.
I think Robertson was crass in the way he made this statement, so it’s understandable that it’s triggered such strong negative reactions. And his comment about the Alzheimer’s ridden wife was HORRIBLE. Repeat, HORRIBLE. But the reason that comment was so horrible is that he was advising men to break a sacred vow and abdicate a responsibility they had already taken on.
This kind of situation is just different. It’s one thing to shirk a responsibility you already have. It’s another thing to decide not to take on a responsibility you feel you are poorly equipped to handle.
@Joseph Spurgeon, I had another thought which is that even though, like I said, Robertson was kind of crass in referring to children with brain damage, he was mostly talking about what might have been done TO the children, i.e. the cruel actions of other people.
I will give you a real-life example: A couple I know of wants to adopt a 16-year-old boy from Russia who has cerebral palsy. There’s a very real chance that he’ll be turned out on the streets when he reaches a certain age. But the people at his orphanage have told him terrible, wicked lies about American adoptive parents. They’ve got him terrified that this wonderful, God-fearing couple is going to take him home with them so they can murder him and harvest his organs. It’s his decision whether or not he wants to go, and now he doesn’t know who to trust. It’s a horrific situation. If the parents do succeed in getting him home, it will be a long and agonizing process to build a loving relationship with this boy.
Now if they feel called to do that, may God bless them. But I certainly couldn’t handle that. Does that mean I hate orphans and widows? Of course not. I just don’t feel like I’m called to take up that particular cross.
Most Evangelical Americans I know define God’s Will for their life to be that which is easiest and will bring them the most comfort. I would applaud a Godly Mad that would rise to a difficult challenge as marriage to a woman with children from international adoptions.
I can’t help but think about Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s international adoptions and the number of Evangelical Men who would feel and say exactly what Pat Robertson said. Sad.
Thank you for speaking Dr. Moore.
@Joseph Spurgeon, the man didn’t have an issue with the woman having a child. He had an issue with the child being adopted. That’s entirely different than saying, “I’m only in this relationship for the woman, not her three children.”
@Joseph Spurgeon, Praise God that He is more than willing to be the Father to the fatherless. Because the men that apparently follow Him seem a little too chicken to step up to the plate. I think Robertson personifies this belief that Christianity has somehow become a buffet and we can pick and choose what parts we want to follow when its convenient and what parts a too “weird” to put on the plate. The ones that might not earn us any brownie points with the fellas or the ones that might cost us a friendship or a promotion. I’m just over this. I think I just can’t really understand the mentality of being ok with being a part of the woman with the adopted children’s life as long as they are her bio kids. Its like all of a sudden these kids have cooties and the men go running away. I’m sorry but I’m fed up with this passive view of Christ-like manhood that is anything but. We’ve become too afraid to live our lives in that kind of radical way. Maybe the men who ran away were a little too afraid of being labeled “weird” themselves. I don’t know the reasoning but whatever you want to call it, I just have a hard time defending that kind of cowardice in a Christian man. Sounds too much like a “Little Boy Larry” if you ask me. All I know is as men we have been dropping the ball and in the words of my boys in the 116 Clique its time to “MAN UP!”
@Joseph Spurgeon, don’t forget to watch the video where it would have been different if the children were, you know, drawing child support. A spoonful of medicine, right? But nope, these are just the regular kind that need to be provided for.
Additionally, I don’t know why commenters assume this was a single woman who just happened to go about finding three children from diverse countries to adopt. It seems much more likely to me that she was married and her husband either left her or died.
@Derek Taylor, you absolutely DO NOT need to assume a child adopted from overseas will have learning disabilities or any other challenges! It makes me sick to read your comments. NO ONE is guaranteed a “perfect” child, not those who adopt or those who have biological children.
I am an adopted Canadian child who is planning to adopt a Kenyan baby. I am not “weird” nor do I assume my child will be “weird” or prone to any more difficulties or challenges than if she was my biological child. And if she did, would she be any less worthy of a loving Christian home? any less worthy of my love and care than if I were married? Would I be any less worthy of the immense blessings of being her mother?
If God calls someone to adopt overseas and/or domestically who are you or anyone else to advise differently? I would be very upset at a minister who would counsel differently.
Thanks be to God who adopts us all no matter who we are, where we come from and what needs and difficulties we might have! and who never assumes anything but the best about us!
@Joseph Spurgeon, I agree. But it would have been best if Robertson had answered her exactly as you just did instead of the unfortunate way in which he actually did. He could have provided her with hope, encouragement and a healthy perspective. Instead he made adoption the issue, with poor wording, instead of encouraging her to trust God for the right man for her unique situation.
@Elizabeth H, first, I want to say that your comments echo the incorrect assumption of Dr. Moore, regarding Pat’s comments: he never counseled the man in the woman’s letter, nor anyone else, to not adopt children, domestically or internationally. He was, albeit poorly, disagreeing with his co-host’s comments that this man was a “dog” for not wanting to marry someone who has chosen to do something he is not prepared to do. While Pat, by word and deed, is an enormous supporter of adoption of ALL children, he was explaining that this is a responsibility that should never be taken on by someone who might consider the errant thoughts of them being weird or messed up. Though he could have said it better, he was, wisely, conveying to the letter-writer that she should not pursue any man who does not share her God-given passion for helping orphans.
Secondly, on a somewhat different subject, I believe that EVERY person of reproductive age SHOULD assume that the very worst possible scenario may be in store for them when they decide to take on the responsibility of raising a child. If you are not prepared for that possibility, then DO NOT risk having children! Children are an amazing gift from God, but raising them properly requires a tremendous amount of sacrifice that far too many parents take on without understanding that fact.
I know this is a passion-filled issue and you are right to react with all of your heart. I pray, though, that my words, written from a heart filled with a deep love of Jesus, help you to see this issue, and Pat Robertson’s comments, a little differently. Mr. Robertson is just a man, whose thoughtless words seem to humiliate himself more than anyone else dare try. But, I pray that I might have a small measure of the courage he seems given, to have the audacity, each day, to believe that God might use him to claim one more victory in the precious name of Jesus.
As an adoptive dad of beautiful daughters who have FAS, I am truly and deeply grateful that you have said this. Your careful words were much more effective than my initial rage.
Thank for drawing my attention to this. I contacted CBN with my concerns regarding misrepresenting the Bibles view of caring for orphans. My prayer is that others will look to the Bible for the true biblical answer and then themselves be called to care for the orphan.
Wow. Thank you so much for sharing this post.
As someone who hopes to adopt one day (Lord willing that one day I be married and that my future wife wants to adopt as well), I absolutely abhor the worldview and mindset that Pat Robertson advocates here.
Thank you, Russell, for taking a stand for the truth.
Thank God that He did leave me when I was a broken, shattered mess, and that He raised me up in newness of life in Christ.
Amen!! Thank you! As the Mother of “United Nations” both adopted, and biological, I want to thank you for taking the time ad the heart to write this post. You have said beautifully what many of us have been thinking.
Great editorial. It’s good for those with balance and a voice of reason to intelligently but forcefully critique the foolish, dangerous, un-Christian views within Christianity and those who promulgate them.
So much of what he says is an embarrassment to the cause of Christ and erects a higher wall of offense between Christians and those outside of Christ who have half a brain and rightly regard this type of stuff with contempt.
Well said, Dr. Moore!
Thank you for pointing this out. Since both OT and NT call us to take care of the widow and orphan - and since the apostle James tells us that true/pure religion is taking care of them - then Pat R. has made very clear what faith he is a part of - and it has nothing to do with Jesus and the Biblical faith.
- Julie Story - How exactly do you take care of the widow and orphan? Throw some money at an orphanage? Tell them Be warm and fed?
Where does it say to take care of the well adjusted widows and orphans? Does Pat think the orphans are in the orphanages because they WANT TO BE???
His dark heart was already revealed with his statement about abandoning a sick wife - these statements are beyond the pale. Jesus tells us in Matt7 how to recognize the false prophets - and Pat’s fruits tell us that is exactly what he is.
Repent Robertson Repent!
If God does not adopt all of us who are damaged, what hope do we have?
I am thankful I didn’t see the broadcast where Mr. Roberston made these statements because I don’t know how I would have reacted.
I am an adoptive mom (and also a foster parent) of children with brain damage. My daughter was born very premature (26 weeks) and suffered severe bleeding to the brain leaving her with brain damage and has CP. To further complicate matters her damage is in a an area of her brain that will effect her decision making skills as she grows (executive function). We were well aware of this when we adopted her, but we are also very aware that we don’t know everything about any pre-natal exposure or her treatment in the months she did live with her mother. Will she grow up “different” than some. Yes. But not Weird.
I am also a biological parent. My children were born naturally with no prenatal exposure to anything illicit or unhealthy. Their births were normal. Both have had the same upbringing with the same vaulues in our home. One is gifted and could debate the most well spoken lawyers under the table. The other has ADHD, ODD, and a learning disorder. He struggles with impulse control and frequently reacts to consequenses with extreme.
It doesn’t matter if your child is adopted or born to you. every child is different and a treasure to God.
Would everyone put their selves in the life I was called to. No. I wouldn’t judge them for that. At the same time, tell me my child is weird and you will have problems of biblical proportions.
@Stacey McKeown, Thank you, as an adopted child and as a woman who plans on adopting. You speak what I would like to say but with experience and patience I do not have at the moment.
I hope one day to be the kind of Mom you are.
@Stacey McKeown, I LOVE YOU!!! With five children at home, how you found time to brighten my day with your comments, here, is simply supernatural! I don’t fault you for not having seen the show; almost no one who has chastised PR has. Since his words have been so twisted, and never said one thing against adoption or adopted kids, Pat Robertson need not fear the F5 tornado that I know your prayers are capable of summoning!
The hypocrisy: PR has an adoption ministry!
How can we expect “The Church” to rise up and care for orphans and widows in their distress when church leaders not only DON’T advocate for and/or have ministries for adoptions, widows, those with special needs, DON’T preach FOR THEM from the pulpit, but DO undermine the integrity of the Gospel???
How can The Church be proLife and anti adoption? If one is to be against something then it needs to be PRO an alternative that is God honoring and Gospel enhancing.
How do we teach honoring our elderly or being against euthanasia with stuff like this coming out of a high profile CHURCH LEADER!!!??? The ramifications and consequences of such statements serve to empower the very entities with which we are at war!
Thank you Russell Moore for calling this for what it is: “From the devil” and NOT FROM GOD!”
@Deb W, “How can The Church be proLife and anti adoption?”
It is not - there are actually more parents in the USA wanting to adopt than there are infants needing adopting, which is honestly pretty impressive given the extensive amount of red tape and sometimes prohibitive cost involved.
Granted Robertson is being a crass idiot, BUT the woman asking the question needs to know that any man who shies away from a relationship with her because of her adopted kids isn’t a good choice for a mate anyway. Why lament over such men… they may have good or bad reasons for shying away… find someone who will love her and her kids!
@HC Wap, agreed
when we seek counsel we should call on our lord through his word. this woman points out the value of having a church family.i believe the holy spirit prompted the questioning. thank god for discernment .we need to pray for all who break the bread of life,pat too.
Preach.
Yes and Amen.
As a mother to 2 children with Down syndrome, one with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (2 of whom spent the first 3 years of life in an orphanage), and as an adoption advocate and educator, I thank you for putting into words what my heart was screaming out.
Russ,
Once again you nailed it. As someone twice adopted myself, I read Mr. Robertson’s words with shock and stunned disbelief. I will find the strength to forgive him, but I will - with you - vehemently disagree with him. And, I will loudly proclaim - with you - that we have a God and Father who will love and redeem and accept all “orphans” who come to Him.
Thank you for writing this! What a refreshing piece to read.
Dr. Moore, I appreciate this so much! You handled this so well and it is very encouraging. Thank you. LOVE IT!
How dare youMr. Robertson call my children weird or accuse me of taking on the United Nations because we chose to parent children that God gave us from a foreign land. But on the flip side, thanks, because now I know for sure that you walk a very egotistical worldly walk and I can opt out of reading or listening to anything you publish or broadcast
I suspected for quite some time and your recent statements about internationally adopted children confirms my suspicions. And don’t worry I will vitally spread this mews of your ignorance.
Thank you so much for saying this. Still can’t believe he said that.
Everyday I am amazed at the children the Lord has blessed me with. All three are adopted with special needs. Each is a creation of God with a soul that will never die. They are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Actually, Joseph couldn’t very easily have dismissed both his dream and Mary’s report considering that the Jewish people were very familiar with angelic visitations and were already expecting the Messiah. You have to consider the events of the Nativity from their cultural standpoint. It’s anachronistic to try to draw some kind of parallel to the present day.
@yankeegospelgirl,
Actually, the Bible tells us that at one point Joseph was indeed thinking of dismissing Mary. Remember this?
“Because Joseph, her husband to be, was a righteous man, and because he did not want to disgrace her, he intended to divorce herts privately. Matthew 1:19
This EXACTLY parallels Robertson’s un-Christlike remarks.
@Paul S.
Joseph was betrothed to Mary. The penalty for adultery was being stoned to death. Hence if he divorced her quietly he was sparing her from this potentiality.
Read about the laws of betrothal and marriage that were relevant to the time. During betrothal man and woman did not live together. Betrothal could be ended by one of two means: death or divorce. Please read and understand the passage in context.
Joseph’s kindheartedness bears NO resemblance to a man who is fearful of adopted children/children with defects.
It in NO WAY parallels Pat Robertson’s remarks.
Ummmm, that was BEFORE he was visited by the angel. May I suggest you read a little further in that passage you were quoting?
Matthew 1: 20-21
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
As an adoptive father to three and a foster parent to over sisty kids Robertsons comments disgusted me. Thanks Dr. Moore for your much needed statements. I just trust this gets back to the 700 Club and an apology is given.
First I would think that a man would rather marry a women with adopted children than birth children as there is no “baggage” or birth father to deal with in the relationship. He would be the only father to these children. Second birth children could also be “damaged” and “grow up wierd”. If we as a comunity would be more supportive of Adoption, birth mothers may be more open to place their babies for adoption rather than keep children they don’t want or can’t raise because society will look down on them if they do. As a single adoptive parent, I have the utmost respect of birth mothers who make the HARDER decision to make a better plan for their child.
@Mary, I’m not sure what you mean here.. and I hope I’m not reading it wrong. I agree with you that having a birth father to deal with can be looked at as baggage, but in reality…any woman who has kids in this days society has baggage..adopted or biological. Reason being..when you come into any kind of relationship with someone who already has children you are taking on a huge role of responsiblitly. I agree with the previous statment..any man that couldn’t accept her kids isn’t worth the time anyway. My husband is adopting my son and has never once looked at him as baggage. He loves him unconditionally and raises him as his own. All children are a gift from God and should be treasured, wether they are adopted or not.
Jesus wants to “take on a United Nations.”
He by his “blood …ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, (Revelation 5:9).
I am reminded of Matt Chandler’s famous Jesus wants the rose sermon.
Amen Dr. Moore!
As a Christian, husband, daddy, and pastor I am beyond offended at the absolute willful ignorance that has spewed out of Pat Robertson’s mouth! As a parent who chose to adopt a child that is mentally handicapped I want to say that Pat Robertson should apologize for that statement. I only wish I had an opportunity to publicly “call him out” to debate, disagree, and disprove his PERVERTED view of those with mental disabilities.
Respectfully,
Ray Earley
@Ray Earley,
Pastor, you should probably take a breather.
He didn’t criticize children with mental disabilities (notice, no one else read into what Robertson said to mean what you are upset over). He said something on the spur of the moment, stumbled through it and used language that was incorrect and inappropriate. Was the Holy Spirit leading Robertson … probably not. But I doubt he is leading you in your response either (and your is written out and well thought through!).
With all that said, thank you for being a father to a child who is mentally handicapped; you are a better man than I.
Best piece you’ve ever written, Russ. Last paragraphs brought tears. Proud to call myself your friend, fellow graduate of SBTS, and former colleague. Keep charging the windmills of “Christian” windbags in our culture!
Thank you Dr. Moore for your skillful dismantling of the opinion! I am growing concerned that “Christian Media” isn’t taking a Biblical approach to orphan care: First there was the Christianity Today article (http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2012/july-august/adoptable-kids-in-short-supply.html) that was of statements about “desirability” and not about the needs of orphans, and now 700 Club. We need for Christians to be embracing the needs for orphans, and to have that passion encouraged and embraced by “our” media! No wonder Christians have such a negative view by so many in social service, when this is the “public” view we, The Church, allow to be represented.
Please keep up the fight Dr. Moore, and know that there any many out there praying for you!
I originally typed a long note about my adopted daughters and the joy they bring to my life. There were a number of ideas I thought to share. But then I recalled the verse that precedes James 1:27 to care for orphans in their distress and realized God’s Word is more eloquent than I.
James 1:26 “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.”
Be a doer of the Word.
@Tony Bennett, Amen and Amen!
Thank you so much for your honest writing. I hope many read this and think.
A quote from a dear friend and amazing example of what can be accomplished when one decides not to worry about being inconvenienced by adoption.
“My friends, adoption is redemption. It’s costly, exhausting, expensive, and outrageous. Buying back lives costs so much. When God set out to redeem us, it killed Him. And when He redeems us, we can’t even really appreciate or comprehend it, just like Dimitri [one of his 'weird' adopted sons] will never comprehend or fully appreciate what is about to happen to him … but … he will live in the fruit of it. As his Daddy, I will never expect him to understand all of this or even to thank me. I just want to watch him live in the benefits of my love and experience the joys of being an heir in my family. This is how our heavenly “Papa” feels towards us.” -Derek Loux 1972-2009
http://louxfamilyblog.com
It seems Pat Robertson has been to Christiandom as Joe Biden has been to the Democratic Party!!! Many embarassing things coming from his mouth for the many years….maybe he should retire now.
Thank you, thank you, thank you…for my kiddos and all of those others that are waiting for families.
This makes me so sad. I really wonder if Pat Robertson is losing his mind. I really am serious when I say that. I can tell you that I actually used to watch the 700 Club a lot and actually prayed to received Christ and became a Christian in large part to that show. I am so thankful for all that he has done for the Kingdom of God but I think it is time he stop talking and stop hurting the cause that he gave so much to previously.
To all the men out there who “agreed” with Pat Robertson, what I keep hearing all you “men” saying is that you don’t “feel” that adopting foreign children is “for you”, because of the inconvenience they would pose, and that it would be “too hard” for you. Shame on you! Weeeellll, if you asked Jesus, I bet He didn’t “feel” like dying for you–if He listened to His flesh. I understand that we need to know an assurance when we take steps of faith, but too often, I think cowardice and fear hold us back and we don’t call it that–we cloak it in safe, convenient terms like “don’t feel ‘called’ or ‘prepared”, and such. When in reality we just don’t love enough, we are too selfish, and ultimately, don’t believe the Gospel enough to have it show a change in our live and choices, and fill our minds with pop culture because it “feels” right to our sin nature.
@Laura Ayars, let’s switch all the genders involved in this scenario. If a woman didn’t want to marry a man because of potential baggage involved with him already having multiple kids (even without the extra difficulty of international adoptions), and Pat Robertson said “Well then that woman is a dog”, and his female co-host said “No she isn’t”, then pretty much everybody would be on the side of that woman.
@Laura Aya
Revelation 5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
rs, seems like around the Throne of GOD every one is included
@Laura Ayars, both of the above replies confused me…so I’ll give it a try:
While adoption is noble and a depiction of God’s love for us, I don’t see a Biblical command for every believer to adopt.
Pat’s major error was after he said, “No, he’s not a dog…” He should have said, “…but he’s not the man for you. The man for you is the kind of man who is willing to make the same commitment you’ve made to raise these kids.” Instead, he turned the woman’s question into an opportunity to give all Christian men advice: steer clear of adoption, especially international adoption. That’s millstone advice.
Not every Christian man is called to be an adoptive dad. Thankfully, some are. And when they answer that call, they bring glory to God’s name.
Thanks Dr. Moore, once again you have stood for the gospel with Grace and a repentant heart. I am thankful for you and your work on behalf our orphans everywhere.
We fostered 2 and adopted one that had many unknown problems. We were completely unprepared for the ensuing nightmare that came into our home. We had to have one foster child leave after a year and we adopted the other one who it turns our has fetal alcohol, but we didn’t realize this until over 6 years of hell. Our two biological boys suffered greatly and were basically neglected by us for a couple of years turning their early teens while we dealt with the 2 children and then the one child. Our oldest son was so emotionally affected that we almost lost him. By God’s grace he is becoming restored to us and to the Lord. Our second son has recently told us he does not believe in Christ and does not walk with him. Our adoptive daughter has come a long way since we learned what her issues are and what we need to do to help her.
While I disagree vehemently with Dr. Roberston, I still wish someone would have told us what we were signing up for and how to prepare as much as possible and provided some assistance and support. My wife and I are now part of a support arm of our church that counsels those preparing to foster and adopt to give them the full story on what it could be like and how to best prepare. Many couples have told us they were so glad they learned ahead of time or they would not have believed the problems they were dealing with. Some couples have declined going forward with fostering or adopting because they said they didn’t realize what they might be getting into (they had rose-colored glasses on and we helped them take them off). So…some of what Dr. Robertson said has some truth in it….unfortunately, instead of being wise in his words, pointing to the Gospel, pointing to God’s concern for the orphan, but giving a realistic picture of what people fostering and adopting could be facing and giving them advice on how to be as prepared as possible or to discern whether this is really for them or not, he gave an answer totally devoid of the gospel. he should not be in front of the microphone anymore when I, even I, could give a better response than he did.
@Max Tremond,
I am the mum of 2 Nationally adopted children. I don’t like the tone of PR in the You tube clip I listened to.
I think adoption is great and it is how I got my children. I am adopted as a child of God and have entered into His family.
However, adoption hasn’t been without its issues. One of my children had years of extreme behaviour; I am not sure if it was adoption related, our parenting, personality issues or all three. Whatever was the cause as a family we had years of hard times. By the grace of God my child seems to be working through the issues and is a wonderful person.
When we were going through the adoption process we were given a list of backgrounds, disabilities etc that we had to go through and mark if we felt we could parent children with those issues. It was horrible but it had to be done as we needed to be open with ourselves and the adoption agency as to the kind of things that we could cope with. I believe that some children from certain backgrounds need specialist carers to help them through the trauma they have suffered.
Some behaviours can be extreme and difficult to live with so I think that it is so wise to count the cost before entering into any adoption. My experience has been mild in comparison to some families I have spoken to and I thank God for my 2 beautiful children.
Am I pro-adoption? Yes, of course.
Do you need to research? Yes, most definitely.
Are adoptive children weird? No more or less than any child.
Will there be additional challenges? There could be.
Would I adopt if I had my time again? Yes.
Do I wish I had done some things differently? Indeed.
AMEN! LOVE this.
I was with you right up until “I say to my non-Christian friends and neighbors…”, and then I had to pause for a moment and decide whether to comment or not.
Being a grad from SBTS, I’m going to hope you understand why I think you might want to end the note something like the following…
“Find a church where the whole truth of Scripture is being taught, and where the true Gospel is being lived out, and you will see all people of all abilities and backrounds joined together in the unity of the faith as one family adopted by and in Christ.”
I know of mormons and hari krishnas who do what Jesus did and would meet your standards as posted, but it’s not the Gospel.
Thank you for this - so well stated and well written. Here is a link to another time Pat is cautioning people about adoption: http://jeffgoins.myadventures.org/?filename=pat-robertson-and-adoption Scroll to 19:40 or so to hear his comments. My concern is that he is (falsely) representing the gospel and Christianity.
Thank you, Dr. Moore.
Adoptive Mom of 2 Blessings!
Eva
Thankyou! As a mother of 5, a mix of biological and adopted children with various special needs, and “brain damage” (SPD, ADHD, Learning disability, FAS, cerebral palsy) Thankyou for putting into words the cry of my own heart!
There is no excusing any Christian, famous or just regular guy. Old or young. Everything he has said is wrong and could not be more opposite of what Christ has taught. Period. No defense.
More than anything else, this speaks to the corporate control within Robertson’s camp, and apparently their inability to keep him off the air. His son, clearly the heir apparent, must cringe at the thought of him in front of a Polaroid, much less a tv camera. I remember when he ran for president, and he gave Gordon the reins of 700. He seemed to be working from a word of God ensuring his candidacy, or else why would he do such a thing?
When he didn’t get it, he was right back on the air, and I couldn’t help but notice his don’t face as he spoke. He didn’t look like he was happy, but gave a good face.
I don’t know why they can’t remove him, but someone should be coming out with a book sooner or later focusing on the preachers of the evangelical emergence, and their kids. Between Robertson, Schuller ( you know his son must feel vindicated now), and a few others, I’m sure there’s a real story here.
As the mother of a very bright, active 5 year old we adopted at age one from southern China, I would like to say that very few internationally adopted children are “weird” or brain damaged or even “special needs.”
Many people ARE intentionally adopting children with special needs, and may God bless those compassionate parents! But the majority of children can be less emotionally and physically damaged than kids that come out of our own social services/foster system here - many countries have a lower incidence of alcohol and drug abuse, sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS, and other related incurables such as forms of hepatitis, not to mention parental mental illness (with the attendant potential for abuse of the child) as a reason the child enters the system. I have counseled a family working with a domestic adoption of the 7 year old son of a mentally ill mother and what I observed of our system’s lack of oversight convinced us to consider international adoption.
It is quite short sighted to proclaim all internationally adopted kids as somehow deficient, because they are NOT. As someone else here has said, every child is different and there are no guarantees, even if you gave birth to them. Knowingly taking in a child with a disability is an awesome, mature, Christ-like act that should be celebrated, as should rescuing an orphan from a sad future (in our daughter’s case, likely a very young and abusive marriage or trafficking. Orphans in China are routinely denied jobs and discriminated against, and the lot of women lacking a family’s support is horrific).
Sadly, each of us who follows Christ must now labor under more misinformation and distortion thanks to Mr. Robertson’s ignorant comments. Thank you for this excellent rebuttal!
For my daughter’s sake,
Beth
Wow. Just wow. My wife and I have raised two adopted children, one from Korea and another of mixed-race born here in the United States. They are as much our children as if they had been so biologically. I guess it’s a good thing that I have been a Christian since I was in high school. Because if I were a non-believer, I would likely have judged Christians by Robertson’s statement here and would never consider becoming a Christian.
I am an atheist. I know that is abhorrent to many here but I agree with Dr. Moore. For all of my doubts about the existence of god, 1 thing has always rang true & pure to me. This is my greatest commandment, love one another as I have loved you. Jesus Christ’s life is the greatest moral example. He loved everyone as if they were his own brothers and sisters. He cared for the sick, poor, & yes, even the ‘weird’ ones. Pat Robertson has forgotten what love is about. Love isn’t about beauty or youth or perfection. Love isn’t about what you can do for me. Love is what you do for others. I love you all. Even if you cannot accept me. I love you. I love my blind son & his father (my husband) loves him too. He is not adopted, but it breaks my heart to think that children like him would be left to languish in an orphanage because they are considered weird and undeserving of a loving family. Is that what Pat is all about? That’s not what Christ was about. Frankly, the Christians I know would never condemn a child (or anyone) for their disabilities & differences. Pat seems to have lost the idea of Christ’s love and found selfishness, ego, judgement, & scorn for his fellow man. His walk with Christ veered off the path of righteousness and he is presenting himself as a false prophet. Pat should remember that the strangers who seek his advice may be angels unaware.
@Shana Garrett,
I greatly appreciate what you had to say; it is wonderful to know that there are many outside Christianity who recognize that Mr Robertson does not represent our faith.
But that is not why I am responding. Generally speaking, I don’t engage in message board discussions, but I wanted to correct one thing you said. You questioned whether or not Christians would “accept” you. I just wanted you to know that while we may not agree with your atheistic views, those views would not keep any Christian from accepting you. More than that, having the opportunity to know you, we would love you, and your family. We would be happy to call you a friend regardless of whether or not you ever accepted Christ. (though, in the spirit of full disclosure, we would greatly desire to see you do so.)
Have a wonderful weekend and thanks again for your comment.
@Shana Garrett, In reading your response and proclaiming to be an atheist, I could not help but take notice of how you made reference so many times to Jesus Christ in a positive way.And it seems to me that you might just be a little confused on the whole aspect of Christainity and salvation.
If you are basing your belief on religion on some of the television preachers such as P.R. please seek guidance else where, because you didn’t quiet come off as a real nonbeliever to me.
As a christian I feel compelled to ask you to really do some soul searching , And Bible reading with open mind and heart. And you will find that Christ will except you with open arms. And true christians will be filled with joy to learn that you would except Christ as your savior and welcome you in as His adopted child. Will be praying for you.
How dare you Pat belittle my grandson. May you humble yourself and fall on your knees before the throne of grace and ask forgiveness. Bravo to adopted and special need children. We love you
Did the writer contact Pat Robertson or his people to ask him to clarify? Or to take your concerns to him first?
@Becky, Strictly speaking a Matthew 18 context, Mr. Robertson made his comments publicly on an international broadcast. Public discourse and expressions such as Dr. Moore’s response, as well as comments here and elsewhere in social media, may well be considered as “two or more believers” going to Robertson to seek clarification and to express their grave concern over his actions. Mr. Robertson expressed his opinion to a worldwide television audience in the name of Christ. He deserves much scrutiny.
@Becky, if you feel that approach should have been taken (though I think you are misunderstanding the context of Matthew 18) did you contact Dr. Moore personally before taking up your reproach in the comments section of his blog?
@Jeremy Bradshaw, I’m not sure that Becky was reproaching Dr. Moore so much as simply asking him a question.
As an adoptive mom of five beautiful weirdos I want to thank you for articulating what I could not. If my family is weird, than I will consider that a badge of honor.
As an adult former foster child I find is implication that those of us who have survived adversity are profoundly and permanently damaged and not worth the effort offensive, and clearly untrue.
HOWEVER, when we talk about so-called “Orphan Care” worldwide what we are talking about is “Orphans,” the majority of whom have one living parent and poverty is the overwhelming factor in their availability for adoption. When people quote:
“James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”
I am always struck by the fact that it says AND, The fatherless AND widow, it says nothing about take her child, change their name seal its birth-certificate and make them “your own.”
Abused and intentionally neglected children need and deserve loving permanent homes. Children living in poverty who have parents who want and love them but can’t feed them, deserve to be helped at HOME with their family of origin where they belong.
@Sunday Koffron,
Bravo! As a fellow adult adoptee, I completely agree with your comment. The NT mention of us being “adopted” as God’s children, could have actually been more accurately translated from the original biblical language as “reunited” as God’s children. He didn’t have to adopt us because we were His creation. Adoption, as it is practiced in today’s society, is not the same. Adoption today strips the adoptee’s name, identity, and heritage from them. States are beginning to pass laws which restore this human right to adult adoptees, in accessing their original birth certificates.
So thankful that God is not my adoptive Father, He is my Creator, Father, and Healer.
Although not a Baptist, I am a Christian and I have long thought that Mr. Pat Robertson was more interested in ratings of the masses rather than preaching the gospel of Christ and carrying that message to a lost and dying world. It appears that he’s not read or studied his Bible in a very long time. I quit watching him several years ago and when I am home and accidentally come across his program, It reaffirms my reasons for not watching…to affirm murder, divorce, homosexuality, etc. is not in the Bible anywhere. God does say to love the sinner, but hate the sin! Why can’t we, as a nation, put ourselves back together and become a God fearing nation again? Get out and teach the Bible, but first read it and pray unceasingly for our nation. a nation that does not know God, does not know how to work for a living. If we all work together for God, he will give the increase. Read and pray, get out and tell others about God, don’t be afraid. Oh and one more thing…turn off the TV and take up the cell phones and smart phones for and from our children….they can’t learn if they are waiting for a text or a phone call….it is insane to let them train themselves. They have a lifetime after high school to be on their own.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
I am deeply disturbed by Pat Robertson’s comments. My wife and I have 9 adopted children and it is a joy and privilege to call them our own (Although they’re His own). Adoption is emulating God’s love of us.
There is something so special and miraculous when adopting a child - redemption, hope, comfort, joy, life, relationship and unconditional love. When we walk with God to welcome ANY precious child, made in His image we come close to God’s heart and we experience a special intimacy with Him found nowhere else.
We may not all be called to bring a child into our home, but we ARE all called to defend and protect the orphan, and that is something we can’t ignore any longer Church.
Pat Robertson’s comments not only have hurt the hearts of families who have adopted children, and grieved the Holy Spirit, but most of all, and I agree with Russell Moore that these comments are not from the LORD, they are well and truly from the enemy who comes to kill and destroy.
I am so sad for Pat Robertson, and I am sad that he has abused his position of influence in Christian media to speak words of callousness and disregard for precious children.
As someone who was adopted, THANK YOU.
I don’t like what Pat Robertson said at all, but judging him is just as bad. Stand against the untruth of his words, not against the man. Saying things like, “…what matters is health and wealth and power…” about his motives, is making a definitive statement about what’s inside his heart, and only God knows what’s there. It’s unfortunate that someone who is so far past his prime as a leader would remain so influential, but remember not to battle the flesh and blood. There’s so much we could pick apart, but that’s the way the world behaves–let’s not be like them. Remember, too, that he is your brother.
@Sarah Adams, Is he? Is Pat R. really our “brother”? I don’t get that “kindred spirit” kinda feeling when I hear him speak. Nah, I just don’t see it. Not being judgemental…just a fruit inspector, and what I’m seeing out of this guy is rotten to the core!
@Sarah Adams, Thanks Sarah. You are right.
@Sarah Adams,
I agree with you, Sarah, and feel sad about this whole issue. I am sad that Pat R. said something off the cuff that he didn’t think through properly (and perhaps not totally with his whole mental capacity intact at his age). I have four adopted children I love very much, but adopting children is not for everyone. I don’t really understand the purpose of the woman’s question to PR in the first place. Did she think really think her could advise her in this area in 10 seconds? (sigh) She needs to seek God to direct her regarding marriage and a father for her children…not PR! It is wrong now in return to attack PR and judge him and his motives. He is a man and he makes mistakes at times, but the few times he has put his foot in his mouth certainly do not totally discount everything he has done for God during his lifetime. It is ridiculous to judge him in this way and we will all have to stand accountable for when we do that to others. God is our judge.
I am an atheist. I have a lot of friends and family who are Christians, so I know that there are only a handful of Christians out there who give religion a bad name.
While I truly believe that Mr. Robertson may have something wrong with him (dementia/altzheimers etc.), it is good to know that there are many more good folks out there besides those that are within my own circle.
Thank you all
Thank you soooo much for this :) As a mom of an internationally adopted child, the last thing I think when I ever saw or looked at him or any of the other children is “weird”. What a blessing from God that He allowed me to be a mom to this child who has blessed me more than I could ever bless him. I thank God He adopted me into His family. I pray that soon Pat Robertson won’t be “representing” anything on television.
Jesus was adopted, Moses was adopted. As a counselor I point out the BIblical stories of children who were adopted in the Bible to those children who are struggling with their own adopted. God uses adoption for His purpose.
Hey, we as Christians are all adopted into the family of God!
There are no orpans in the Kingdom of God.
Hart, your feelings are well understood.
Dr. Moore.
Thank you. That’s all. Just “thanks.”
This man is either cruel and has lost his way or he is showing signs of great senility. I used to watch him a couple decades ago and I don’t remember him being like this. I remember wondering if he was a phoney, though.
I am not surprised at all, I am just surprised he still tricks enough people into donating to his ministry. This man is a wolf and loves to devour sheep. I am so grateful that God saved me from the health and wealth gospel!
I am an internationally adopted kid. And my mom watches the 700 Club every time it’s on. Thank GOD she doesn’t take everything this man says to heart.
Adoption is a hard calling, it’s true. And so is the gospel.
Thank you for your passionate defense of the true Gospel, and once again for being the advocate of ‘the least of these.’
Thank you for once again drawing a straight line from Robertson’s false Prosperity Gospel to his Cross-less ‘christian’ practice –”The issue is that his disregard is part of a larger worldview. The prosperity and power gospel Robertson has preached fits perfectly well with the kind of counsel he’s giving in recent years.”
I hope that those tuned in to the “grinning cartoon characters” on TBN will at last wake up to what it really preaches, and turn it off. Keep preaching, Dr. Moore, and we’ll all keep praying for those eyes to be opened!
i took the liberty of sharing some of this on facebook…hope you dont mind…if so..i will remove it..
Dr. Moore, Thank you!
Is Pat Robertson saying “don’t adopt from foreign countries”?
I’m no Pat Robertson fan (nor of CBN, nor television false prophets, nor his charismatic prosperity gospel), but listening back at the clip he’s speaking about the difficulties in dating brought about by doing something noble and good like adopting.
If a man dating a woman said “I love you, I want to date you and, oh by the way, I have committed my life to living in poverty in India to reach the lost”, what would you expect the woman to do?
The man would have spent time, counted the cost, diligently prayed about his full on commitment and responsibility over months and years. But a new woman he meets would be shocked by the new commitment being asked of her. She’s had no time to consider it and being in a relationship with the man would require a huge responsibility without really knowing the man yet.
That’s a lot of pressure to put on the woman to change her whole life and move to India and live in poverty. Not that it wouldn’t be noble and God-serving, but most women would bolt. We wouldn’t demonize her as ungodly, not spiritual, and a “dog”. It’s understandable that it’s a bit of “too much, too soon.”
In the same way, asking a man to come into a commitment with three adopted children of three different backgrounds and take physical/financial/spiritual responsibility for them is asking a lot for a new relationship. It’s not that it wouldn’t be noble, but it’s likely to be too much, too soon.
(This is much different than adoption done together as a married couple where both spouses have time to come to grips with the situation and the commitment they would get the privilege of taking on, and then enter into it together.)
Robertson (again, not a fan) is trying to relay this point.
@Adam, Very good point. Too bad it seemed to get lost in the shuffle. I have a strong desire to adopt after I get married - enough so that if I was interested in a woman who was dead set on not wanting to adopt, even I thought we were otherwise great for each other, I’d probably not end up marrying her. But us making a choice together to adopt together vs her having already adopted are two different things - and in the later situation I don’t know for sure what I would do.
@Adam, It does appear that he is trying to relay that point. And I agree the issue, and answer, is that not all men are able or willing to commit to the huge responsibility of the needs of three adopted children. However he made that point very poorly. Why not tell the woman that she has done a very noble thing? Why not encourage her to trust that even though these other men aren’t able to commit to her that God has committed to meet her needs. Why not pray that God will bless her with a brave man willing to join her in the task of raising these children and encourage her to hold out hope that God will bring him into her life. Unfortunately, instead of providing a healthy perspective Robertson has raised an entirely different point by his poor choice of language.
@Adam,
Thanks. Your comments are perhaps the most insightful yet.
What bothers me the most about all of this is that the biggest complaint about Pat Robertson is that he wasn’t responding like Christ would … and yet, I’m not convinced that Dr. Moore’s response (and most of everyone else’s) is how Christ would have responded to Dr. Robertson.
While I rarely watched the 700 club, and would agree that Dr. Robertson should probably stop responding to letters on the air, I still respect him as my brother in Christ. I don’t agree with much of his theology, and know people that have been hurt by his ministry … but I also have seen God use him for the sake of the gospel. With all that said, our response should be one of clarification and compassion … not condemnation.
@Adam,
Then Robertson should have said, “While adoption is indeed a gospel picture, adopting a child is a hard calling. If you answered that calling, then God bless you. Instead of being offended by the men you’ve dated, pray for them. And pray that God will allow you to meet a strong, godly man who embraces the gospel and not merely its personal eternal benefits.”
What he said instead reflected his true heart on the matter. His words were indeed offensive, even if his intentions were not.
Oh…I am so so sad…
we are humbled parents of a little “weird” boy from another nation according to PR! Praise God for His sovereign plans..
I believe that if God has called you to adoption He will equip you for all that is needed to parent that child or children. And so sorry..but we don’t get to see what that will look like ahead of time… we are called to obedience….we are called…not asked or given a choice…God calls each of us to do His work that He has prepared in advance for each of us to do.
praise to God for the man’s willingness to “opt out” it is a blessing for that woman..just wait for the man God has already picked out to partner with you and parent those children.
One last thought….. adoption is completely about the Gospel…and redemption…. I am watching the salvation and redemption of my little guys life unfold before my eyes….all that the enemy did to destroy..God is redeeming! Glory to Him for what He does with a willing and obedient heart!
Amen!
Thank you. And, Amen!
Pat grew old weird…
Pat Robertson must have some serious, end of life mental defect. He really needs to get off television and retire. He is “weird”. He does NOT represent the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Come to think of it, I’m not sure I believe he ever did.
Beautifully said sir. Thank you for standing up for adopted children. Particularly your line about men manning up to responsibility. I am an adopted child that God mercifully saved from living in a single parent household, and gave me a father who sacrificed himself for myself and my adopted sister as well. Bloody Christianity is truly the only kind that moves mountains with its faithful push. Its the only kind that pushes violently enough.
On reflection, watching again, there might be some sensible points in PR’s response, and he might be over compensating having heard the presenter’s reaction. The trouble is, watching that clip is like watching the Chuckle Brothers (Americans can Google them… ;D) as he makes error after error in his language.
I think his basic point is that it’s not bad for a man to not want to take on threee adopted children, even if he would take on three natural children. The fact of the matter is that a large proportion of adopted children (larger than the population as a whole anyway) will have experienced some level of abuse as children and as a result might have a more complex life situation. This means that on average looking after an adopted child will be a larger commitment than a biological child. It might be that the adopted children struggles with issues of acceptance, and so to have another adult come into that situation can throw the child off balance, and even if it doesn’t it could be something the man isn’t prepared for.
Of course, PR makes a catalogue of errors which might portray a wrong worldview; for example talking about the ‘United Nations’ (which sounds closet racist), saying ‘weird’, referring to a child as ’somebody else’s problems’ (although to be fair he might have been referring to the child’s problems. However the underlying point might still be correct.
Essentially, it’d be wrong for the men to launch into it jsut because they were attracted to the mother. It would also be wrong to instantly dismiss it without praying it through and asking God whether He’s put the guy in this position. He also makes the point that you can help orphans without adopting them, which is very true. Again, an error he makes is that in overreacting he makes it sound as though he’s saying nobody needs to adopt orphans because they aren’t your problem, which likely isn’t at all what he meant.
At the end of the day, the woman presenter shouldn’t have trivialised an important question and judged the men so quickly over what might have been a responsible decision, whilst PR should learn to be more sensitive in his language, and perhaps reconsider some of his views if he articulated them correctly.
Has this writer or any of his commenting audience actually watched the episode of the 700 Club they are trying to shred? Or is this just another part of the liberal media straw man arson frenzy?
Hey Dr. Moore,
This is Pat here and wow was I smoking crack when I said that! Thanks for calling me out. Hey I have an idea how about you join my staff and write my material for me? I’ll pay you double what your making now and save you some time and the evangical community some embarrassment. What do you think? To everyone I brutally hurt and treated sub human…consider the source…I kinda have a bad track record for hurting people and making Jesus and Christianity look ridiculous. This is Pat signing out until next time be nice to everyone accept your acholic brother who you should disown because God already has.
(whooppppsss….sorry again! Dr. Moore help!! )
Signed in complete need to retire
Fake Pat Robertson
Dr. Moore, I respect you and normally agree with you. I do not disagree with any of your main points in this post either. However, I would caution you against going so far as to do harm against another via vitriol or slander. There is one point that needs to be made; yes, it is a small point: the question did not come from a woman concerning a man backing away from marriage. The question came from a woman who spoke of men backing away after a few dates or after just having met her. These men are not leading her on and then dumping her because of her adopted children. You must simply get the facts straight. Remember the context of the question; Mr. Robertson was letting her know that these men are not obligated to continue dating her. We do not know their circumstances at all, so it is impossible to declare that they should remain in a courting relationship with her. Mr. Robertson did not dismiss the Christian mandate of which you speak in his answer of the question- again, context. His language was regrettable and crass, but that does not allow us to abdicate our responsibility to be gracious and kind. For you to refer to him as a “cartoon character” is rude and beneath someone of your stature.
@Tom Larson, while I agree that we as Christians must be careful with our choice of words, especially when rebuking someone who claims to be a brother/sister in Christs, we must be careful. But calling him a cartoon character is not that insulting, nor is it off the mark. When people start saying things as crazy and idiotic as Robertson’s remark, sometimes you need stronger words than simply “misguided” or “not on the right path”, etc. Remember that Jesus called the Pharisees “whitewashed tombs” and a “pit of vipers.” Not exactly the most pleasant things to be called. Be sure, though, that I am not condoning childish name-calling or ridicule. However, Mr. Moore has done none of that and has proven himself to be far more respectable and commendable than Robertson has.
@Tom Larson, Amen!
I believe PR was reacting to referring to these men who refused to continue dating this woman with adopted children, as “dogs.” He is not anti-adoption, I believe, having seen the show, he was making the point that these men were not dogs, because they did not continue dating this woman.
I do believe that PR’s response was emotionally charged and he poorly made his point.
But at the same time, even though I do not agree with PT on many things doctrinally, I find it inappropriate and wrong for Dr. Moore to proceed to emotionally refer to PT as “of the devil.”
I believe the choice of words from both parties is dishonoring the name of God instead of bringing Him the glory He deserves.
@Tom Larson,
What Dr. Robertson said, he said on the spur of the moment and stumbled through his words that were not well thought out and had a greater impact than he probably intended (he even recognized that at the end). What Dr. Moore wrote, was written out and I assume was given careful reflection. I’m not convinced that either man gave a proper Biblical response to a complicated question that clarified the truth and that compassionately demonstrated the love of Christ.
@Tom Larson, Well said!
I see some have started focusing on the fact that the man turns away from the woman because of having adoptive children. I do not disagree with the man for not taking this on if he does not feel he can handle it. That is not the point here though. The point is PR spoke that adoptive children may have mental disorders and be weird. And from the UN? I and my wife have an adoptive son from Taiwan and we made the decision not to adopt special needs but we in no way feared or believe our son will be weird or have mental problems. That was just a very ignorant and insensative thing to say to a host of watchers that just might still believe in PR words as wise teaching. He has a responsibilty to present accurate, Word driven teachings and not to paint a picture to nonbelievers that all Christians share these ideas. Foolishness.
Speaking of brain damaged and weird, Pat’s finally tumbled over the brink.
As the grandfather of three beautiful adoptees–all of whom struggle, naturally–it seems to me we are to minister to the least of these. Apparently only certain types of people qualify for Pat’s compassion. I mean, we wouldn’t want anyone weird in the kingdom, would we?
What PR said was really wacky and nuts. So our response is to turn up the venom even more? And why do so many of the commenters here sound absolutely crazy?
“But we’re so righteously angry *foam* that it’s a HOLY crazy.”
Whatever.
@Steve Mooradian, I absolutely agree with you!
Wake everybody up! Excellent Journalism!
This is the most despicable, ridiculous thing I have ever heard and that you have ever said! Pat Robertson you should be ashamed of yourself!!!
I never was a huge fan of the 700 Club to begin with and you just reminded me why that was.
Thank you for that.
Oh and you need to pray about what you said. Who knows? maybe when you stand before God on Judgement Day He will say, I really didn’t want to be beaten and nailed to a cross for a bunch of sinners. I didn’t know that they could turn out to be judgmental, closed minded individuals.”
I just yelled a WOO! really loud in my mind. MY 4 kids (2 adopted and 2 bio - 4,3,2 and 6mo) are sleeping down the hall. Well done as always.
So what are the reasons which someone is allowed to have for deciding not to marry someone? Since apparently other people not involved in said potential marriage get override power on this….
@Daniel B, I don’t think Moore was criticizing Robertson for siding with the man who didn’t want to marry the women with the children. His point was that Robertson has a very un-Christlike view of adoption.
Please just read this:
http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/life/lifestyle/an-ordinary-extraordinary-family-the-clarks-of-mckeesport-have-adopted-six-chinese-children-with-disabilities-648657/
Thank you, thank you, thank you! You said everything I feel all lumped up in my throat! Thank God I serve a loving God who accepts me no matter what race I am or what mental abilities I have!
Well stated Russ. I have fostered 36 and adopted two of them. Both with special needs. Through the pain and heartache of their suffering I have a peace and joy that is indescribable.
I know you agree that adoption and blending families is not a “calling” for everyone. However, I would rather let the Bible and leading of the Holy Spirit be my guide and not Pat.
Bless you for stating this so well!
It’s called dementia.
Pat Robertson is “weird” and “messed up,” and yet God adopted him.
You had me hollerin’ Hallelujah by the time you were finished! Bloody cross gospel, that’s awesome! I’m traveling this October to Serbia to minister in a mental institute. I fully anticipate meeting Jesus in the halls of that institution. He’s already there I’m going to join him and I expect in the midst of the pain and “weird” people I will be on holy ground.
Robertson’s statement, “you don’t have to take on somebody else’s problems” is disturbing. Isn’t that what Jesus did for me? I was certainly a problem, dead in my sin, and he took me on, adopted me, cleaned me up, loves me even when I’m “weird”. I think the heart of grace is that we do take on other people’s problems.
Thanks for your powerful response to his ungodly words!
Pat Robertson was being direct and forthright regarding this issue. Children are so precious; to have them hurt, abused, neglected hopefully makes us all weep with great sadness. Are most Christians and churches willing to sacrifice for a child that has been placed in their midst who has deep scars (emotionally and physically) and whose adopted parents find it difficult in coping with the consequences of abuse, abandonment, etc. Simple, quick answer . . . No.
These thought may have been addressed, but . . . I’m wondering why and how this woman was able to adopt three children . . . was she ever married? . . . did her husband die? . . . how is she supporting the children? She said “men she dates” therefore it sounds like she has a lot of time to seek out a number of companionship ‘encounters.’ Does she have a church family? Why is she writing to the 700 club for answers? What happened to “I kissed dating ‘goodbye.’” Does she have an immediate family . . . a mother, father, siblings, cousins. At first blush, she seems rather desperate in many ways. God’s word states that we are to weigh the cost of . . . building a house . . . getting involved in suing another . . . etc. For these men to say “Whoa,” (probably, under their breath) is a sign of intelligence and other commendable qualities. Stepping back and taking an objective look at all facets of such a commitment is necessary. I believe that any mother whose son was considering marrying her would be just a little apprehensive.
THEREFORE, I believe this was a fake person with a ‘bait’ question.
NOW, if you want to discuss an issue that came up just this week on the 700 Club (via Pat Robertson), I have one. The show (Wednesday’s or Thursday’s show, I believe) had a segment on Spain and their dire economic / financial problems. After the segment, Pat Robertson commented how ‘rich’ the country had been for centuries noting the exquisite buildings and other monumental feats. Also, mentioned was the gold they had acquired from exploring the ‘new world.’ Hummm . . . where does one begin with that statement!?! The hope of spreading the Good News has never been truly realized in South or Central America – may the Lord Jesus Christ be merciful and, by the power of the preaching of His word and the power of the Holy Spirit unleash a drenching of truth into the minds and hearts of these beloved people created in His image. May they accept Him as their Savior and Lord – I want to meet them all, don’t you
@Kay Coleman, Umm, maybe it was a plant, maybe a man would be wise to think twice about marrying into this ‘family’ (Even without children this should be a cautiously made decision.) But this article wasn’t about the lady or the man in the question, it was about Pat. His bad advice, his faulty theology, and his pandering to pragmatists everywhere.
His theology, even his doctrine of salvation, has been tainted by his health/wealth gospel, and his dominionist view, for decades. I’d like to think that God has indeed used him, but I’m much more certain the devil has. I hope his faith is genuine but people should just stop watching this stuff. Bottom line.
This discussion has been so interesting, and at times, infuriating to read. I wanted to add that adoption is a DESIRED option for many families and that the “wait-time” to adopt is quite long. So there are lots of families seeking adoptive children!!! Using a Christian platform to relay his feelings was clearly misguided. I hope he is able to meet people who can open his eyes a bit.
regarding the divorcing his wife because of Alzheimer’s, I have watched 2 grandparents go through it. In fact, my grandmother’s health declined largely due to the stress of caring for my grandfather as his mental faculties declined and he knew her even less and less. When her time came to be diagnosed with it, she was often paranoid in dealing with care givers, thinking they were trying to harm her or were stealing from her. It was truly heart wrenching when my father came back from his last visit with her before she graduated to Heaven, she did not recognize him the entire 2 weeks he was there with her.
Additionally, my father is now in a similar situation with my mom. She was diagnosed in March with a very aggressive and terminal lung cancer and he has been by her side, caring for her the entire time as her health has declined. He has taken her to see doctors locally and even driven her hours to go see “specialists” (her cancer is so rare that there are only 7 such specialists in the country, so I put it in quotes because at that low a level of study, nobody is actually an expert, IMHO). Ironically, and most poignantly in contradiction to Pat R., my mom has noticed that single women about her age have been spending a LOT of time coming to help my dad care for her. They see how caring he is with her and how much he sacrifices to care for her and I suspect they are hoping he’ll be interested in one of them once my mom graduates.
Ol’ Pat is a wicked man. I don’t know of too many men who’ve (allegedly) been in the faith so long who seem so spiritually stupid.
The fact that ANY Christian still watches him is an indictment on the evangelical church if there ever was one.
The CBN has a record, through the ministries of the 700 Club, of tremendous good both nationally and internationally. Millions of needy people have been clothed, fed, had their lives changed through contributions of the godly partners of this great ministry. True, unfortunately, Pat Robertson has made some mindless statements and have been pilloried for these utterances. Have you or your colleagues thought of engaging him, and also the ” cartoon characters ” in the spirit of brotherly love ?
@Lynden Minott, Amen!
Pat Robertson is NOT without fault, as is the author of this article…or myself for that matter. We are ALL sinners the last time I checked with the Holy Word of God. So although I don’t agree with everything ANYONE says,( in their span of ministry…) I will say…that we are to follow no man. Why? Because mankind is infallible. I can’t begin to tell you of the ‘Christians’ who point to some pastor or man when they converse with you, like they are the ‘end-all-of-all-end-alls’…I KNOW this is wrong. But I do not say they are not Christians, because they do this…as we all have to work out our salvation with FEAR & TREMBLING.
When it comes to Christianity…we are all OPININATED. Some base their opinions on Scripture, some on life’s experiences, some even base their opinions on secular or Christian opinions of others because they ’sound good’ to them.
But let’s get this straight…no matter how practicle or wordly-wise the opinion, IF it does not line up with the Word of God…then it is wrong!
One such commentary I have found popular amongst Christian circles, is the talk of the amount of children a couple decides to have…It seems to me, that in alot of CHRISTian circles, to be frowned upon… at least once the couple reaches a certain number. Now this never lines up with the Word of God, because the Bible clearly tells us, “…BLESSED is the man whose quiver is FULL of them…” But this OPINION has been popular in the SECULAR world…and that’s where it comes from. We are to keep ourselves from adopting the world’s views on life, and stick to what God thinks about these matters. Then we can truely line ourselves up with Him and not others…
The man really needs to stop doing the questions and answers portion of the show. I actually appreciate having the 700 club to watch every night but know that he is probably going to say something dumb or hurtful during that portion of the show. I say put Gordon on there full time.
AMEN! Thank you for writing this!
I think many commenters hit the nail on the head when they stated PR is losing his mental acuity. It is time he is removed from the air and replaced with Christians who can accurately and passionately represent the spirit of Christianity. His statements about adoption were so horrendous and hurtful and a full apology by the station is warranted. I agree with other posters regarding the gentleman in question and his right to not date a woman who already has children. I am thankful my husband did not have this attitude when we married as I had a child from a previous marriage, but I did encounter other men who were not willing to date me once they found out I had a child. That was fine by me and I was happy to send them on their way. Obviously, this woman felt led of the Lord to adopt these sweet children, and I truly believe the Lord will bring her a mate who shares her heart. In the meantime, good riddance to men who are unable to accept her choice. Finally, as Christians, we deal with leaders like PR by refusing to give our dollars to his ministry until the obvious concerns within his organizations are rectified. For those who currently support PR’s ministry, take those dollars and give to an organization supporting orphans, widows, foster families, etc. The only way to “wake up” people like PR and his ilk is to effect their pocketbook.
Thank you for speaking truth and wisdom. This is not an issue about Christians divided about an issue. This is an issue about a Biblical perspective vs. an ungracious, uninformed, and non-Biblical perspective. What a great blessing to adopt a child who may not have had the love and care that a biological child has had, but to get the amazing opportunity to pour your hearts and lives into that child!
Love this. We’re in the middle of adopting, potentially trsnsracially. I have to say our church and the Christian community I see is very supportive of this. Robertson is a bigot and a tool, and I appreciated your measured response. Thank you.
That last sentence gives me chills. Profoundly good.
Thank you so much for speaking up. I agree that a lot of his statements are ‘way off’. But, I also believe that as Christians we should respect each other, and some of the the comments posted here are just disrespectful. Yes he should retire…but lets remember everything he has done in the past for Christian Broadcasting.
Pat Robertson clearly suffers from Depraved Indifference, just like many other Christians. See here what I mean!!
http://www.ellerslie.com/Depraved_Indifference.html
I watched PR with an audible gasp and grieving heart. We have 5 kids and 3 are adopted from 2 countries and all 3 with some special needs. Yes. They are a bit “wierd”, but I guess I am too for adopting these “broken hearted” kids that needed a FAMILY (not just food and shelter) when I could be an empty nester playing golf rather than changing diapers til I’m 60. Unfortunately, many Christians may agree with PR when comes to actually “sacrificing their lives to adopt”. While Believers often agree in theory, I fear many are thinking what PR said. It is “easier” to send a check, but far more rewarding to “lay down your life” to enter into a covenant relationship with a child. It is hard. It is tiring, but it is sooo beautiful beyond words.
Firstly …I don’t agree with what Mr. Robertson said about adoption. It’s wrong, no question about it!
But, Christians go to missions & coffee houses or street ministries to feed & minister to street people & basically say(or think) the same thing. We don’t bring the street people into our house, we keep them at arms length & go to them, but rarely if ever do we bring them to us.
I just wonder if many who are aghast at what he’s saying here have the same attitude as Roberston about others we minister to like prisoners, drug addicts etc?
@purisomniapura, Because an orphan from another country is just like a prisoner or a drug addict?
@purisomniapura, an orphan is a helpless child that has no control over their own life whereas a prisoner or drug addict is in the situation they are in do to choices they have made and there are many ministries all over the United States that are doing amazing ministry interventions for adults. Christian halfway homes are plentiful. Just look at the list of amazing organizations on this page: http://www.tbnsecondchance.org/touch.php
There are 143 million orphans throughout the world. Families for these orphans are not plentiful. “Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” Matthew 9:37 Those 143 million orphans are 143 million souls that are longing to have a family and know love and whether we want to look at the reality or not - it is there staring us in the face. One day each of those 143 million souls will have a choice to make whether to accept Jesus or deny Him - who is going to tell them? how are they going to know God’s love for them if we do not show them His love? why would they say “yes” to Jesus if we have chosen to say “no” to them? While I agree that God’s Kingdom work is vast and there are many opportunities to serve Him by loving His people, trying to equate bringing home adult prisoners and adult drug addicts with adopting children who are orphans doesn’t really make sense to me.
Dr. Moore,
Thank you for your excellent response.
doesn’t he realize we are adopted into the family of God?
moron
Thank you Mr. Moore.
As an adoptive father, I applaud you on your commentary. There was no reason PR needed to say “taking on the United Nations”. Even though my family is ethnically Asian, my wife is Canadian and my son is from Russia. God preordained that my life would be blessed with a diverse family. As a seminarian, I have been studying the importance of the adoption metaphor in relation to God’s adoption of all believers. PR comments have discredited Paul’s intent for the adoption metaphor. If, according to his opinion of adoption, God would be very selective looking for the very best of us to adopt into his eternal forever family.
AMEN! Thank you for this post.
Dr. Moore. In general, I don’t have a great deal of respect for many of the espoused values I have seen coming from STS for many years.
However, I must commend you for having the courage and integrity to speak what you have here. I agree with your comments here and applaud your speaking as plainly and strongly as you have.
My only issue is with single moms adopting children. Children need both a mother and a father. I’m not sure why this lady had three adopted children and no husband? That piece is left out.
@Lowell Exum, wow. can’t believe how insensitive your comment is. Really?!?! You think it is better for children to grow up in an orphanage without any family than be adopted by a single loving mom? I’ll answer that question as a mother to two adopted children - NO WAY! If you have even stepped one foot into an orphanage in a 3rd world country, you would understand the dire plight many of these children find themselves in. Despite the orphanage nannies best efforts they can’t possibly care for all of the children and love them completely like a mother would. I applaud single Christian women who follow God’s calling on their lives and adopt children to raise them up in a heritage of Christian faith and love. These kids have a father and it is their “heavenly Father” and before you question the actions of another, better take a look at your own life. What radical things are you doing for Christ? How have you stepped out of your comfort zone and given all for Him? What step of faith have you taken that has challenged you and asked you to give up everything for the sake of Christ Jesus so that another soul may come to know the saving power of Jesus and understand the fullness of His love and His grace? One of our beloved missionaries of the faith, Gladys Aylward, was a “single mom” who adopted children without a husband and I’d LOVE to hear what she would say about your comment or Mother Theresa - what words of wisdom she would have for your judgmental statement. Or what would Queen Esther say - (read Esther 2:7)an orphan herself having neither father nor mother was raised by her uncle but perhaps because she did not have a “proper” mother and was being raised by a “single” dad, he should have put her in an orphanage? I can only imagine God’s thoughts on your take on adoption. “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families, he leads forth the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.” Psalm 68:5-6 Last time I checked, God doesn’t need our help with HIS job! Setting the lonely in families, bringing these children out of the prison of an orphanage, and being their heavenly father - this is HIS truth! “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” James 1:27
Of course, this man has a right to decide not to marry this woman, but if the only reason he has is that she has adopted children. Then shame on him for he is missing out on a beautiful blessing of loving a precious child of God with the love and open arms of Christ. “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” Matthew 25:40
@Lowell Exum,
You are assuming she was single when she adopted these children or do you know that she was? She might be a widow or her husband left her.
Read this and could not believe it! I knew I was adopted!
Outstanding.
What is really sad as I hear his comment and read many of the replies is this belief that all adopted children are “damaged”. I have two girls from China and they are sweet, special girls. I praise God on a daily basis that I adopted girls and never had biological children. What is equally tragic is that many give their tithes and offerings to the 700 club thinking they are giving to God. It is too bad this money is not going to help orphans, feed the poor, or help someone in their church adopt.
@Jack Kragt, It’s a great thing to adopt. It is God-like since He adopted His people.
Thank you for doing it!
Thank you for this article and the work behind it. The Gospel of our Lord Jesus is amazing.
This is a message that needs to ring loud and clear across America (in fact, the entire world). Thank you, Dr. Moore, for speaking the truth.
I’ve been listening to Robertson’s Christianity for the last 40 years and millions follow what he teaches worldwide. I ran from the church as fast as I could when afforded the choice not to attend or believe because of men like him, Oral Roberts, Benny Hinn, David Barton, Kenneth Copeland, Jerry Faldwell, Jim & Tammy Baker and every other example of the Christian faith. Not a religion worthy of my attention except when they try to enact the bible into law of the USA. Atheism is on the rise worldwide because all anyone can see & hear from the faithful is hatred of humanity if you don’t follow the teachings they say came from God. Let Pat blame gay people and “pacts with the devil” all he wants for the bad things that happen, it just creates that many more atheists and perhaps one day soon mankind will finally walk away from the Bronze Age and into a better life for all of mankind.
“They came with a Bible and their religion, stole our land, crushed our spirit and now tell us we should be thankful to the LORD for being saved.” Chief Pontiac Ottawa Native American
It is not wrong to question Robertson’s statement, but–considering the tone you take here–perhaps you should re-examine your own motives. Adopting orphans is good, but I have noticed that sometimes people who engage in that good work become self-congratulatory and boastful about it. No one is above the temptation, and, frankly Russ, hearing and reading some of the things you have said and written about the subject, has made me worry that you may have slipped into it.
He is un-Christlike in his recent views, regardless of how many people he did or didn’t “lead” to the Lord. The Word of God and the Spirit of God leads someone to repentance and salvation, men are secondary. Big leaders with big followings are in a very tough and tempting place in life. Some can be careful to police their own mouths when young, but then the true self comes out later when mental self-control is weaker. Yes, I’m older too. It appears that he is going the heretical way of Harold Camping of Family Radio. He should relinquish any control over the “ministry” and disappear into private life with his family. But he is used to the spotlight. Lord, keep us each humble. If we ever get in the limelight - please take us out before it’s too late.
Moore said: “The issue here isn’t just that Robertson is, with cruel and callous language, dismissing the Christian mandate to care for the widows and orphans in their distress.”
PR did not “dismiss the Christian mandate to care for the widows and orphans in their distress”. He even mentioned that CBN does work with and provide for orphans.
I cannot believe how badly Moore twisted what PR said. Many of the commenters pointed this out. PR was not speaking against adoption or caring for widows and orphans.
We know a pastor and his wife who adopted a young girl. She has non-stop done her best so far to rebell. She does not want a structured life. They have not given up on her. It is something to be considered. You have to consider what you can handle (both husband and wife).
I do not believe we can label the man a “dog” because he is being responsible and considering his ability to be a father and provider to this family. This would truly be a ministry in itself.
By mentioning no child support, I think the man is looking at what he can afford also. I would not take on this responsibility if I could not afford it.
I think all Pat was doing was voicing out loud what would need to be reasonably considered in this case. Most of the commenters on Moore’s article focused on adoption. This man was looking at marraige and adoption.
I didn’t read the whole article. I say pray for our leaders of the church. Read the Word of God for your self Hermanutically. Ask God for discernment on ANY and Everything you hear from ANY person and religion. The Bible is THE only authority of God and He Will give you the Truth. When I hear something like this. 1 I pray for God to have mercy on us. 2 Dont believe what is said that is not true. and 3 pass the truth on to others. I will still listen to the TRUTH teachers on TV. John Piper,John MacAurther, Tim Keller. But then there is the internet! :)
Pray for Pat you guys. He is a human being like ALL of us and needs God’s mercy and prayer like we ALL do. He also needs proper accountability and someone who can speak the truth in love to him as the book of Ephesians declares to us or he will continue to discredit his witness of Jesus before the world. It would be a tragedy if he cannot or will not repent for comments like these. PRAY FOR HIM, PLEASE! He’s a brother-in-Christ.
Also, one needs to understand that if you are giving money to the 700 Club before you give your tithe to your local church than your giving is unbiblical. Pat Robertson has been led by God and used by God but he is NOT god. Don’t set him up as an idol in your heart.
Perhaps Robertson needs to re-read James 1:27 “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.”
I usually don’t agree with anything Mr. Moore writes, though I’ve followed his work for several years because he is a terrific writer who effectively communicates what he’s trying to convey. BUT, Mr. Moore is completely correct in everything he’s written above. Mr. Robertson is a propagating a message completely antithetical to all denominations of Christianity.
As an adoptive parent and Christian, I am horrified by PR’s comments (as usual)….I am a single mom, to a child from a different race, and who does have some developmental issures. My son daily represents the gospel to me, and loving him has only strengthened my relationship with Jesus. I have never needed Him more, or understood so greatly my own adoption to the Father. I think the point is that no one on earth can love the way we should, which is why we need Jesus. When I hear people say, “oh I could never love a child who is not my own”, or “I could never adopt” that makes me so sad because people are closing themselves off to the possibility of God bringing them to a deeper and more extraordinary love. Adoptive parents are not individual’s more capable of love, but people who have been open to risky and radical love….its the same for people who choose to love homosexuals, love lepers, love the poor, etc….realistically I know not all Christians will adopt, but I wish we would…I do…only because I see the miracle of what it all means for all those involved. The instant they handed my son to me, I had a much greater understanding of the reality of my own adoption to the Father…why would anyone want to pass that opportunity up?
Paul’s words are alive and well.
6 For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions,
7 always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.
- 2 Tim. 3:6,7
Praying for the 700 Crew.
Mr. Robertson did NOT speak against adoption. He simply implied “count the cost” before you marry someone. When you adopt your children, they become your own and you grow with them. This woman had 5 children and Pat Robertson courageously gave wise advice. Russell Moore, you are taking comments out of context!!! Also, the alzheimers situation had many facets, insurance being one of them. Warning: People, please check out blog, especially negative and scorn-ridden information for yourselves. Rhetoric has way too much power these days!
@Deb Nap, that is EXACTLY right!!!
@Deb Nap, Exactly! Russell Moore did take Pat Robertson’s words out of context. Pat Robertson was speaking of a specific situation and warning people to be careful about adoption (although I do agree it came out very poorly). Pat Robertson never said: Those adopted kids might have brain damage; they’re “weird.” I don’t agree with everything Pat Robertson says, but this article may be more damaging to “the body of Christ” than anything Pat Robertson has ever spoken poorly. You had time to think it through and pray before you wrote this article; tearing down another believer and twisting his words. I believe that you will be held much more accountable in the end.
Christians are adopted people, and we came with the worst disability of all: sin. Praise God His love is greater than Pat Robertson’s!
Wow. That shouldn’t surprise me to hear this from Pat, as his penchant for bizarre comments has been demonstrated for many years. As an adoptive parent of eight children, some of whom being of different ethnicities than our own (and all of whose mothers were methamphetamine addicts), I can readily testify that the obvious is verifiable-Pat is clueless on this issue. While it is true that the children present challenges (2 siblings are Down syndrome kids), all have been a blessing to us. It is true that with “other people’s kids” there is more of the element of the unknown, and some tendencies are indeed hereditary, but adoption is to assist those without parents, not to receive a guarantee that children will be trouble-free and 100% delightful in every respect. Hopefully those who thoughtfully consider adoption will not be dissuaded by the ramblings of a man who is long past his prime and sadly unable to give sound, wise and godly counsel on any number of issues.
He is a man..never try to find God thru any man..you will be sorely disappointed. This man or any man involved in religion is going to have some perversions…God is not this way…I have heard a few things said by almost every person of God that makes you think What the…???but they are humans…even the Bible is written by men and the fears of their times have had things put in there that are NOT Godly and some of the main reasons there has been controversy for years and years..God is love…God and Jesus do not condemn..period…they dont judge because you are perfect in their eyes..and the know the real you..weather adopted or gay..or any color or any religion..there is no condemnation…just love..
@Sherry Robinson, How do you back up your statements with scripture? You speak heresy and do not know the truth of God. But you have already set up in your heart that you cannot be rebuked for you have said that the Bible is written by man and is flawed.
Jesus spoke more about Hell than Heaven. He spoke about judgement and “weeping and gnashing of teeth.” You claim to know God but such knowledge is based on your subjective view. This is a form of Gnosticism. God is love but He is also Holy. He does and will judge and He will condemn. To say otherwise is foolishness.
Thanks for responding. We have two adopted boys from China, 9 and 6, and am so grateful how they have taught us about our true status as adopted children of God.
One thought I had concerning Christ’s adoption: in contrast to the “normal” scenario of being abandoned, then adopted, God performed the opposite in reversing the curse.
Christ was adopted, as you say, then abandoned by his heavenly Father to buy us salvation. We are pure because we are purified, not because we’re born that way. From OT to NT to our current condition: we are a blended family of God.
I have watched this show for years and I have noticed that in the last several months that Pat is showing signs of lack of mental alertness. I’ve wondered if he has the onset of dementia or Alzheimers disease!!! It takes him longer to think of the answer and YES, I heard him say these things: about the children representing the United nations and the divorce situation. I ALSO NOTICED THAT THE female co-host’s Terri and Christy have come behind his words and given what I felt was the Biblical answer. Previously, Pat has been mentally quick, compassionate (esp. toward orphans), etc. There has been a dramatic change in his mental thinking. (Terri, one of the 2 female co-host, has adopted many international children). Pat’s organizations have helped and continue to help countless millions in the US & foreign countries so I know he is NOT normally prejudiced.
As followers of Christ our standard is love not convenience or self interest. Praying for Pat.
I don’t understand why anyone dishes out any opinions to anyone. How can anyone speak to someone as if their own opinion were the answer? A man following Jesus Christ would lead others to Jesus Christ. You don’t want to do something? Ask Jesus about it. His followers will hear his voice. Anyone just stating their own opinion as if that’s the Gospel is arrogant and putting themselves in the place of God. I don’t have an opinion on Mr. Robinson. I don’t know him. But this well written article speaks deeply to me pertaining to the Gospel. What is there to argue about?
To this woman, I would have replied that parenting is a huge commitment that can’t be forced and her boyfriend is obviously unwilling to take that on and is actually a good “fleece” for discerning if God is behind their relationship. It would seem they are unequally yoked because of this issue. If God is not putting this relationship together, it could explain why the man does not have a burden in his heart for adopting kids.
Pat’s comments were certainly flawed! With his advice to an older gentleman to divorce his alzheimer-stricken wife (what about “till death do us part?), I wonder if Pat’s own advanced years have caused him to worry excessively about mental impairment… and that gnawing worry being at the root of his comment that adopted kids could be “brain damaged”. It seems like Pat is becoming senile and saying things he likely would never have said years ago.
Amen Brother!!!!!
Dr. Moore, you forgot to mention Roberston’s suggestion that Hugo Chavez be assassinated by U.S. government operatives or that someone plant a nuke under the State Department…
For all who have been objecting to Dr. Moore’s comments in the name of “Christian charity” towards a prominent evangelical leader, I would simply remark that most heretics in the history of the Church were once prominent and respected leaders. I would also comment that not all heresy is Christological in nature. Robertson has embraced a gospel that roundly rejects the brokenness of Christ and His victory via surrender at the Cross.
Dr. Moore is entirely correct in his denunciations, precisely /because/ Robertson speaks under the mantle of leadership. He is also correct is saying that this is not Robertson going “off the reservation”; Robertson is squarely in the middle of the triumphalist, this-wordly theology he has adhered to for 30+ years. He’s just lost his ability to polish the message as slickly as he did before.
And by the way, I am a Pentecostal, not a Baptist.
I am an adoptive mom. [Those adopted kids might have brain damage] My oldest daughter was prenatally exposed to alcohol, methamphetamines and cocaine. She has partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, a diagnosis that falls under a spectrum of disorders commonly known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder or FASD. She was also severely neglected by her biological mother. She entered state care at the age of 4. She endured several placements before coming to my home. Her behaviors have been beyond challenging. My husband and I adopted twice more. So, we aren’t anti adoption. We don’t think adopting her ruined our life. In some ways, she has been a walking parable — my life’s best teacher.
And, I cringe when I hear churches and parachurch organizations pushing adoption as the answer to the way the church helps widows and orphans. Adoption is not a tool for evangelism. Every one who adopts a child should prayerfully consider whether or not they have the time, talents and treasures to parent that child to adulthood. If your Christian theology equates all bad behavior to sin, how will you treat or feel about a wounded child who is raging in your home? What about the brain damaged child who is not able to consider consequences and make good choices? How are you going to act as a parent when the child you adopted transitions into adulthood and has behaviors and choices that reflect the life and lifestyle of their families of origin?
Is your church supportive? Without a doubt, second only to the public school environment, church was the most difficult thing our family did with our daughter. We felt judged. She was excluded. We changed churches and the cycle repeated itself. Very few churches have a disability ministry. When I tried to reach out I was essentially told I had chosen to adopt. So, while Pat Robertson’s comments were unfortunate, they reflect the truth of my experience. Before the church continues to encourage adoption, I believe it should get a real good handle on a theology of disability and be ready to embrace the children that come into her care.
how quick we all are to condemn someone who says something considered to be stupid or beyond the box! I say this…once married it is to be a union only separated by death. Wedding vows of “in sickness or health - till death we do part” are sacred and alzheimers does not give permission for leaving your spouse in the eyes of God. Concerning not marrying someone because they have adopted children….well, if you felt that way upon meeting a person with adopted children why are you dating them in the first place???? True biblical love extends to adopted children and their parents. If you cannot extend God’s love to someone due to their parenting choices then walk away before the relationship even has a beginning. Then, after walking away, I suggest you search your heart, better yet, ask God to search your heart and reveal to you any thing that may cause Him to be sad with you.
I’m not justifying his comments But when are we going to stop being robots or christian clones. When does a persons opinion carry soo much weight? He is an old man and his cheese might be falling of his cracker. Recently I have been in a situation where my Pastor had a nervous breakdown and said some stupid things. I’m saying that with television we don’t have any biblical accountability through genuine church leadership. Sadly with my church and Pat Roberson you do not have accountability and people are fearful to stand up to take action when your leader says or acts out of order. I guess we will talk about this issue for a while and then we will forget about it until the next episode. Entertainment is just what it is. This is why all church operations were meant to fall under the local church. It’s a shame that we place so much weight on televangelist and what they have to say.
I love this. What amazing truth- thanks for posting.
Spot on brother!
I never was one to watch The 700 Club even during it’s hay-day, but this is out of hand. Doesn’t Pat Robertson have anyone to give him any wise counsel?
Pat’s statement has caused so much bad blood between us in the church, just reading the comments makes one weep, I do think that it’s time to stop making excuses for Pat Ronertson, he has been wrong so many times, yes many people have become Christian watching 700 club but it’s time for him to go, he is embarising the CBN and Regent University and the rest of us who are leaders in the church called upon to defend the indefensible, so buy, buy, Pat you did a good job, once
The NT mention of us being “adopted” as God’s children, could have actually been more accurately translated from the original biblical language as “reunited” as God’s children. He didn’t have to adopt us because we were His creation. Adoption, as it is practiced in today’s society, is not the same. Adoption today strips the adoptee’s name, identity, and heritage from them. States are beginning to pass laws which restore this human right to adult adoptees, in accessing their original birth certificates.
So thankful that God is not my adoptive Father, He is my Creator, Father, and Healer.
Amen.
You know what? I haven’t read every single post. The first few were enough. Can we please understand that Pat may have a problem and that he has steered us in the right direction for so many years? As an older person, now, he may be experiencing alzheimers, dimentia, any number of things that no one is willing to address because $ are going into their pockets? I have watched Pat for many years. I am 65. I have seen him, over the last 10 years, decline. Healthy, yes. Mentally, not so sure. I have been surprised at many of his answers to questions and, in his early years, I think they were so different. Give the man a break. He should step down, at this point. I do believe that. However, I will always love him. I think, at this point, he does not know what he does. But, I do think he loves the Lord.
@Carol Lee, Amen! I could not agree more! He has done more to help the orphans through the years than any of us have considered doing. I am so appalled at all the bashing of our brother in Christ!
As a Christian and minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I find this post and the responses disturbing.
Let’s exam the facts as presented (and I’m NOT a fan of Robertson):
-Pat was responding to a woman’s letter ABOUT men she dated
-Pat said that taking care of widows and orphans is the right thing to do.
-The link to the video was uploaded by People for the American Way which supports the GBLT movement and attacks Christianity and conservatives and has EDITED out something at 1:12 (I don’t know what as I can’t find the full version)
This idea that men are OBLIGATED to marry this woman after finding out she has three adopted children is absurd. Part of dating is understanding how compatible you are with someone. Why do any of these men HAVE to marry her? Would you have been happier if Pat told her that the men were dogs and going to Hell? The men didn’t write in with the question, the woman did. My wife has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work and can tell you that you can’t counsel someone about a third party. A counselor can’t fix the spouse of a client. They can only help their client work on their own thought processes and reactions.
The “weird” part is poorly wording but has a grain of truth to it. We must “consider the cost” of our decisions. My wife and I know MANY people who have chosen to adopt children. Some of those children are in therapy because they have SERIOUS issues stemming to how they were treated before adoption. Our friends do not regret adopting the children but there is a cost to their decision that they did not realize yet they MADE a decision to adopt. The men that refuse to marry this woman are making the decision not to. We cannot equate “caring for orphans and widows” with “marry them and adopt their children.”
The responses that I have seen are very troubling (I’m sure there will be plenty in reply to my comment). “Christians” are calling Pat a “moron” (aka ‘Raca’) and questioning whether Pat is Christian at all. The worst though is the author’s claim that Pat’s statement is “of the devil.” Really? You might not like Pat Robertson but how is ascribing his statements to Satan a good thing? It seems to me that everyone is so quick to attack this man and throw stones at him. Disagree with him but don’t seek to destroy. We cannot make ourselves look better by making someone else look bad.
I don’t know Mr. Moore, nor do I know anything about him other than what I just read on the “About” tab of this blog. I don’t know Pat Robertson personally, either. However, I respect him, and what I call his ministry for a number of reasons.
There have been references in this thread by people who have obviously taken as fact a third-party summary of this particular CBN broadcast (Mr. Moore’s, or another’s) , and failed to even watch the relevant video portion in its entirety.
I watched it live. I listened and read along with every emailed question / requested commentary on that episode, which included the one in question. I have to tell you all that you would do better to actually watch a YouTube clip that covered the entire question as well as the entire answer.
This had nothing to do with Pat Robertson’s theology regarding the biblical mandate of exercising true religion. In this aspect of obeying God’s law, I believe that he probably does more than all of the posters combined. Instead, his address was to a 42 year-old woman who was a single parent to 3 adopted children. She referenced several prior boyfriends being unwilling to marry her, and implied dismay that a single man would be unwilling to step into this situation. My wife and I were both stumped at the presumptive attitude of this woman toward boyfriends, and her laying on them an attitude of responsibility toward someone who had no hand in the prior decision to adopt.
It was to that attitude and mindset that Pat Robertson replied. There was no larger issue addressed. He mentioned that a single man will not necessarily want to take on the “challenges of the United Nations”. His reference to a child with brain damage was not disparraging toward less-than-physically-perfect children. Neither was his comment about a child growing up to be “weird”. He prefaced it with the single man not knowing if something had been done to a child earlier, or, by possible implication, how this particular woman may have perversely influenced the children by some unknown idiosyncratic anomoly in her household over which he held no control or influence.
Finally, he lauded his colleague, Terri Lewellen, for her heart towards adoption, and for the great many children she and her husband had adopted into their home.
I do not know anything about his subscribing the the damnable prosperity doctrine. The only thing I have ever heard him talk about or profile on his show is the blessings that flow from giving cheerfully.
I do not know what the “power” doctrine is. If it is a reference to the healings and deliverances from various demonic influences that happen on the show - then I can provide personal testimony that this is real.
@Anthony Dodson, I could not agree more. The question he answered was not whether or not to adopt.
In response to Mark Eric, I completely agree that the tone of this particular post and many of its comments is muddle-headed and histrionic.
However, just because some people are overreacting critically to this latest statement from Robertson doesn’t mean he hasn’t said anything worthy of harsh rebuke in the past, and I do think that in particular the comment about marriage and Alzheimer’s falls into that category. It’s so bad that it stands head and shoulders above anything else he’s ever said that’s stirred up comparable controversy, IMO. So let’s not just tuck that away and forget about it.
Yes, we should make distinctions, and yes, we shouldn’t mindlessly throw every statement Pat Robertson makes into the “of the devil” bin. With some people it seems to be all or nothing, and I recognize that that’s annoying and frustrating to those of us who are trying to bring clear thinking to the matter. But let’s also not just uniformly give him a break.
@yankeegospelgirl, I’m not “tucking” anything away. I’m dealing with the issue at hand which was the video clip posted. I’m curious as to why you feel that you need to use this video as a springboard to attack everything the man has said and done in the past? And that “break” I gave him? It’s called Grace.
A tongue and cheek response wasn’t appropriate in this situation. (If it was a tongue and cheek response.) Neither was the flippant use of the terms UN and weird. Brain damaged children who need families are not a joking matter-especially in the context of a woman sharing such a painful situation as being rejected by multiple men because of the children she so dearly loves.
His response should have been more serious and compassionate in tone, covering the importance of finding a mate who loves her children as they are. He also should have used the opportunity to answer the question by quoting Scripture to show us the heart God and how He adopted us and taught us to go and do likewise (or encourage those who do.) Substance is always better than flippancy when ministering to people.
Our youngest child (7) is an international adoptee from S. Korea and we have two biological children (16 and 14.) And no, not all believers are called to adopt anymore than all are called to pastor churches or become international missionaries. We could have hired a surrogate but God led us to adopt instead.
Go do what God called you to do-whatever that is and don’t be obnoxious to others as they do the other things God called them to do.
I watched both 700 Club programs where Pat Robertson talked about the man wanting to divorce his wife with Alzheimers and the one about the adopted children maybe turning out to be “weird”. I, like mos other Christians were appalled!! I could hardly believe my ears!!!!!! Chapter and verse, Pat, chapter and verse??? Jesus never taught something so cruel, so absent of any love.
I am seriously thinking of taking my 700 Club dollars and placing them with a ministry that does not allow such callous disregard for others. Yes, he IS getting old. We should not, however, give him license to say such things to millions of viewers and get away with it just because he’s old. Perhaps he’s getting DEMENTIA and we should DIVORCE him!
Here is my response to the known risks of adoption. We have 2 biological children (16 and 14) and our youngest (7) is an international adoptee from S. Korea. It would apply to anyone looking into adoption or considering marrying someone with adopted children.
It’s important that adoptive parents do their homework and understand the range of possible issues children from each country and types of circumstances can have and what resources are required to treat those types of issues. They must also consider the common behaviors children with different issues have and how that will affect any minor children already living in the home. Some children with particular issues do better in a home with no other children or with nearly grown children. Parents must be very realistic about how much supervision, at home follow up therapy, visits to specialists, and the like will be required on daily, weekly, yearly, and life time basis before deciding when and who to adopt. Then they must honestly decide what they are willing to do.
Every child has a chance of being born with special needs issues. Anyone who becomes a parent in any way has to face that possibility. There is a higher risk of special needs issues if that child has been exposed to drugs or alcohol in the womb, if the child’s biological parent has mental health issues that can be inherited, or if the child was exposed to abusive or neglectful situations before the child was removed from the home. Sadly, many countries (including the US) must remove children from dangerous situations and sever parental rights. Some of the damage done to children in those situations is permanent and some is treatable.
Other countries have social norms that do not tolerate illegitimacy and single motherhood. The only option some children have of living a life of social acceptance is going half way around the world and having a family internationally. Their birthmothers face a lifetime of social discrimination if it’s ever discovered they had a child outside of marriage.
Even children adopted at birth or from outstanding fostercare situations will eventually have to process and resolve feelings about being placed for adoption voluntarily. Some will have some of the behavior issues children from bad situations had. It’s not as common, but it is a possibility. Some children from terrible circumstances have none of the behavior issues children from bad situations have. There are no guarantees and the future can’t be predicted.
It’s important that adoptive parents seek out information from adult adoptees who have been through the process (they will have a wide range of views and experiences) and be prepared to support their child in ways that help. Good intentions aren’t enough. There is no experience that is the same as being adopted, and adult adoptees are the best sources of information-not social workers, not adoption agency workers, not adoptive parents.
There are specialists who deal with adoptees with issues. This is a specialty field of medicine and a regular child psychiatrists, church counselors, and pediatricians not competent to handle these things. Attachment Therapists and Developmental Pediatricians who specialize in adoptees are some of the best resources we have so far.
The best way to help adopted children is to match them to families that are realistic about their possible needs and who are prepared to adequately meet those needs-whatever those needs are-whenever those needs show themselves. Don’t go into adoption blind or with rose colored glasses.
This nut has been spewing hate and ignorance for close to 40 years and just now people are coming to the conclusion that there is something wrong here?
Christ always taught love and compassion for your fellow man. That we are all in this together and caring for one another is His greatest commandment. Watch out that no one deceives you — know your false prophets!
Baptists.
Screwtape has to love them best of all.
That one show may be the only shot someone seeking God has.
IMHO, It is morally wrong to let a preacher use a seriously powerful platform (such as TV) to promote their own ego.
I have turned away from the church several times in the past due to people preaching ego-based messages. Misery drove me back, thank God! If PR (or solome of that ilk) was what I found when I needed a solution, then I may very well have just shot myself.
Sounds like there are a bunch of folks who are getting it right, and calmly calling BS on this, and hopefully something good will come of it.
Certain shows should come with a disclaimer. A PG rating or something. If he was in fact poking fun at his targets, I would call that irresponsible preaching in that forum. The potential for mortal damage is too grat for this to go unchecked.
Let him retire gracefully, and let’s move on. Get some good Bible in its place. Perhaps he could endow it, and make it somehow right.
Thank you!
Pat Robertson is an easy target for criticism. Simply demonstrating that his comments about adoptions are unbiblical would have been sufficient.
Thank you! As a teacher of children with disabilities I can’t thank you enough for standing up against this unscriptural world view!
hmm, I’m thinking of all the natural children of hopeful parents, who have turned out to be ‘weird’ or dangerous (think Columbine) or different…..
Anthony,
Pat says the Almighty Lord speaks to him. And he prophesies things that never come to pass.
This man is a phoney. He also does love having lots of money. He has hundreds of millions of dollars he has made as a preacher of the gospel, his gospel.
He really is simply a man, who needs to repent and forskae his false teachings.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lV1JodANwgI&feature=c-shelf-119
@donsands,
I assume you were replying to me.
Thank you for providing the link. I watched it, and do not understand why you linked it in an attempt to support what you wrote. Those comments were not made in 2009 (regarding things to happen by 2011). The comments were made in 2011 for the years 2012 - 2013. They are prescient, and right on point.
Regarding the Lord speaking to Him…all I can address is that which I know. Years ago, he abruptly stopped a visitor tour that he was leading through the CBN facility, and stated that the Lord told him there was someone in the group who had a life-long issue with unforgiveness and bitterness against his earthly father, and that they were to pray…right then. They did, and my own father was supernaturally enabled to forgive his dad in that moment.
I was watching CBN one time, and precancerous lesions were healed in the left lymph glands of my neck; immediately, and simultaneous to Pat’s son, Gordon, calling out the disease.
Many people have diverse gifts of God. I would be hesitant to judge whether they are real. Instead, judge yourself; and determine whether you exhibit a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof.
Mr. Moore, whose words are the devil able to do more harm with, yours or Pat’s?
Please, thoughtfully and prayerfully consider this question. You said that his words were of the devil, but I don’t see it that way. Even by your own statement in the previous paragraph, Pat Robertson has been saying crazy, idiotic things like this for decades! He has said more, on camera, to discredit himself than any demon could accomplish. But let’s all consider how Satan uses the public castigations of any evangelical preacher, by more credible Christians, to tear down the missions and ministries that are doing great things in the name of Jesus.
After all, there are relatively few people who listen to or who put much stock in what Pat says, anyway. In fact, it isn’t until someone more popular and more credible, like yourself, gives him a lashing, that he gets huge national, even international, attention. And, though I agree with very few of the man’s opinions, were they really hateful or do much harm to the Kingdom of Heaven? In contrast, though, I can see where Satan is able to use your words to move thousands of people to withdraw support from all of the missions and ministries supported by Pat Robertson and the 700 Club, including, ironically, international adoption groups!
I know your intentions were to stand up for the Truth of the Word of God, and to boldly declare the difference between following the loving, righteous teachings of Jesus and the hateful, distracting misleadings of religion. My heart is filled with this same desire. I pray, though, that we, the true disciples, give more thought to why Jesus asked us to be so hesitant in our judgment of others - because we are terrible at it!
@Matt Johnson, AMEN!!!
maybe robertson is adopted…
Shame on him! We were born into a sinful world and by the grace of God he chose us to be His children. Sounds like a form of adoption to me. I have given a child up for adoption to a wonderful couple who now have been able to have kids of their own. Never do I wish I didn’t do it. God told me to. I love him to death, and that’s why I did it. I get so angry when people tell me that was wrong or that adoption is.
We are all adopted. What a fool he has become.
We had 3 kids and then adopted a son from India. Great addition to the family and a wonderful way to understand Jesus has “adopted” us.
I’ve long felt Pat Robertson need to simply shut up.
Let us remember another adoption story from the bible, Moses.
He was adopted by a Mother and was given full access to the kingdom.
The comment was deplorable by Pat R. He has needed to step down for some time.
The kingdom of God looks a whole lot more like the the diversity of color and culture in the United Nations than anything on the 700 Club…
Good grief, folks. How hard is it to simply recognize that Pat Robertson is an idiot, and LET. IT. GO?
He was old news by 1990. Why on earth is anybody paying the slightest attention to the man anymore? Why?!??
He’s not your problem.
Wow, I am completely dumbfounded by the remarks of Mr. Robertson. Having worked with abused and neglected children for over 20 years, being an adopted father of 2 internationally adopted children and having been through a divorce and remarriage I see no correlation to his comments and reality. It is really sad to see such a public figure have such a distorted perspective about adoption particularly when it is a Biblical mandate to take care of orphans. Yes, we do not know how adopted kids will turn out because in many cases we do not know their history or family background, but we also do not know how parents’ biological children will turn out either. May God’s grace and mercy rain down on you even though it is undeserving like the rest of us.
Wow. Does Pat Robertson really want to get into a debate about people who grow up weird?
OK Ben Jennings, Sharon Dingle and Even Michael Smith…we obviously didn’t see the same video because there was ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TONGUE AND CHEEK about what Pat Robertson said. I saw his face watched his body language and there was nothing that said “HaHa” about his comments. This is not not a funny topic and he should have known that. He is not a comedian and should leave the comedy to the comedy professional. All the things he brought up about not knowing what you get when adopted a child. Do you know what your getting when you have a child biologically? He talked about helping orphans all over the world and that they love orphans but that doesn’t mean you bring them into your home. WTF? Yea I said it…WTF. Really Pat? True religion taking care of widows and orphans…just keep them outside and leave some food and water by the door. Shame on Pat and shame on all you people who are n ot willing to pull pat to the side and tell him this is NOT acceptable…it is not good…IT IS NOT GOD. My church is packed with children who have been internationally adopted and nationally adopted. Go and show them and their parents this clip and see who’s chuckling along with Pat.
Pat Robertson needs to retire from CBN. He is no longer in
full control of his facilities and is making inane and crass comments that do not reflect the heart of Jesus the Christ.
For me, Pat Robertson is a non-entity. I stopped listening to his gibberish when his so called prophecies started to fail and fall like overripe fruit.
Pat Robertson is a false prophet and is a very poor communicator of Biblical truths. It is regretable that too many people listen to his off the cuff opinions and treat them as if God spoke to this man.
Pat needs to be firmly confronted whenever he brings forth a lot of gibberish and tries to pass it off as the Holy Spirit or he being under an anointing. Saints, test all things.
@Lafe Tolliver, I agree with you all the way!
I think this article is shameful and that as “the body of Christ” we do not need to be publicly tearing one another down! Pat Robertson is getting old, and his words may not always come out right. He may not even always be right. We are called to look after the widows and the orphans (which he had done) but we are also told to honor our elders, not ridicule and bash them openly. With all the good that Pat Robertson has done for the Kingdom, I would be scared to have to answer to God for writing something like this, speaking against a brother and saying his words are “of the devil.” It is so sad to me the way the “body of Christ” is self destructing from within. We are our own worst enemies! Very sad….
Wasn’t Moses found floating in a basket in the Nile River when Pharaoh’s daughter found him? Didn’t she bring him into her home and raise him as her own? Then that ungrateful brat had the nerve to go and be used of God and actually go against all that he was raised to be. He shamed his family and rose up against them in favor of the people who set him afloat (because his adopted family were actually killing little children). I am so grateful that pat Robertson was not taking a bath in the NIle that day.
For what it it worth here is the response from Pat Robertson to my email expressing my outrage at his comments on adoption.
David,
Today, on live television, I misstated my heartfelt dedication and commitment to helping orphans. For decades, I have supported adoption, and have helped tens of thousands of children worldwide.
I wanted to say, but it didn’t come out the way I intended, that adoption is not for everyone.
The mother of three adopted children, who wrote in about her boyfriend’s issue with her children, did a wonderful, unselfish act to adopt and I respect her immensely. Yet, adoption might not be a fit for her boyfriend. If that is the case, she needs to find someone who better shares her passion for adoption.
Adoptive parents are taking on enormous responsibility, both emotionally and financially. Quite frankly, they need as much disclosure as possible about the child’s background and health to assure the best fit and be prepared.
In answering the letter writer, this is what I meant to say. If any doubt remains, I ask you to please look at what I’ve done over the years to help orphans.
Thank you for writing, I remain.
Yours in Christ,
Pat Robertson
For quite a few years now I recognized something different in Pat Robertson and what I recognized was all too familiar to me. He is definitetly exhibiting many signs of dementia and unfortunately, like I had to do with my father and many others have had to do with their parents, you have to “take away the car keys”! Dying or getting older with dignity requires that those who love him, protect him. His reputation will be destroyed if he is allowed to continue and there is no dignity in that! Let people remember him for the good he has done and let him decline in private. I will be praying for him and so should all other Christians. Our bodies and minds are all subject to this same deterioration, therefore, we should encourage all people to do the right thing to protect both Pat Robertson’s dignity and unsaved people from hearing the wrong statements.
Thank you so much for this. I am a strong believer in Christ but in the last few years I have become so disillusioned by the “church” and those who claim to know what God/Christ want for this country/ world but do so with in such an un-Christ-like way. I have often felt that the most vocal people proclaiming to be Christan have turned off so many to the word of God. Christians as a whole are not seen for any positive attributes anymore but are now seen for the ongoing hypocritical commentary coming from the evangelicals, politicians and talking heads that supposedly represent Christ; Christians are seen as “crazy hateful people”. In reading Revelations I used to wonder how the future population of the world could go through events that the book refers to and still turn their backs on God. I now think I know why - the message of God has been hijacked by politicians and evangelist the likes of Pat Robertson to the point that people feel they are better off without the God the Christianity professes. I know people who see the inauthentic nature of these people and are completely closed off to Christ. The message of love and salvation has been twisted to obtain votes, money and power and it has been so detrimental to the potential salvation of so many people. Thank you for putting to words what I have felt and been so frustrated about for a long time - Pat Robertson, the politicians and the rest of the talking heads of his ilk in this world do not represent Jesus.
One of the five best articles I’ve ever read. Thanks for this.
Thank you for your thoughtful post. To those who have been given much, much is expected. That probably includes anyone with an ipad or computer internet connection. Pierce our hearts, God, for the helpless
Could not have said it better. Thank you, thank you, thank you…
As a result of our adoption, my wife and I have met and spoken with dozens of adults who were fostered or adopted as children. Many of them rescued from terrible situations. Not one of them was “weird”. Every one of them has thanked my wife and I for adopting. Many of them felt willing to share something of their own story which they shared with no one else publicly. I’m disgusted with Robertson for his statements. For me, as a father who deeply loves his biological children, I can tell you that I don’t think I fully understood love until we adopted. We love all of our kids, but our adopted kids have completed our family in a miraculous way. We have seen more of the heart of God and taken hold of more of the meaning of the Gospel with our adopted children than ever before.
Here! Here! Well said, Mike! Your words sum up my feelings and reaction to Pat Robertson’s comments exactly.
Besides his penchant for speaking first and thinking later, I have serious concerns about his theology and his endorsement, all too often, of Word of Faith preachers.
Dear Russell Moore,
This woman wanted to know why men lost interest in her after she revealed the fact that her children were adopted from various parts of the world. The most honest answer would simply to have to have told her is because there is a dating market, and its a tight one for older women with children. She too has a valuation system; otherwise she could find a man at a nearby tavern or brothel willing to accept her particular situation. But just as she esteems herself to have higher dating value than them, the men she chases do likewise to her. I’m willing to bet on some level she already knows this.
Sincerely,
Daniel Peters.
So thankful for you and your viewpoint!! Well written and to the point. Thankful for Christ’s death on the cross and his love for all, no matter who we are, where we were born, or what our situation is.
I think adoption, caring for orphans, etc., is good, so don’t get off on me about that.
But, from what I understand, aren’t Pat’s comments about whether a man would want to marry someone who has adopted foreign children? I don’t think it is unreasonable at all for a man to say that he is not comfortable marrying someone who has adopted children. Marriage someone is his choice and he is not comfortable being with someone who has adopted foreign kids. That doesn’t mean he hates adoption, orphans, etc., It just means he isn’t comfortable with that situation. Why would a woman who has adopted foreign children want to marry someone who is at all hesitant about taking on those kids anyway?
I don’t think adoption is for everyone and I don’t think it is fair to belittle people who are not comfortable with adopting a foreign child, or marrying a woman who has adopted foreign children.
I agree Pat is a nutjob, but it is not crazy to not want to adopt.
Weird. I would tel her because she put the cart before the horse so she attracts ungodly men. Why does she have adopted children without being married? Why is she out “dating”? Where is she finding this dating pool? If she truly wants a godly man that has a heart for orphans then she should quit shopping for a man and let God put one in her path. The fact that she doesn’t know that these men have that kind of character means that she is dating strangers. That is what you get when you date strange men - dogs.
Perhaps Pat is still in his position because his true purpose is to challenge believers in how they respond to an elderly man that is not on his game anymore. Do we make excuses for him? Argue his point because of a life time of loyalty? Or even make the claim that he meant it as a joke when clearly he did not. The look at the other person’s face when he is saying shows that he wasn’t joking. We have this illusion of elderly men being some wise old guy sitting on a mountain. When in reality their hearts are not pumping enough blood to their brains anymore. Kind of scary when you think how long we let people stay in office in this country.
The sad part is that he thinks that caring for orphans and widows is sending people and money to a foreign country and giving them humanitarian aid. Caring for orphans and widows is caring for them IN their distress, that means investment.
I wept as I read this. My wife and I recently adopted a little boy, who in fact has a section of his brain missing, but you better believe that Christ Jesus has worked through this little guy to help his daddy (me) be more like Jesus and has brought so much joy to our family! Why would someone say something like Pat Robertson did here? Is he reading the same Bible I do? James 1:27 states, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” ESV.
I desire to obey Jesus and His Word so I visit orphans by adopting them and caring for them -as my “own” children - because my son is “my son” regardless if he came from my loins or not - Christ gave him to my wife and I as a gift, just as he does children who are born and raised by their biological parents. I hope and pray the gospel can penetrate Pat’s sinful heart - as it did mine and help him understand that this Christian life is not about power, riches and being comfortable, but about sharing Christ through sufferings and blessings, riches or poverty and not focusing on yourself, but others for Christ sake and the advancement of the gospel.
Oh and by the way, the doctors said our son would likely be blind because of his missing Cavum Septum (section of his brain), but he sees just fine - PRAISE the LORD! - For his name is: Gabriel Josiah, which means “Strong man of God, the LORD heals” - and we often sing to him “Jesus loves the little children ALL of the children of the world” - I can’t think of a better way to fulfill the Great Commission - my wife and I have transplanted the mission field straight into our home!!
Hi Dr. Moore,
My name is Kayla Nichols and I am currently a student in college. Someone pointed out your book to me “Adopted for Life”. I started reading a little bit of it and love your message. I recently released an original tracked called “Orphaned One” that speaks a message very similar to your book. The Lord has given me a strong heart and desire to see physically orphaned as well as spiritually orphaned children come to know the Father. It would be a blessing to have you listen to my song and give me your feedback!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvz8Cuk-cgY
ALL profits I make off my music are going to provide and education to kids at an orphanage I personally visited in Hyderabad, India.
Kayla Nichols
songsfororphans.com
@knicholsmusic
facebook.com/kaylanicholsmusic
kaylanicholsmusic2011@gmail.com