Christians, Let’s Honor the President

— Wednesday, November 7th, 2012 —

The American people have decided that Barack Obama should have a second term. And, behind them, in the mystery of providence, God has decided that Barack Obama would be re-elected. So how should Christians respond to our once and future President?

Many of us have some disagreements with the President. As a conservative Christian, I believe unborn children have certain inalienable rights, including the right to life, and I wish President Obama would work to protect them. I believe freedom of conscience is the preeminent right in a civil society, and the Administration’s incursions on religious liberty are troubling. I don’t plan to back down one bit on these matters, even as our forefathers Isaac Backus and John Leland relentlessly stood up to the founding generation of leaders on behalf of religious freedom and human dignity.

We are going to disagree with the President on some (important) things; there will be other areas where we can work with the President. But whether in agreement or disagreement, we can honor. Honor doesn’t mean blanket endorsement.

I am always amazed by those Christians who will dispute the command to honor, arguing that “kings” in our system are the people, and therefore we’re called to honor the Constitution but not elected officials. But the Scripture doesn’t command honor simply for the ultimate authority (which is, of course, ultimately God, in any case). Humanly speaking, the ultimate political authority in the New Testament context was the Emperor. And yet, the Apostle Peter specifically calls the people of Christ not only to show submission to the emperor “as supreme” but also to “governors” (1 Pet. 2:13-14). The Apostle Paul calls on the churches to pray and to show thanksgiving for “kings” (plural) and for “all who are in high positions” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).

Paul imitated this when he showed due respect to the governor Felix, referring to him with the honorific title “his Excellency, the governor” (Acts 23:26), even as he appealed his way up through the political process of the Roman Empire of his time. Paul showed thanksgiving for Felix, despite his part in a system with which Paul disagreed at some important points, for his “reforms” for the common good.

Behind that is a more general command to “honor everyone” (1 Pet. 2:17), to pray for “all people” (1 Tim. 2:1). We are to not only pay our taxes but give “respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed” (Rom. 13:7).

Christians, above all people, should pray for and show respect for our President and all of our elected officials. After all, unlike those who see politics as ultimate, we recognize that our political structures are important, but temporal, before an inbreaking kingdom of Christ. We don’t then need to be fomented into the kind of faux outrage that passes for much of contemporary political discourse. And, unlike those who see history as impersonal or capricious, we see behind everything a God who is sovereign over his universe.

So let’s pray for President Obama. Let’s not give ourselves to terms of disrespect, or every crazy conspiracy theory that floats across the Internet.

That doesn’t mean slavish obedience. In a democratic republic, the President and the Congress govern by the consent of the governed. We appeal to our elected officials, and lobby them for the common good, expressing disagreement when we must. But we do this, as Paul does before Felix and Agrippa, with respect and honor, even as he seeks to persuade them of the need for religious liberty and as he preaches “righteousness and self-control and the coming judgment” (Acts 24:25).

However we voted in the election, let’s pray for God to bless our President. We can pray for him to be granted wisdom and health. We can pray that God would prosper his good ideas, and change his mind on his bad ideas. Moreover, we can teach our children to respect our President, starting with referring to him as “President Obama” or “Our President,” not as “Obama” or “the guy our parents voted against” or what have you.

There’s a time to vote. There’s a time to campaign. And there’s a time to petition. But, through it all, let’s be the people who, even as we speak with conviction, are marked by kindness and respect. When we have to differ with President Obama, let’s do that, with backbone. But let’s make sure we do all this with honor, with respect, with prayer, and, most of all, with love.

Let’s render unto Caesar, as free people with natural rights. Because we know as believers that we will eternally say “Jesus is Lord,” we can as citizens temporally say, “Hail to the chief.”

(Image Credit)

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215 Responses to “Christians, Let’s Honor the President”

Matt Capps November 7th, 2012 at 12:23 am
Balanced. Evenhanded. And us we Southern Baptists say, good word.

Matt Capps in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:23 am
@Matt Capps, as*

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:40 am
Muddle-headed. Misguided. Misleading. IMO, anyway.

We, as the Church, need to put to bed this milk-and-water term “disagree.” Would any of us say that we “disagree” with Hitler? Of course not. We would say he was evil, his ideas were monstrous, and he caused the death of millions of innocent people. Should we not view President Obama in the same way? Really, how is he any different?

As for honoring or respecting Obama, a close examination of the historical context surrounding Peter’s telling Christians to “honor the King” reveals that he probably had something different in mind than what we would think of now. He was telling Christians to set themselves apart from the ever-riotous, rebelling Jews and be, truly, a religion of peace. He was telling them to be squeaky-clean, to keep the laws, to pay taxes, and not to rise up in armed revolt against the governing powers of the day (Rome). Of course, this didn’t stop them from being persecuted, but one gets the sense that Peter hoped they might be left alone if they took the high road.

Today, armed rebellion isn’t on the table. Only loonies view it as a live option. And all normal conservatives pay taxes. And we also obey the laws unless we are forced to go against our consciences, in which case civil disobedience is called for. But we’re not biblically required to speak NICELY of a ruling authority, regardless of whether or not he’s a monster. In fact, the Bible shows OT prophets repeatedly using harsh language against certain evil kings.

If we lose the ability to recognize and call out naked evil when we see it, we will become morally numb. We should never stop being shocked by it.

RioSam in reply November 7th, 2012 at 1:21 am
@Matt Capps, NOT good word! Honor this fraud? NEVER! He does not honor ‘we the people’ and surely not our country!!

Lois in reply November 7th, 2012 at 10:25 am
@yankeegospelgirl, @RioSam -

What about when Paul calls the church to be submissive to rulers and authorities in Titus 3? He instructs Titus to remind the church to do this at the time Nero was emperor of Rome. Nero was known for having captured Christians burned in his garden at night for a source of light, and yet Paul still writes this in his letter. If the church back then was called to submit to a man as evil as Emperor Nero, it should cause us to think twice about how we ought to think about current president.

Rebecca C in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:15 pm
@yankeegospelgirl - Did President Obama ruthlessly and systematically have over six million people slaughtered because he didn’t like them? How dare you compare him to Hitler! It’s ignorant, offensive, and just plain untrue.

Samuel Smith in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
@Lois: Peter and Paul were honoring Nero during what his adviser Seneca called the quinquinnium, or five good years. Once he went insane and starting using people as torches, John wrote a book called the Unveiling of Jesus Christ in which Nero was depicted as “the Beast.” 666 or 616 both work exceedingly well as “Nero Caesar,” and there is little evidence to show that Domitian’s reign inspired the kind of sheer terror among Christians that Nero’s did. In fact, the beast whose wound who had healed probably reflected the fear among Christians that Domitian was Nero revived. Peter couldn’t have written the thing in 1 Peter during Nero’s reign of terror: he was dead as a result of it by then. 1 Peter addresses a kind of localized social ostracism, along with possible torture used to extract information, as recorded in Pliny the Younger’s letter to Trajan about 50 years later, not institutionalized wholesale slaughter. Paul died in the pogrom at Rome, too, so his testimony about Nero probably didn’t take into account a mad, bloodthirsty tyrant murdering his own people. A bit of history will clarify your biblical interpretation.

Besides, by your logic, Bonhoeffer was wrong to try to kill Hitler. If the command to honor leaders at all costs is absolute, then even the Holocaust does not justify Christians standing against a “king.” By that same logic, using the Pastoral Letters, Luther was wrong to stand against his “bishop.” Sorry. I will not agree. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me.

Kathy Law in reply November 7th, 2012 at 1:26 pm
@Matt Capps,

yankee gospel girl and RioSam: sigh.

Russell: Thank you for your wise words.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:36 pm
Hi Rebecca. You appear to be very sadly misguided. I will make one, and only one attempt to clarify where I stand (which is probably a waste of time anyway).

The answer to your question, bluntly, is yeah, pretty much. Obama has celebrated abortion rights, he has dropped the line that he even wants them to be rare anymore, he has rushed your tax dollars and mine to Planned Parenthood during a time of economic crisis, he refers to babies as “punishment” on girls who get pregnant out of wedlock, and he fought to reduce the chance that a survivor of a botched abortion would have to receive medical care. He referred matter-of-factly to a baby’s coming out “limp and dead” after an abortion, with no hint of compunction or indication that he regarded this as a monstrous choice of words.

The abortion holocaust has actually now surpassed the Jewish holocaust. A baby dies about every 90 seconds. Moreover, poor minority women are particularly affected as a demographic by manipulative people who just want their money.

So actually, Rebecca, it is you who are trying to ignore reality. Get the facts together and then state your opinion. Until then, the rest of us will continue fighting against the war on innocent life that, according to you, doesn’t exist.

Oh by the way, it’s not just abortion that’s at stake here. You should also do a little research on the right to life for the disabled and the elderly in hospice care. For more information, I recommend the data compiled by Wesley J. Smith, who isn’t even a Christian yet has a greater sense of the culture of death than you do.

Chris Kolker in reply November 7th, 2012 at 3:54 pm
@Matt Capps, I don’t think Moore is saying that we should not speak out against the wrong policies of the President. In fact, he’s saying the opposite. He says we should speak out and lobby and do whatever we can to change things. What he is saying is that we should be respectful of him. When we speak to our children and others we don’t speak disrespectfully of his office. I have been telling my children that the President’s ways are evil, but it should be done in respect to the office, even if the person in that office is not worthy of it. If we speak disrespectfully of the person in the office, we give too much credence to the person and put emphasis upon him as if he has power over us. Our fight is against the evil principles, not the evil doer (that is God’s business). Even Michael did not speak against Satan - he said, the Lord rebuke you. Regarding Hitler, if we were in that situation we could be telling our children that what is happening is evil and that Hitler is evil. But being angry and putting the attention on the person, takes the focus off the real enemy. Also, regarding Hitler: one person posting was offended at your comparison of Hitler with the President. She asked if the President systematically slaughtered millions. I would say that our nation and the democratic party AND the President are all guilty of more than Hitler. They have and they CONTINUE to slaughter millions of innocent babies every year! I think we should speak out against the wickedness of this President and his party. We should speak out against how he won by appealing to the baser element of society and how he exploited people’s selfish ambitions. Even Jesus, when speaking about Herod referred to him as a “Fox”.

Dave Geenens in reply November 9th, 2012 at 8:44 am
@Matt Capps, It is appropriate to ‘honor the absent’, so no one should speak differently about President Obama in his absence, than we might if we joined us in our home for dinner. All of us would feel honored and would show nothing but respect for his presence and position. Render to Caeser what is Caesar’s.

On the other hand, sometimes authority must be challenged and protested, much like Jesus did to the money-changers on the Temple grounds. More luke-warm, ‘why can’t we just get along,’ tolerance of that which is intolerable is what has led the U.S. to the brink of destruction.

Those in the Church must speak and act on what they know is right. Do it with respect, but do it loud, do it often, and pray for those in power to listen to God. You do realize that some states just legalized marijuana and same sex marriage, don’t you? Our tolerance is fueling the moral death of America. We will answer for this.

Apostle Stephen Paul Delsol in reply November 10th, 2012 at 1:19 pm
I enjoy reading Russell Moore’s article. I felt its warmth and genuineness, and just as important, it is a well craftedand intellectually balanced article. We need to bring back saneness and commonsense to Christian conservative conversations with regards to President Barack Obama.

This election result was an act of God! It showed God as a holy and loving mathematician. In the natural, it is impossible for a nation, where 72% of the population is white, and where only 39% voted for President Obama, yet he won the election, with (332) electoral votes. On the other hand, his opponent, Mitt Romney with over 60% of the white vote, could only manage (206) electoral votes! George Bush Sr. received (426) electoral votes with the same percentage of white votes against Governor Dukakis in 1988 presidential elections.

I campaigned vigorously for President Obama, and I am delighted that he won. On the doorsteps, I met people of different racial, ethnic, and social class backgrounds, They all shared one thing in common - they love President Obama. I know that God loves President Obama. As a Christian, let us be imitators of God, and love those who God loves. We must love ALL human being, and especially God’s appointed - President Barack Obama.

Evangelicals went on a 40 Day Prayer for God’s perfect will to be done in terms of the election results. God heard the prayers, and He has spoken! He has re-elected Barack Obama as President of the United States of America. He has elected the Republicans to have control over the House of Representatives, and the Democrats to have control over the Senate!

Let us accept the results of the election, because they are in line with the perfect will of God. Let us respect and pray for President Obama and all elected members! That’s the Christian thing to do.

I have been praying diligently for President Obama for the past three years. During one of my prayers, I heard the Holy Spirit say:-

“God is very concerned about the poor in America.”
and
“I definitely do not want a Mormon in the White House.”

APOSTLE STEPHEN PAUL DELSOL
AGAPE LOVE OUTREACH MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL

Bob Bonta in reply November 10th, 2012 at 7:54 pm
@APOSTLE STEPHEN PAUL DELSOL of
AGAPE LOVE OUTREACH MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL

I would agree with you (on a limited point) that God loves Barak Obama … as he loves everyone of His creation - after all, Christ did indeed die for all ~ Jn 3:16 ~ but as for Barak Obama as our President, I wouldn’t be so bold as to say that God’s appointment to the position be such a positive thing for him. God raises and lowers kings and authorities - He has done that throughout history - it is true … Babylonian, Persian, Syrian … all those kings were given the “green light” to move against His people for an express purpose and in specific times … but make no mistake, the hearts of those kings were at enmity with God and they ultimately paid dearly for the evil they held in their hearts and the evil they perpetrated on either their own people or those whom they conquered. Does Barak Obama fit in that category? Look at the evidence … where does he stand on the subject of sanctity of life? Does he speak for the unborn who are being slaughtered by the millions each year? No, he does not. Does he stand on God’s side (not man’s side) on the subject of marriage and family? In other words, does he stand for the standards laid out in His Word (The Bible - Holy Scripture) with regard to homosexuality? No, he does not. While I will pray for our President and his administration that they will be the leaders to bring our country back in a synchronous step with our Creator, President Obama has simply perpetuated the sinful and abominable path on which our country began tredding in the early ’70s with the decision of Roe v. Wade. President Obama may by the Divinely ordained man for our country at the moment - let’s pray also that the divine purpose he fulfills is not for the punishment inflicted by a Holy and Righteous God.

With respect to all readers, you, and our current President!

RSB

Mary Gilliam in reply November 10th, 2012 at 8:26 pm
@Matt Capps, I think the following, from the President Prayer Team, of which I am a member, is a very spiritually mature approach and it also DOES NOT preclude our speaking out against SIN in leaders and/or calling them out for their SIN: Desperate Cry Out for America!

Dear Prayer Team,

God’s will can often seem an elusive thing. Or is it?

The morning after Election Day, many of us were honestly wondering, “Is this really God’s will?” Whether it was the outcome of the presidential election, or the races in Congress, or state and local elections for political offices and propositions, it was easy to question if God saw – or even cared – about any of it.

So let me remind you of a powerful reality. The course of your life over the next four years will be determined by the Lord, not the election. As Jim Ray wrote in our November 7 Vantage Point devotional: “You are not an insignificant pawn subject to the whims of a politician, but a powerful servant subject to the will of God.”

Yet the other powerful truth to remember is this: God’s command to us from I Timothy 2:1-2 remains valid today and every day. When Paul wrote that verse, the recognized leader of the world was the Emperor Nero, who was not exactly a friend of Christians. Yet Paul exhorted believers then – and today – to pray for all who are in authority over us. Why? Because that IS God’s will. Even when we don’t like the leaders or their decisions; even when we disagree with the declining state of morality in American society; even when we are unhappy…
We are to pray because that is God’s will for us, and because
He remains in full control over the nation and its future.

Let’s not back down now. Let’s continue our desperate cry for America! Lord, give us another chance. We are here, for such a time as this, as events lead us toward biblical end-times in which we can pray for and witness God’s supreme purposes as they are played out, to His glory!

You can count on your Prayer Team to continue to carefully watch all the news and events and bring you prayer briefings and alerts as needed.

Now more than ever, we need the resolve and strength of God’s people to fervently pray. We hope America can count on you.

Jim Bolthouse

Executive Director

Presidential Prayer Team

Mary Gilliam in reply November 11th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
@Matt Capps, Spiritual malpractice. The statement that Paul addressed the Emperor Felix as “most excellent Felix” did not, in fact, come from Paul. It came from Tertullus, the Jewish paid lawyer who had been sent to accuse Paul falsely and build the false case against him in front of Felix.

See the passage in Acts: 24 Five days later the high priest Ananias went down to Caesarea with some of the elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, and they brought their charges against Paul before the governor.

2 When Paul was called in, Tertullus presented his case before Felix: “We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation. 3 Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude. 4 But in order not to weary you further, I would request that you be kind enough to hear us briefly.

5 “We have found this man to be a troublemaker, stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the Nazarene sect 6 and even tried to desecrate the temple; so we seized him. [7] [a] 8 By examining him yourself you will be able to learn the truth about all these charges we are bringing against him.”

9 The other Jews joined in the accusation, asserting that these things were true.

Thomas Haj in reply November 26th, 2012 at 10:22 pm
I believe around six million died under this president’s abortion.
On the topic of allegiance to Caesar:
Jesus himself stated to give under God what belongs to God. Being God himself, is his power limited by the Caesars of today or, as The Word says ” The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof”.
Wise people take notice.
Thomas Thornton November 7th, 2012 at 12:37 am
Your thoughtful and scriptural response makes me proud to be a Southern Baptist and proud of my alma mater, SBTS. Well said, and my prayer also.
ForeBarcaJeep November 7th, 2012 at 12:44 am
The Republican Party is too white. A visit to any of Southern California’s mega churches will reveal the multitude of peoples hailing from all parts of the world praising the Lord under one roof. In contrast, all of the Republican conventions have seemingly been representatives of only Western Europe. In addition, the Republicans might been pro-life and pro-hetrosexual marriage, but have not extended life to this nation’s illegal immigrants whom, in many instances, have been denied a chance to prosperity and justice if only because their children are American. In addition, too much of the Republican vitriol has been anchored in conspiracy theories against President Obama. Very few of my brothers have seen the Commander in Chief fit to be a receptacle of their prayers. I agree with Dr.Moore. Let us pray without ceasing for President Obama. Our God reigns whether the Democrats or Republicans legislate as we see fit.

Joel Appenzeller in reply November 7th, 2012 at 10:35 am
@ForeBarcaJeep, The unfortunate thing about your comment is how deceived it is. I realize it is impossible to change your mind about the real insignificance of the color of ones skin. The ideas of a party are what matter, not the demographics of its population.

I also realize that I can’t get you to recognize that people coming here need to follow rules even as those moving from here do. The “illegal immigrant” had a life in their own country. Those of us who actually believe in respecting our nations sovereignty and borders simply want them to respect them as well even as we are forced to do so when going to Mexico, for instance.

I will pray for Mr. Obama’s salvation.

Barrie Wright in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:22 pm
@ForeBarcaJeep, You obviously ignored the fine Latino and black speakers at the GOP Convention, Herman Cain who ran for president, the black republicans in Congress and in high office like Condy Rice and others. The black, single women and the latino minorities have been brainwashed that it was Democrats who liberate them, a clever move, but a lie. Obama gave them only higher unemployment. Do Californian mega-churches all vote Democratic Party? Why?

ForeBarcaJeep in reply November 7th, 2012 at 5:55 pm
@JoelAppennZeller

I agree with you that the illegal immigrants have broken the law. Infact, I was incredibly blessed to have US citizenship via birth, not so my parents. So, I am all to aware of the precious prize of US citizenship. Indeed, I just cannot bring my parents over-there is a process to go through, a frustrating but necessary process of customs and immigration. However, I also live and work with many people who are illegals. Many of them came here as children, and cannot go back to Mexico since, as the drug wars have proven, there is nothing to go back to. Many of these have forsworn to serve the Lord in the United States. I did not believe that I would say this a few years ago, but God has allowed me to see their plight on account of compassion. These are my brothers and sisters who believe in the right of the foetus to life. Moreover, from a practical view point, the Republicans will only benefit if they court the minorities who are conservative: Fillipinos, Vietnamese, and Latinos. Many Whites are no longer Christian, and abhor the name itself. In addition, the immigration is a complex issue. Would you deport the illegal parents of a 14 year old boy who happens to be American? If we conservatives are a prolife culture, should we participate in the dismantling of families so that the laws of the land may be upheld?

Mary Gilliam in reply November 10th, 2012 at 8:35 pm
@ForeBarcaJeep, TOTALLY WRONG and RACIST!

Christian Grandma in reply November 16th, 2012 at 9:20 am
@ForeBarcaJeep,
When people do wrong, the consequences become complicated. This nation has been wrong to fail to address the problem of illegal immigration by securing our southern border. Any nation in its right mind secures its borders. Ours for some reason fails to see the need.

The real reason so many minorities vote Democrat is because they are bribed with promises of more and more welfare. And also because Democrats are successful in promoting lies such as that conservatives are rich and greedy and want to do harm to women and want to put blacks in chains. It is difficult to win against a lying machine like that.
yankeegospelgirl November 7th, 2012 at 1:09 am
Incidentally, even our own Denny Burk referred to Obama’s Roe v. Wade anniversary remarks as “asinine,” but I suppose you would tsk tsk even that as not being “respectful” enough.

Dr. Moore, you seemed all too willing to write blog post after blog post about Pat Robertson and say that his words were “of the devil.” You spoke about the great lengths to which you had to go to control your anger and calm down the rage you felt. I don’t see a similar struggle when you speak of Obama, even though he has done and will do far more horrific damage than Robertson, callow and shallow though he is, will ever do. Why aren’t you willing to come out and say in so many words that numerous Obama policies are “of the devil”? Or did I miss it? In all honesty, I would like to see it if I did.

Jordan Dorsett in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:53 pm
@yankeegospelgirl,

Pat Robertson is a man who on a national stage claims the role of teacher to Christians. In front of millions of people (and millions more once his garbage is shared online) he grievously misrepresents Christ, Christians, and the regenerate heart. In many ways, his and Dr. Moore’s roles and level influence are comparable. It is on the grounds of common (professed) faith and roles as teacher that Dr. Moore rightly rebukes and condemns Robertson’s babble.
President Obama, on the other hand, is outside the fold, so to speak. Though he claims the Christian faith, he does not presume to teach Biblical truths (or know them, for that matter).
Just as often as we see commands to honor, pray for, etc. our leaders, we see false prophets being rebuked and wolves cast out. This is the distinction between the “teacher” Pat Robertson and President Obama.

Jordan Dorsett in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:55 pm
@yankeegospelgirl,

**just as often in Scripture

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 3:45 pm
Jordan, while I agree that since Robertson holds an influential post among Christians, Moore’s rebukes made sense, I’m not agreeing that just because Obama isn’t a Christian we don’t put our rebukes of him lower on the priority list. If you want to talk in “kingdom” terms, how many souls will be led to walk down the path of destruction by taking part in the sin of abortion or in perverse sexual actions? Obama and the Democrats are actively working to make these things easier to do, more available, normal and accepted in society today. How will young people and children be affected? The kingdom impact is horrific to contemplate. We will march on, but how many souls less?
Barry Bishop November 7th, 2012 at 1:10 am
Dr. Moore,
what you have written is true. I am grieved tonight, though–not because “my guy” didn’t win but because I see abortion rolling on unabated in our nation. Also in my state it looks like gay marriage and legalized marijuana will pass.
Your article comes too soon for me. Isn’t there a time and place for tears? Certainly God is bigger than America, but it’s hard for me to see the church or the kingdom of God advancing here. Even in our convention, the SBC, it seems that we have the right doctrine but are failing miserably in reaching people with the Gospel.

Donna Henderson in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:32 pm
@Barry Bishop,
Thank you for your heart-felt comments. I don’t disagree with Dr. Moore, but you provided the missing piece for me this morning.

kelvin McRae in reply November 7th, 2012 at 10:39 pm
@Barry Bishop,

What has been overloooked during the election is Pres. Obamas’ views on the nation of Israel, other topioc to discuss
Linda Sekerak November 7th, 2012 at 1:12 am
Godly wisdom. Thank you.
Smart Olufemi November 7th, 2012 at 1:21 am
Thanks Russell for this very encouraging word. Indeed as those with a higher citizenship, we are to do our part and our best. Stand by our convictions no matter who is in charge of making and enforcing the laws.
But above all, we must stand firmly and obey the teachings of our LORD. Even though I had hoped Mitt would win, election is now over and we have our President. Congrats Mr. President!!
Kody Krady November 7th, 2012 at 1:30 am
I just commented on the sentiment of my dear friend who said something in her disappointment. I said, as much as I am disappointed, we cannot dispute the Word of God in Danel 2:21. His thoughts are beyond our comprehension. And we are to pray for our leaders, regardless. I pray Christians will not lose heart and pray for our President. I pray we will continue to cry out to God along 2 Chronices 7:14, Psalm 5. I pray we will have Spiritual Awakening. I feel like an exile…especially after giving up citizenship of my birth country to become a citizen of the country founded on biblical principle…but I pray we can learn from those young Israelites.

Donna Henderson in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:40 pm
@Kody Krady,
Amen. And, God bless you.
Mary Gilliam November 7th, 2012 at 1:38 am
And what about John the Baptist calling Herod to account for his actions????

Anonymous in reply November 8th, 2012 at 10:16 am
@Mary Gilliam,

Herod was a Jew and leader of Israel, and therefore was under the jurisdiction of Jewish law, thus worthy of being held to account as he was. You will not find, though, any Jew holding any outsider to account in similar fashion. For example, the Jews did not call for the Roman Caesars to submit to the law of God. Similarly, though President Obama can be called to account for criminal behavior and policies, ultimately there is no comparison between him and Herod. President Obama is not leading a Christian nation under the jurisdiction of God’s commandments.

1 Corinthians 5:12-13 For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? But those who are outside, God judges.

Mary Gilliam in reply November 10th, 2012 at 2:20 pm
@Mary Gilliam, Since Obama CLAIMS to be a Christian, then it is appropriate to call him to accounts for his policies that OPPOSE the teachings of Jesus and the Word of God.

And incidentally, while we don’t have millions of adult Jews being hauled to the gas chambers, MILLIONS of innocent unborn babies are being and will be hauled to PLANNED PARENTHOOD and slaughtered.

Not supportable from the standpoint of the Word OR LOVE. Where is the LOVE in this practice?

If I fail to dishonor the evil in this man and the many dishonorable people he has around him, I will have to apologize to Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Corrie Ten Boom and the millions of other Christians who have stood up to evil.
Sabrina O'Malone November 7th, 2012 at 1:52 am
Well said Russell. As believers, we have the power to exemplify these positive traits:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” - Galatians 5:22-23

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7

We might even be more effective witnesses for Christ if we allow these characteristics permeate our every interaction with others.
D. Stanley November 7th, 2012 at 2:02 am
Why would Mr. Romney have been any better for Christian Americans anyway? His (and other Republicans’) policies benefit businesses like banks and corporations more than the rights and needs of human beings–needs like health care for the unwell. Jesus would be a lot more concerned with the treatment of the poor in this country than with whether the federal government props up the church.

C Turner in reply November 7th, 2012 at 9:03 pm
@D. Stanley, Thank you, We’d be total fools to seriously think Romney was going to do anything to improve the social and ethical issues we struggle with as a nation. Extremely important as it is, Abortion isn’t the only issue. The voting records clearly show how much the churches are failing in our nation. Deep down we know we can’t legislate morality but instead of refocussing our efforts on bringing Good News to the nation, we are screaming and hurling insults because the confused Mormon guy didn’t win. Finally we are starting to see that the political path doesn’t lead to the kingdom of God so maybe it’s time to put our attention on rethinking our calling and how we will fulfill it. (Like stop the hate talk and find something constructive to do to bring the Good News to our sick society.)

Christian Grandma in reply November 16th, 2012 at 9:26 am
@D. Stanley,
Human beings have healthcare needs, but it is a huge leap in logic to believe that our form of government, our constitution, is intended to provide for people’s healthcare needs. It is not. That is a job for individuals, churches, private organizations, etc. If there is a problem with it, let’s work that out. But don’t give that job to government. As to Republicans benefiting only the rich, that is a Democrat lie. It gets them votes from people apparently such as yourself. Also, no one is asking the federal government to prop up the church. Where did you get such an idea? But when true Christians fail to vote at all, as millions do, and when true Christians misunderstand the issues and believe lies, we aren’t being proper stewards of the blessings of liberty in this nation.
Wayne Woodrum November 7th, 2012 at 2:03 am
Just tough. On the one hand, yes your point is well spoken. Then you think about President Obama signing off on all the pro abortion legislation he can get his hands on and you wonder how accountable you are if you “honor” the man that sanctions that…he views taking a life as more important and right than saving a life (ex. Benghazi). Do you ever wonder if you would write this with Hitler in charge? But all right. Scripture is very clear we are to love and pray. That is the commandment so here is the hope for 4 years of spiritual growth. Thank you for promoting truth over rhetoric and the accompanying encouragement.
David Abott November 7th, 2012 at 2:03 am
Those crazy American Revolutionaries, what were they thinking? Would this also apply to 1933 Germany or 1531 Germany for that matter? Tyrants have been abusing these verses for years while promoting this intellectually bankrupt position. Honor the emperor-as long as he is in line with God, otherwise you don’t. Common sense. You don’t honor an evil man (Just talking in general, not implying Obama is evil) What do you think the Book of Revelation is about? It railed against those in power, so much so it had to be concealed. 666, The number of a man, yeah that’s really honoring someone. Christians should use common sense, do you really think God would have us honor someone who supports abortion? Christian milquetoasts, particularly the Christian male milquetoast phenomenon is a scandal in the church and a problem that really needs to be addressed.

L. Newton in reply November 7th, 2012 at 9:58 am
@David Abott, Does that mean you reject the authority of 1 Peter 2:17 which says to honor the emperor? Or are you under the impression that the Roman emperors were all righteous, upstanding men?

Deovn Curran in reply November 7th, 2012 at 10:15 am
@David Abott, I wonder though if God would want us honoring a man that worships a false God either. I’m not sure that either of these men are deserving of much honor from Christians.

David Abott in reply November 7th, 2012 at 10:22 pm
@David Abott, L newton we can play the one verse Charlie game all day. God gave us a brain, use it. Would you honor Hitler in 1933-1945 Germany? If you say no then your whole argument fails. Do you support what the founding fathers did in opposing the King? If you say yes your previous argument fails. How about a little consistency. If you think God commands us to honor evil then I would respectfully say that we read different Bibles.

Dan Kreider in reply November 8th, 2012 at 12:41 am
@David Abott, just want to make sure I understand your rebuttal. Maybe you can comment on the accuracy of my assessment:

“Stop using the Bible to support your argument. Instead use logic [since the two are obviously mutually exclusive], and imagine hypothetical historical situations.”
The Seeking Disicple November 7th, 2012 at 2:29 am
Amen! I pray that the Church will pray especially for President Obama to be saved. That is the most important thing (1 Timothy 2:1-7).

Kathy Baldock in reply November 7th, 2012 at 11:49 am
@The Seeking Disicple, he is saved. Perhaps you missed this information.

Barrie Wright in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:27 pm
@The Seeking Disicple, you are right and Kathy is wrong. By Obama’s works and associations over a lifetime, I can safely discern that he does not know Jesus as Lord.

Acrusadero in reply November 7th, 2012 at 6:44 pm
@Kathy Baldock - this is one of the reasons he won. Where is the discernment? He is not a Christian, he does not hold to the authority of scripture but seeks to destroy the foundation of the family, and promotes abortion on demands. Could you see any of the disciples doing that? You seriously need a discernment check. I commit to pray for his salvation, the greatest need of all humanity.
Laurie Duffy November 7th, 2012 at 3:47 am
News (other than election news which is more formal) broadcasts usually refer to the president by last name only. My kids have picked up on this. In less formal families this may be OK (j,e, families that don;t call anyone Mr. or Mrs. etc). The point is not so much to follow a legalistic manner of referring to the president in such and such a way, etc. but to truly care about God enough to honor Him through obedience to His law. Our kids may see us disappointed that our choice candidtate lost or our horror at the ongoing endorsement of abortion on demand. What they will also see *by God’s grace* is a humble resignation to His Sovereignty and acknowedgement that He sets up Presidents, etc. In this posture we can admit that we are all in need of His grace and lost without it.

Mary Gilliam in reply November 10th, 2012 at 2:23 pm
@Laurie Duffy, OK to teach kids that the Presidency is an honor and requires homorable men. But Obama is not one of them.
Michael Yerzy November 7th, 2012 at 5:02 am
Really, Mr. Moore?

Was it not many a Christian people who rebelled against the king of England and told him, “No! We will not continue under your rule”?

The founders of this country were, according to some, godly and christian men…when should we take their example, to stop putting up with the oppressive taxation and despotic lies?

Let us never forget those Christian men and women who bled and FOUGHT against that tyrannical authority figure that was sovereignly placed. They didn’t continue with the spineless mantra, “As The Lord wills,” but saw that decisive action against the king was The Lord’s will.

Were they wrong?

Glory and Honor to Messiah Yeshua. Let us do right in His sight, but to be wise, knowing when to say when.

Greg Warner in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:06 pm
@Michael Yerzy Submission doesn’t mean never speaking out with conviction against tyranny and injustice. We speak the truth with conviction (as Dr. Moore noted). But we commanded by God to show honor to authority not because they are always good or right (as was the case in NT times), but because God has raised them up (Rom. 13:1), and no authority rises that isn’t from Him. What if they are despotic, even bringing persecution to God’s people? Remember too that Scripture clearly says we are called to suffer, (Phil. 1:29, 1 Pet. 2:2) which means that even as we stand for truth we don’t stop showing honor to those God puts in such positions, even as we may have to endure the difficulties and pains they cause us.
John Monroe November 7th, 2012 at 5:50 am
Very well said. Thanks for giving us this reminder. I am just wondering how we can get Chriatians to not hate the one that is in office. It comes out on social media and everywhere. If the world see hate from Christians, the world will never see Jesus.
Joe Pelletier November 7th, 2012 at 7:28 am
Yes, I don’t agree with many of President Obama’s policies and ideologies. But I will pray for him and his salvation. Like all of us, President Obama is in desperate need of the the Savior Jesus Christ. Thanks for the reminder that, indeed, Jesus is Lord!

Jenna Sanders in reply November 8th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
@Joe Pelletier,

I completely agree.
Kim de Blecourt November 7th, 2012 at 7:45 am
Thank you, Dr. Moore. A great reminder as to where our loyalties ultimately are…or should be.
justin November 7th, 2012 at 8:24 am
Point to me in the bible where God says follow an Evil man assist him in his Evil ways. We have been given a gift in this nation to be self directed, no other society had ever been given this. We are like the blind man with scales on our eyes we just need the faith in Jesus to see what our coutry has become. 21 trillion in debt(including obamacare) 121 trillion in unfunded liabilities.
Sally Ferguson November 7th, 2012 at 8:46 am
Good reminder. Honor the king. But bow before our Sovereign Lord.
Marilyn J November 7th, 2012 at 8:48 am
Let me make a small, yet very important correction to your beginning statement.
God DID NOT put him back in office, the electoral college did! Even the American people and their votes DID NOT want him back in the white house.
I am a Christian and I cannot honor a man I have no respect for!
All I can do at this point is pray for our country!

Nancy shaw in reply November 7th, 2012 at 9:34 am
@Marilyn J,
I agree with you that God did NOT put Obama back in office. However, to “Honor” someone, means that you must live with integrity, morality and truth to God. We can do that without supporting Obama.

Ashley in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:22 pm
@Marilyn J,

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.
(Romans 13:1 ESV)

Caleb W in reply November 7th, 2012 at 3:07 pm
@Marilyn J,
“Even the American people and their votes DID NOT want him back in the white house.”

How can you say that? At this point, Obama won both the popular vote and the electoral colleges.

Sophia L in reply November 7th, 2012 at 3:34 pm
@Marilyn J,
How can you claim to be a Christian and denounce the role of God in this election? As a fellow sister in Christ, I am not entirely happy with the results, but I find comfort in the fact that God ALLOWED Obama to win. For what purpose? We shall all see soon enough. But do not make the erroneous claim that this all happened under God’s nose.

@Ashley,
Thank you for quoting this passage. This is something we all need to remember.

Dan Kreider in reply November 8th, 2012 at 12:52 am
@Marilyn J, If you believe that God did not appoint President Obama to win, what do you do with these verses?

Romans 9:17 - For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”

Acts 4:27-28 - For truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever your hand and your plan had **predestined to take place.**

Yes, I’m troubled that Christians feel they have a right to disobey the Scriptures when it comes to honoring those in authority over them. But it’s also disconcerting so see such a small view of God. As though God watched the election with His hands sheepishly in His pockets, saying, “Well shucks, I mean, I’m just watching from the sidelines.”

“The powers that be are ordained by God.” This is not passive permission. It is divine appointment. God has told us how He acts. It is our obligation to bend our preconceptions to accept Him at His word.

Carlyle Castle in reply November 8th, 2012 at 11:29 pm
@Marilyn J,

Thank you for your email. I agree.

Carlyle
Bob Sander November 7th, 2012 at 8:50 am
Thank you Dr. Moore! Very well said. May we all live and share the Gospel with strength and passion as this is the means of real change.
Pastor Boykin McNeal sr November 7th, 2012 at 9:02 am
I am blessed by you brother, I agree whole heartily with this. We don’t agree but we should not disrespect our leaders. We as believers should set the example. I am a African American pastor who is apart of the Southern Baptist Convention. It has been hard seeing this election cause such separation.

Frank DeSantis in reply November 11th, 2012 at 10:59 pm
@Pastor Boykin McNeal sr, this man signed into law the partial birth abortion bill. Did you ever see that procedure Pastor Boykin, as a christian I could NEVER VOTE for any candidate that endorsed that. Everyone who voted for obama has the blood of millions of babies that will have a needle put in the back of their heads as they enter this world. Please do not try and protect this man and his health czar. Every black person who voted for this man did it because he is black, thats can only be the answer or maybe to continue to get their check every month. Hear this, every time your congregation shouts and praises God let them remember their voted was a vote for PARTIAL BIRTH ABORTION. And you know what, every liberal christian will say so what, look at the positive things he did in his last four years. OH I forgot, 14,8 % unemployment in the black community.

Leanna Derauso in reply November 15th, 2012 at 12:41 am
@Frank DeSantis–

You either willfully or ignorantly misrepresent the President’s position on abortion. At what point did the President sign into law a partial birth abortion bill. I’ve heard this smear against the President from so-called Christians who seem to care more for people in utero and not much for them after they are born, unless they are rich or lack minority status. Please stop bearing false witness against President Obama.

Here is Candidate Obama’s position on ‘partial birth’ abortions:
“On an issue like partial birth abortion, I strongly believe that the state can properly restrict late-term abortions. I have said so repeatedly. All I’ve said is we should have a provision to protect the health of the mother, and many of the bills that came before me didn’t have that.”

Also, voting against a ban on late-term abortion with no exception for the health of the mother is not the same as voting for partial birth abortion.
Lorri Castro November 7th, 2012 at 9:12 am
Thanks for the reminder, very good article.
Nancy shaw November 7th, 2012 at 9:30 am
Agree with most everything EXCEPT…your comment “God has decided Obama should have a second term.” God did NOT decide that fate for our country, Americans did. That being said, I will honor the president by standing up for what is right and standing against what is wrong, seek the truth, and ALWAYS putting God before anything or anyone. To be of great character, integrity and morality, that is what honor means.

d champagne in reply November 7th, 2012 at 10:48 am
@Nancy shaw, I agree. Saying God decided Obama should be president is like saying God decided you should have cancer or God decided your car should be stolen. It doesn’t work that way. We live in an imperfect world and it is the results of OUR actions that determine outcome. God can choose to intervene and change things, but He did not do that in this case. Whatever the outcome is for our country, it’s a small blip on the whole scope of the Christians goal for being here on earth. Our goal is to tell others about Jesus and bad-mouthing the president, or anyone else, is not going to lead anyone to Christ. Big picture people.

J Sutherland in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:01 pm
@d champagne,
D,
I believe that you are making an assumption that is unfounded. Many times throughout scripture GOD gave Israel over to certain leaders/nations as a lesson for their correction and/or edification. It appears you are assuming that GOD did not intercede upon the hearts of man during this election because of who was elected, however, Romans 13:1-7 would seem to dispute that.

J Sutherland in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:08 pm
@Nancy shaw,

I believe that you are making an assumption that is unfounded. Many times throughout scripture GOD gave Israel over to certain leaders/nations as a lesson for their correction and/or edification. It appears you are assuming that GOD did not intercede upon the hearts of man during this election because of who was elected, however, Romans 13:1-7 would seem to dispute that.

anonymous in reply November 7th, 2012 at 3:02 pm
@Nancy shaw, I believe God is control of all things…Good or Bad. He knows whats best. Simple
Trisha November 7th, 2012 at 10:12 am
EXCELLENT! Thank you for sharing this and may others pray and know that Heb 13:8 still applies: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” He is in control, dear friends! Rest in HIM!
*~*Jilly*~* November 7th, 2012 at 10:19 am
I strongly believe that God appoints the office; however I do not believe that God appoints men like Obama! Or the woman running my country!

I do believe that God gives people the right to exercise their free will! But I also believe that although God will bless a country because of His children; the people in that country will go through hard and troubled times because of the choices they make that go against God’s perfect will.
We need to pray! ~ Jilly

Ashley in reply November 7th, 2012 at 12:20 pm
@*~*Jilly*~*,
Romans 13:1 says, Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.

I know and understand the difficulty you feel in believing this; trust me, it’s hard to wrap my mind around! But God’s word is absolute truth.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 4:01 pm
Ashley, ALL that “subject to” means is that we obey the law and recognize that the President is in charge! That’s all it means and I’m Jilly would agree. She said nothing incorrect or anti-biblical.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 4:02 pm
Ashley, I’m sure Jilly agrees we must recognize that Obama is the President and obey the laws. She didn’t say anything anti-biblical.

Ashley in reply November 7th, 2012 at 5:39 pm
Jilly said: “however I do not believe that God appoints men like Obama! ”

Romans 13:1 says that every authority that exists is instituted by God. That was the point I was trying to make.
Asiyah Kurtz November 7th, 2012 at 10:40 am
Amen but thank God that He is sovereign no matter who is in office!
Joel Appenzeller November 7th, 2012 at 10:44 am
I can mentally assent to your encouragement to pray for our President, whoever he may be. I will say, however, that how and what I pray for are an important detail. I will pray for his salvation. I will pray that God confounds his plans and makes his efforts of no affect. I will pray that he find no favor and have difficulty at every turn.

Yes I will pray.

The trouble with this kind of opinion is that it is not really providing the full picture of what is happening here. God is indeed Sovereign. He caused last night’s result. But before you think happy thoughts about that, I encourage you to read the accounts of the Kingdom of Israel after it was divided in 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles. God eventually sent them both away from their homeland as a result of immorality. He moved them as slaves and captives to lands they did not know. In other words, He is entirely capable of permitting or causing pain as He is blessing. The result last night says to me that this country has fallen under His righteous justice as a result of the innocent blood shed in abortion clinics all across this country.

What is about to happen is not encouraging and our children are going to live in a nation that barely resembles what we have been graced to live in. The immorality that the President represents cannot be supported in any way shape or form.

I will pray for him. Yes I certainly will.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:55 pm
@Joel Appenzeller, I could not agree more. This sums up the truth perfectly. Yes, we should pray for Obama—for uneasy nights. James Dobson first proposed this idea in 2008. We should pray that God will prick his conscience to the point where he can’t even sleep and (hopefully) repents. I do not foresee this happening. Nevertheless, if you are looking for something to pray about for the President, I submit that this is the best thing that could happen to him.
Frank Spires November 7th, 2012 at 10:45 am
If I believe in the sovereignty of a holy God, I have no choice but to honor His commands. All scripture is inspired, even the parts that don’t appeal to me on a morning such as this. A co-worker advised me that she had prayed more for our country in the past 36 hours than in the past 36 months. I have to confess I am guilty of that as well. I suspect that many other Christians are also guilty. Our future is not in the hands of a man, but that does not diminish God’s command that we should pray for and honor the offices of leadership He has given to us.

C Turner in reply November 7th, 2012 at 9:26 pm
@Frank Spires, Well said, thank you. If we prayed each time we felt the temptation to spit hate and anger at our politicians, it’s just possible our nation could change. All our vitriolic hate drives normal people (the type that need God) away from us - maybe prayer would equip us to reach out to them. Instead of fearing our outbursts, they may be drawn to our serenity and wisdom. For the truly Christian among us, let’s try adding thanksgiving to our supplication.
tanama November 7th, 2012 at 10:49 am
But wait, why is religion even an issue in politics? What happened to the separation between church and state?
Ben Folds November 7th, 2012 at 11:01 am
2 things:

God allowing something to happen is different than God deciding that something should happen. God allows us to sin, God allows evil to reign on earth. If God were to decide for us to sin or decide for evil, He would be very good, would He.

How do you view Martin Luther and the Reformation, the American Revolution, the abolition movement, the anti-apartheid movement, the civil-rights movement. All of these things are anti-established government movements that Christians were actively involved in.
Caleb McCain November 7th, 2012 at 11:34 am
I have a question that I have never satisfactorily answered for myself:

What am I to make of the fact that scripture indicates that the early Christians were commanded to honor and support (in the form of their taxes) a leader who held himself out as a god to be worshiped? How does that inform this conversation?

Any thoughts?

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 2:58 pm
@Caleb McCain, again, don’t jump to ascribe to the word “honor” the same connotations it would bear today. “Honor” does not necessarily mean respect or reverence in this context. However, when Jesus said to render to Caesar what was Caesar’s, he was referring to nothing more than a coin. The coin bears his image, so you give him the coin. We bear God’s image. We give ourselves to God. Hope that makes a little sense.
Kimberly Grace November 7th, 2012 at 11:34 am
Thank you, Russell, for courageously leading believers in Christ back to integrity, honesty, and humility. My heart breaks at where the body of believers has come. I pray that we will understand that God uses our transformed hearts and loving service to change the world… not our ranting about righteousness. Please, please, Church…can we get back to the kingdom of God and stop this unrelenting quest for political control and power? How can a loving heart sincerely equate Obama with Hitler… a man who ordered the deaths of multitudes of people and went on a killing spree to control the world? Come back to the heart of God… where He will lead your heart to break so that your energy can go toward making a real difference in the lives of those who are lost. May God never reward the church for becoming so judgmental.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 7th, 2012 at 3:41 pm
@Kimberly Grace, Obama isn’t in a position where he can control the world. I’m sure, in his dreams… as for systematically arranging the deaths of numerous innocent people, see my above response to Rebecca. Every “loving heart” should beat ten times faster with righteous anger at what this administration has wrought.

C Turner in reply November 7th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
@Kimberly Grace, What a great response! You are so right. I much prefer your response than “yankeegospelgirls” gospel of anger.
graciehill48 November 7th, 2012 at 11:39 am
shared.
Rick Troth November 7th, 2012 at 11:57 am
Well said, Dr. Moore. And thanks.

It hurts … I *feel* the same bitterness as YankeeGospelGirl expresses. But the anger of man does not accomplish the Righteousness of God. For too long, I lived by feelings. Time for me to instead follow the Lord’s lead, be obedient, and live by the power of the Holy Spirit, Christ in me.

– R; <
Ashley November 7th, 2012 at 12:15 pm
I am AMAZED that Christians are denying the authority of Scripture in this matter. A poor reflection on our churches and an overall low view of Scripture as the final authority in all areas of life. Great post.
Dave Eaton November 7th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
John Knox and Dietrich Bonhoeffer did not honor lawbreakers.
Duncan Edge November 7th, 2012 at 12:44 pm
I have one question… If you were living in Germany in 1941, would you feel the same way? The word tells us to give honor to whom honor is due. I cannot honor this man… as a Christian, I cannot respect or honor a man who so blatantly denies the right of innocent people to live.

I respect your thoughts, but I cannot disagree more.
Anonymous November 7th, 2012 at 1:16 pm
“We can pray for him to be granted wisdom and health. We can pray that God would prosper his good ideas, and change his mind on his bad ideas.”

Keep in mind that his “bad ideas” are only “bad” to Christians, and that the ultimately boiled down concept behind Christianity is to spread the word of love and acceptance. I could not vote for Romney because of his stance on homosexual relations sends a message of scorn. And in my interpretation of the Bible, (which I am entitled to), God would not approve of such a message, and would not want it countered with hate or scorn, but with sadness that man still dissects itself into groups rather than accepting that we are all equal. Acceptance.

Scott McWhirter in reply November 7th, 2012 at 3:52 pm
@Anonymous, be careful when you make generalizations about Christianity that aren’t true. You’re right when you say that hate against others is something God wouldn’t approve of, but wanting to keep marriage the way that God intended it is not hate, and has absolutely nothing to do with certain people being better than others. Sure, many “Christians” take it overboard and treat homosexuality as a sin that is somehow worse than premarital sex, or not showing love to others, or lying. Sin is sin. Christianity is about something WAY bigger than just love and acceptance. It is about a Savior who died to make sinners clean. So don’t try to water down the message of Christ to make it seem more palatable for people. The message is good news, but not necessarily the good news that we expected. It’s so much more than that!
michael roberson November 7th, 2012 at 4:44 pm
I, for one, will at all costs, do what is within my spiritual and physical power to keep my family, children and loved ones from becoming torches to light up this leaders courtyard. This sounds extreme doesn’t it? Yet, if we step back in time and see what we humans are capable of …………My God man, the thought of it. So, how ’bout we stand up and fight. This country was not won by sitting on our hands. Blood was shed and shed and shed. God will lead us in our battle as Christians. If the bible is your sword, then glory, glory. But, if you stand with words only, you will always fail somebody in need. The person in the highest office of our nation is a very dangerous man. I think I will not give in to him under any circumstances. We must be steadfast in prayer and in our convictions as followers in Christ.

Donna McPherson in reply November 7th, 2012 at 5:25 pm
@michael roberson, I don’t recall the early church fighting, or Stephen, or Jesus Christ himself for that matter. Jesus came to teach us a more excellent way; his words not mine. There is a vast deference between standing (which they all did) and fighting (which all of them died to keep from doing). Jesus took a stand but he never fought. That’s why the Jews rejected him as the messiah remember. Maybe the problem is you, like them, want to make him into what you think would be useful, not what he said to imitate. That Jesus is a lot harder to follow.
Donna McPherson November 7th, 2012 at 5:11 pm
Please! Enough! God can use a righteous man to govern. He can use a man who makes mistakes but trust God to govern. He can also turn the heart of someone like Pharaoh. If God wants America to prosper he will achieve that no matter who is in office. If God wants us to become a third world country to change our hearts or for any other reason he will do that.
It is not our job to change the world through politics or war. If you remember that’s what the Jews thought they were going to do when the messiah came. What really happened? God had planned for him to die instead. God has his own plans. Everyone stop acting as though you know what they are.
God hasn’t promised believers in the United States anything he hasn’t promised believers in China, Kenya, or Afghanistan! He promised to be with us, he promised he would work things out for our eventual good. Oh yeah, he promise one more thing: in this world you will have trouble.
Our place here is simple: shine his light. If you’d stop trying to change policies and laws long enough to shine his light it would change hearts. Then the policies and laws would change by default.
I have great news for you. . . God did not walk away from his thrown when President Obama was reelected. He’s still there! Mitt Rodney is not our hope lost! Jesus is our hope eternal. Please start acting like you know it!
Bryan Kelso November 7th, 2012 at 5:49 pm
What would be most helpful, Russell, is if you used Scripture correctly. Both of your references to Paul addressing Felix are incorrect, completely incorrect. The first one was from a commander, and the second was from Paul’s accuser before Felix. Read the passages again in Acts (Acts 23:25-30; Acts 24:1-9). Russell, be careful to use Scripture accurately. I’m still working through the rest of your thoughts and Scriptures.
tom jefferson November 7th, 2012 at 6:03 pm
It is hard to honor a man who upholds the slaughter of babies. It is hard to honor a man who leads this nation to accept and affirm homosexual “marriage.” It is hard to honor a man who ignores his convention’s mocking and booing the name of the most Holy God of Scripture.
michael roberson November 7th, 2012 at 6:03 pm
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered the king, “O Nebuchadnezar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3:16-18
Peter Novochekhov November 7th, 2012 at 6:04 pm
Dr. Moore, looks like it is a good time to reread Francis Schaeffer’s Christian Manifesto. Or Dietrich Bonhoeffer? Or maybe Alexander Solzhenitsyn?
S. Suffron November 7th, 2012 at 6:11 pm
There is a very real possibility - from an eternal perspective - that 4-8 years of a Mormon as the most famous person in the world would do more eternal damage than another 4 years of checked power for President Obama. The difference in the number of abortions over the next four years in our country between if Romney is President or Obama is probably not very high. But the raised profile of the Mormon religion in the U.S. and especially the world if Romney were President for eight years would give the Mormons much more opportunity to spread their false gospel. While I am distressed about some of the things President Obama will do over the next four years, I am also relieved that Mitt Romney will not be President.
America November 7th, 2012 at 6:27 pm
Organized religion is the root of all evil.

You’re all a bunch of nut job sheeple.

Hate, raciscm, and war is your steeple.

Go back under the rocks from where you once came.

You, the church, and your false prophets are the real shame.
Dr. T November 7th, 2012 at 7:42 pm
It is interesting to me how so many so called Christians use Obamas non Christian political ideologies as a justification for disobeying scripture. I’m not saying that abortion is Biblical, but what I am saying that to honor those in authority is very much so. When did Christians get the right to decide on behalf of god if we should honor the person in authority. Last time I read scripture it says that god decides who assume a position of authority and to dis ahonor that person is to dishonor what god has into place. Also, let us not forget that Romney is a Morman. That in of itself is enough to disqualify him if we are using the bible as the sole yardstick for selecting a political leader. Maybe we should reconsider the fact that the commander in chief is not the same as the pastor, priest, bishop, minister etc. Remember that Jesus is our king!!! How many people did not vote for ROMNEY because he is not concerned about the 47%. Isn’t that antithetical to christ and his concern for the least and the poor? Do we only care about the least before they are born? All I’m saying is that it is really complicated and that jesus was just as compassionate for babies as he was for poor, foriegners, women, minorities, handicapped, etc. Remember when he literally handed out fish and bread to thousands? What that not a version of social service? The issues are so much more complex than abortion versus non abortion.

Ree Brewster in reply November 8th, 2012 at 3:22 pm
@Dr. T,

Not really so complex. To say that Romney “is not concerned about the 47%” is a vicious lie spread by the party of lies, and who is the father of lies? Who do they obviously follow? As for the poor (who have been helped more by Romney personally than by all the Democrats put together), Jesus most certainly DID NOT say “give all your food to the government and then they will redistribute it”. He said YOU give to the poor, and by forcing redistribution through the government, and creating such extreme dependency and feelings of entitlement and victimization on the lower classes, and hatred of anyone better off than them, you have instead put their souls in peril, along with those who think that voting Democrat is morally fulfilling that command. It’s not complex at all and I think people like you will have a lot to answer for.
Mrs. B November 7th, 2012 at 7:55 pm
Honor the King, AMEN!
http://dea-frommyhearttoyours.blogspot.com/2012/11/post-election-thought.html
Joshua Amaezechi November 7th, 2012 at 8:05 pm
Anyone who would have been willing to honor Romney as President but have problem with honoring President Obama should examine his or her heart and ask the question: could it be that you regard yourself more highly than you ought to? I was shocked that as soon as Romney became the candidate of the Republican party, the false but consistently/widely circulated charge that Obama was a Muslim was dropped. Why? the peddlers of that falsehood who supposedly were Christians did not want to face the truth that their candidate worships many gods. Anyone who would have been willing to honor Romney, a Mormon, should have no difficulty honoring President Obama a christian. When you vote, you commit yourself to honor the outcome of the election. You may disagree with President Obama but you do not have right to disagree with the honor due him, you gave up that right when you cast your vote- He is the President. The politics of hate against Obama started the very day he was sworn in, even before he had done anything or said anything controversial. Many unbelievers are amazed at this.

Rudy Landa in reply November 7th, 2012 at 10:54 pm
@Joshua Amaezechi, “Anyone who would have been willing to honor Romney as President but have problem with honoring President Obama should examine his or her heart and ask the question: could it be that you regard yourself more highly than you ought to?”

I know who I am in Christ and thus I know my value….

Romney might be a Mormon and by our all-knowing-Evangelical-wisdom a member of a Cult….HOWEVER….this is a cult that is “GOD FEARING”….allbeit their version of God…they value life, they do not endorse same-sex-marriage, stem cell research etc….if what was a stake was mormonism becoming our national religion then I would say “fear Romney!!” ……..but it wasnt…..it was an economy that’s about to all out collapse and send us back to the stone age.

Lets think about this….we can have a pro-gay, pro abortion, anti-military community organizer who has managed to get us 8 trillion dollars more in the hole than we were 4 years ago…….OR we could have a Mormon who is Pro-Life, anti-gay marriage, pro-military, with a conservative Catholic as a VP, who is VERY WEALTHY trying to deal with the economy….I’ll take the guy with the millions. Thank you.

Ashley in reply November 8th, 2012 at 2:13 pm
@Rudy Landa–

One can not be God-fearing if they fear a false god. Everyone is either in the category of sheep or goat.
Paul Smith November 7th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
Two passages to consider. In Jeremiah 11:14-17 and 14:11-16 God told Jeremiah TWICE not to pray for his people. Notice, GOD told Jeremiah to cease praying. How does that relate to this situation? I don’t have the definitive answer. But I do know that the way in which “honor the king” and “pray for your rulers” is used today it is nothing more than condescension and complicity.

It seems to me there is a point at which we should cease to pray for a godless people, (not simply a ruler) and there is a point at which God simply refuses to listen to those meaningless prayers if they are uttered.

Have we reached that point? Only God himself knows. If you believe it is God’s will for you to pray for Obama, then you must pray. If, however, you see prayers for such a government as the one we have as being a mockery of the gift of prayer, then you must withhold that prayer. As I see it, both options carry with it the necessity of understanding God’s will in a perilous time. That decision is not always easy.

And, be careful about using Dietrich Bonhoeffer for any argument. Bonhoeffer wrestled long and tearfully about his knowledge of and participation in the conspiracy to kill Hitler - “tyrannicide” is much different than assassination or murder. And he accepted full well the condemnation he would receive if God held him guilty. He simply trusted in God’s grace to forgive.

I agree with many posts above - unless the writer was privy to the throne room of God it is blasphemy for a mortal to declare any omniscient knowledge of God’s will. The most we can say is that it happened, and we must live as Christians with the consequences.
yankeegospelgirl November 7th, 2012 at 9:10 pm
“There is a very real possibility - from an eternal perspective - that 4-8 years of a Mormon as the most famous person in the world would do more eternal damage than another 4 years of checked power for President Obama.”

That’s nonsense, and I say this as someone who wasn’t dancing in the streets over Romney (not because he was Mormon but because he was a weak candidate).
Rick Morin November 7th, 2012 at 9:26 pm
Mr. Moore, respect is earned, not given. God help us with what obama’s supporters have done. Here is a lesson from 1 Sam. 8:6-20 that you and others would be wise to consider. It is about the people requesting a ruler who is not the one God intended for us to have, but he allowed the people their free will.

6 But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, “Give us a king to judge us.” So Samuel prayed to the Lord. 7 And the Lord said to Samuel, “Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them. 8 According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt, even to this day—with which they have forsaken Me and served other gods—so they are doing to you also. 9 Now therefore, heed their voice. However, you shall solemnly forewarn them, and show them the behavior of the king who will reign over them.”

10 So Samuel told all the words of the Lord to the people who asked him for a king. 11 And he said, “This will be the behavior of the king who will reign over you: He will take your sons and appoint them for his own chariots and to be his horsemen, and some will run before his chariots. 12 He will appoint captains over his thousands and captains over his fifties, will set some to plow his ground and reap his harvest, and some to make his weapons of war and equipment for his chariots. 13 He will take your daughters to be perfumers, cooks, and bakers. 14 And he will take the best of your fields, your vineyards, and your olive groves, and give them to his servants. 15 He will take a tenth of your grain and your vintage, and give it to his officers and servants. 16 And he will take your male servants, your female servants, your finest young men,[a] and your donkeys, and put them to his work. 17 He will take a tenth of your sheep. And you will be his servants. 18 And you will cry out in that day because of your king whom you have chosen for yourselves, and the Lord will not hear you in that day.”

19 Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, “No, but we will have a king over us, 20 that we also may be like all the nations, and that our king may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles.”
Lee Scott Kelley November 7th, 2012 at 9:45 pm
Russell,
I would love to discuss this with you at the ETS meeting next week but I can’t make it this year. You have some valid points but you worldview is incomplete. GOD did not actively choose Obama as our President but He allows even wicked men to occupy places of power to accomplish His will. I am also a staunch Calvinist!
yankeegospelgirl November 7th, 2012 at 10:45 pm
C Turner, and I suppose God is never angry? Jesus was never angry in his life on earth? I recall a verse in the Psalms that says “Kiss the Son, lest he be angry.” Oops.
Rudy Landa November 7th, 2012 at 10:48 pm
It’s a good thing that George Washington and the founding fathers did not read this article otherwise they might never have taken arms against the king to (of all things) DEMAND freedom of WORSHIP….

The difference between Felix and Obama (yes OBAMA) is that back then Felix had the authority with one word to end Paul’s life…Obama doesn’t… not to mention the fact that in Paul’s day the Governors were most definitely NOT governed by the consent of the governed…

Incidentally, I found this to be hilarious “In a democratic republic, the President and the Congress govern by the consent of the governed.” It was entirely possible last night for POTUS to have won electorally but lost popularly…..do you really believe this?

Finally, don’t get me wrong…..I am all for us as Christians to advocate decorum, civility, and decency especially to our children. I will pray as this article says, for God to bless his good ideas and change his mind on the bad ones…I will pray that God spares us from another 8 Trillion dollars of debt, for the soon-to-come Tax-maggedon and even a possibly catastrophic all-out collapse of the dollar….I will honor the office of the presidency, specifically by reminiscing on the qualities that made past presidents good leaders (when we had them) and to show my children the difference between a good president (who HIMSELF honors the office of the president of the United States of America) and a HORRIBLE president hellbent on making us the Socialist States of America. I will NEVER “celebrate” the man that is Barack Hussein Obama…..may God have mercy on his eternity.
Trudy November 7th, 2012 at 10:49 pm
@yankeegospelgirl - It must be nice to have all the answers! I’m glad you can tell who is “sadly misguided” or not so quickly. We better tell Saint Peter to step aside because you are truly a beacon of light in the darkness! /sarcasm
Joe Taylor November 7th, 2012 at 11:47 pm
Comparing President Obama to Hitler ? You people are freaks.

Dan Kreider in reply November 8th, 2012 at 12:35 am
@Joe Taylor, President Obama has consistently celebrated and promoted universal abortion on demand. Since Roe v. Wade was passed, abortions in the US have numbered in the tens of millions (not sure of the exact number, but I’m sure it would be easy to find). If you view an unborn baby as a human, the outrage and stunning grief should logically follow. And our sitting president is committed to making abortion universally available and effortless.

Invoking the name of Hitler may be intended by some as a gimmick, but at some level it’s not an unfair comparison.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 8th, 2012 at 3:31 pm
@Joe Taylor, That is not an argument.

Mary Gilliam in reply November 10th, 2012 at 2:26 pm
@Joe Taylor, Hitler killed millions - Abortion will kill millions this year alone. Obama supports abortion. Do you like killing the unborn and thinking it’s just a “choice”. What about the baby’s choice? Most films of abortion show the baby DESPERATELY trying to get away from the curette that will suction it from it’s mother’s womb.

Stand up for the voiceless, helpless unborn who WANT TO LIVE.
Kathryn A Woeppel November 8th, 2012 at 12:08 am
My son sent this to me today after I had told him how devastated I was with the outcome of this presidential race. You are right is saying what you did. I guess I am not as nice as you for I am leary of this man. Billy Graham had a wonderful article in our newspapers several times on how we need to vote for life. It was so uplifting. I will try to do as you say but I will fight for Our Heavenly Father to the end.
Megan Rae November 8th, 2012 at 12:42 am
This argument seems to assume that Christianity is synonymous with being republican. I would like to say that I am a Christian who fully supports President Barack Obama, and though not a Democrat, consider myself an Independent.

I understand that a lot of Christians identify strongly with the Republican party because of certain moral principles such as the right to life. (abortion)

However, there are many other issues that one must look at when choosing a president, and i think these are important too.

I like that this article is talking about how we should respect whoever is president. I would just like to say, that Barack Obama is a Christian, and as a Christian, I have a decision to make regarding who to vote president, a decision which is not decided for me based on my religion.
Adhemarde de Monteil November 8th, 2012 at 12:42 am
This is wrong. We can honor and/or respect LEGITIMATE authority, but obama fails on two counts. He is not legitimate because he does not respect and honor the law of God, e.g. his stance on abortion and homosexuality. Second, he is illegitimate because he does not honor the law of man, namely our Constitution, e.g. his circumvention of the will of the people when he forced obamacare on us, and of the Congress when he decided to pick an choose which laws his “justice department” would selectively enforce. All this does not consider whether or not he is actually Constitutionally qualified to be President, as he has spent several million dollars covering up his background. So, he is not a legitimate ruler and requires no respect.
Kris williams November 8th, 2012 at 12:56 am
Truth. God is sovereign and we are taught He appoints those who lead, and that nothing that is was created by other than His hands. Hitler, Stalin, Ghengis Kahn. Lincoln, Constantine,etc. thes weren’t “surprises” to Him. He used them for His purposes, much as He used King Saul of the days of the prophet Samuel. Obama is simply our modern day version of King Saul. The nation cried out for a King, God gave them one. His purposes. The mystery of his providence indeed.
stephen matlock November 8th, 2012 at 2:01 am
This is a good word, and a needed one.

While I support Obama, I do see how paralyzed the church is by partisan politics. I think the saddest thing of all is to see how the church of Jesus the King has become entwined with the politics of the Republican Party. We (the church) seem to forget this mistake which we’ve made over and over: when we ally ourselves with a political movement or party, we lose our prophetic voice, our call for justice, and we become a subsidiary and organ of the party and not the bride of Christ.

Christ calls us to befriend and bless the stranger. Christ calls us to feed the hungry, help the poor, care for the widows and orphans, leave the pursuit of riches behind, treat the rich and the poor alike, worship God only and not money–you know the drill. We hear these words every Sunday. A political party can be an organization we push to accomplish these goals, but joining with, or becoming part of, such a party means our message is diluted and shifted.

The church of Jesus Christ is a church called from every tribe and tongue and nation. There is something significantly, deeply wrong when a church is identified with a party that is near-pure one color or one ethnic group or one class or one economic set.

It’s difficult to disentangle the anger we can feel when “our side” loses, but either we believe in a sovereign God who moves the hearts of men and who is in control or we do not, and thus we live in fear, and demand compromise of our God-given direction and goals in order to fit into a party.

If God is on the throne, then the hearts of Obama and Romney are in his hand. We should rejoice in that, in the majesty and power of God, and not in the mere tenure of a president.

This is a time for the Christian church to re-think who it is in America, and to consider how deeply it has become entangled with one political party, and how much it has allowed itself to be identified with riches and success and power and greed. Christ calls us to a life of obedience, which includes faithfulness and integrity. We cannot speak to the world of the need for repentance and holiness if we ourselves are unfaithful to God and enthralled by a purely national, earthly party.

It has not worked for the church to align itself with the Republicans. More and more the Republican Party pursues policies in opposition to God’s values. More and more the voice of the church is lost in the media and the message. Where is the repentance of John? Where is the call of Jesus? Where is the evangelism of Paul? They are lost in campaigns and phone banks and speeches and drums. We’re serving a master who is not God, but Mammon.

It doesn’t mean the church aligns with the Democrats or the Libertarians or the Socialists, either. It means the church says “We are not for sale,” and the church does not commit any automatic support for candidates.

A good word, my friend. Made me think.

YankeeGospelGirl in reply November 8th, 2012 at 3:49 pm
@stephen matlock, Please explain why you feel you can in good conscience support our current President. I did not support Romney because he compromised on social issues, but I can’t see how any Christian could support Obama with full understanding of who he is and what he represents.

stephen matlock in reply November 10th, 2012 at 2:14 pm
I seem to be unable to reply to “YankeeGospelGirl,” so I hope this doesn’t get lost.

First, I appreciate that you read what I said and choose to engage with me. Most of the people I know who are Christians and who are conservatives are unable to get that far.

I choose, willingly and freely, to support Obama and to not support Romney, because I look at all the policies of each candidate, I look at the performance of each candidate, and I determined that Obama met more of my critical desires than Romney. While I am not going to flog my blog, you can click my name and read my answers as to why I chose Obama and did not, and could not, choose Romney.

I am concerned that Christians have been captured by a very narrow theology that says abortion and gays are the two factors that determine Christian righteousness. I read in the Gospels specific commands to love my neighbor, to care for widows and orphans and the poor; I do not read specific commands to hate gays or to block gay marriage, and I do not see specific commands to persecute women who are pregnant.

I know these are both explosively emotional topics for a lot of believers, and I won’t be able to disentangle those emotions from a reasoned argument. It will descend into proof-texting and shouting very soon, I predict.

But with that said–one topic (the place of gays in society) is all about our sexual identity, how we choose to behave, what makes us male or female, and how we actually behave. It’s complex, and full of mysteries, but it comes down to this: who we are as human beings includes our sexual identity and our sexual behaviors. The church has been delicate in discussing this, which is fine, I suppose. But I don’t find support in Scripture or in church practice to deny the existence of gay men and women in our society, and I don’t find support to deny them basic civil rights. They are, after all, as human as anyone else. Normal, in fact. I seem to recall in the Scriptures that Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed for wickedness which included the sin of selfishness and lack of charity. I don’t see the calls from preachers for God to rain down destruction upon a society that promotes greed and selfishness, but I’d think he’d need to be even-handed in his judgment, and I wonder at this lack of insight in the preachers who wish gay people were dead or would disappear. If we think gay people are not human and are to be excluded from life, well, then that’s a religious position, I suppose, but it’s completely and utterly unacceptable in a secular government and society. We don’t live–and have never lived–in a “Christian” nation, and we are not now living in kingdom of God on this earth. I’ve said elsewhere that God loved us Christians while we were yet sinners, and yet we who are loved by God to the point that he sacrificed his son for us–the greatest gift in all the universe and creation and the heavens above–are now identified by the hate we express to gays, lesbians, and the transgendered. It’s as if we refuse to talk about genitalia in any detail, denying it exists and denying who we are, and then focusing all our attention on the genitalia and sexual expressions of others. It’s not that big of a deal, really. We in the church used to be horrified by divorce (and God specifically says in Scripture he hates divorce though he’s never said he hates gay marriage). Now, after 50 or so years of no-fault divorce being the norm, we are no longer astonished or stumbled by divorced men and women. In fact, you will recall Reagan was a divorced man, and that Newt Gingrich has been divorced as well. Yet Christians felt fine supporting both of them, which is fine.

As far as abortion goes, well, perhaps there is less there than meets the eye. I find that the Christian evangelical church only recently started to see abortion as the Most Cruel Injustice of All Time. I get that. It sounds so right.

And yet it was not always thus, and it was not always so. It is more complex than most people want it to be. Women who are pregnant and who do not want to be pregnant in our society have the option to terminate their pregnancy. IOW, get an elective abortion. That is the secular society we live in. I am not a woman, and I’ve never wished my wife to have an abortion. I cannot find it in myself, however, to deny a women the right to choose to terminate her pregnancy. IOW, get an abortion.

I have to look at it this way: there is the “pro-choice” position, and there is the “pro-life” position. In between are lots of people who are not sure what they want. They wish abortion wasn’t something women choose, but they also cannot imagine forbidding a woman to choose. To use the Akin/Mourdock situation, a woman who is pregnant not by choice (by rape or through incest) is in the position of harboring a stranger. Would I be able to say “You must remain pregnant–must subject yourself to the risks of pregnancy, must avoid drinking and smoking and coffee and certain exercises, must subject yourself to increased risk of death, must subject yourself to permanent changes in your body, must bear to term a baby you never wanted and which will serve for at least the life of your pregnancy as a reminder that you were physically and forcefully violated–you must subject yourself to my will, because if you choose to terminate your pregnancy you are sinning, and I can’t allow sin”? I can’t. I have to leave space–I must leave space–for the woman to own her own body and life. To be a human. To choose.

Most people shy away from that. They allow an exception to their pro-life position for cases of rape or incest.

But that is the pro-choice position. We are giving women the choice to terminate their pregnancy. We’re just giving her a limit; we’re the ones actually making the decision for her. And if we do it for these cases, why do we not allow it for all cases? If we demand that it be allowed only for crimes, then we will force women to be investigated for the crime.

We are putting women in a second class apart from men (who never have to worry about becoming pregnant). We take away their choice, take away their autonomy, because–well, if you’re pregnant, we’ll force you to stay pregnant.

I don’t find that at all convincing, and it’s essentially a modified pro-choice position.

The alternative is really pro-life–no exceptions whatsoever. If this is what we believe and want, then we need to argue this, strongly and cogently. But most people will not accept it. And making it the mark of whom you support is going to give you a very limited field of candidates.

I look at this as I did back in the 70s, before the so-called pro-life movement convinced me otherwise. I used to believe abortion was a woman’s right. Then the church got convinced that the baby was more important than the woman; indeed, the idea of the fetus being a “baby” became a neat hat-trick.

I was a faithful pro-lifer. Now I am a faithful pro-choicer, again. The woman is the autonomous one, and unless you are completely and utterly pro-life, forbidding all abortion even for rape and incest, you are really pro-choice. Since I am, reluctantly, a believer in these exceptions, I find that in order to be intellectually and morally consistent I have to be completely pro-choice, and so I am.

I’m pretty sure this will generate a response, which you are free to do, and I’m OK with that. It’s not likely I’m going to be either hurt or convinced by your argument.

I will also speak to one thing unsaid in your comment, but something that troubles me far more than the cry against gay people or abortion, and that is the way the church in America has abandoned a core theological principle in order to accommodate themselves to the Republican candidate.

I have no animus against people such as Billy Graham, for example, but he is an example. I have believed and spoken aloud and affirmed the creeds where I say “Jesus Christ is the unique Son of God, uncreated, not made, God of God, Light of Light, Very God of Very God.” The Mormon church does not believe this. Which is fine. This is a free country. There is no religious test for office, and were Mr. Romney to be president, I would not be alarmed in the slightest that he is a faithful Mormon.

What alarms me is when people like Billy Graham and others who are church leaders now tell me that it is no longer important that we Christians believe in Jesus as the unique Son of God, that Mormonism’s difference isn’t at all important. Again, no animus against a church or religion, but great alarm at the slide away from orthodoxy on this.

There is a near-2000 year history of Christian belief and practice that supports the distinction of Jesus as the uncreated God as opposed to Jesus the created brother of Satan. I cannot express strongly enough how important this distinction is. And yet this distinction for which believers died in times past is now dismissed because Christians want a Republican.

I’m OK with people voting for Romney. I’m OK with Romney being Mormon. I really don’t care.

But I care about a church that abandons a definite core article of faith, part of the creed.

Gay rights and abortion are fairly new controversies, and they do not touch upon core principles of the church. We’ll muddle through just fine.

But abandoning the idea that Jesus is God in order to elect a president seems to me to be the same as Esau abandoning the blessing to receive the bowl of lentils. This is far more alarming to me than the idea that gay men might kiss in public.
TBot November 8th, 2012 at 2:12 am
Fantastic post by Dr. Moore and so many insightful comments, but I’m genuinely curious: why is abortion so politically motivating for Christians? Please allow me to explain my question in greater detail…

I believe that abortion is wrong and it’s consequences on our society are far-reaching and destructive. However, I fail to see why Christians only hitch their carts to “pro-life” politicians that do very little else but give the matter lip service during speeches.

As far as I can tell, the problem isn’t necessarily that abortions are legal, it’s that so many people want them. I think a comparison could be made to the Volstead Act and prohibition.

With so many children already languishing in the foster system, and our schools in financial ruins, would we serve as better “pro-lifers” by solving these problems first? (Honest question)

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 8th, 2012 at 3:35 pm
@TBot, once again, I had a reply here that got lost, so I apologize if this ends up showing up twice.

I would just ask, if you replaced “abortion” with “slavery” in your statement, would you feel the same way? Just like it’s fundamentally wrong to own people, it’s fundamentally wrong to murder innocent life. Your gut reaction to a statement that said “The problem doesn’t seem to be that slavery is legal but that so many people want slaves, so can’t we be better abolitionists by trying to support alternatives to slave-owning instead of fighting for slavery to be outlawed” would be “Wait a minute, why are we having this conversation??”

Furthermore, some of the women who have abortions are manipulated and pushed into it by manipulative people who are taking advantage of abortion’s easy availability, supposed normalcy and conveniency. Take away those things, and we really would have fewer abortion.

Please have a look at this article for a glimpse of the horrors going on right now as a direct result of this sin’s legality. A disabled woman being pressured by a judge to abort her child under the pretense that it’s “what she would have wanted”:

http://www.whatswrongwiththeworld.net/2012/11/the_elisa_bauer_casechoice_dev.html

YankeeGospelGirl in reply November 8th, 2012 at 3:46 pm
@TBot, I just had a thought that maybe for some reason my computer isn’t letting my response attempts show up because I inserted a link, so I’ll try again without it.

TBot, what if we took your argument and re-wrote it with the word “slavery” instead? “The problem isn’t so much that slavery is legal as that so many people want slaves. So wouldn’t we be more effective abolitionists if we supported alternatives to slave-owning instead of fighting on the legal front?” Slavery is fundamentally not okay, and neither is abortion. Something should strike you as prima facie misguided about that line of reasoning when we’re dealing with a concrete moral evil.

The other issue is that because abortion is so normalized, so available, and so convenient to have as a result of its nation-wide legality, women can be manipulated and pressured to have abortions against their will. Take away the legality and you remove a lot of the motivation for that pressure. As an example of the horrific lengths to which people will go, look up the currently active case of a disabled woman who has a judge “fighting for her right to choose” by pretending it’s what she would have wanted anyway (as if he knows). Her name is Elisa Bauer.

TBot in reply November 8th, 2012 at 10:28 pm
@yankeegospelgirl

You make some good points, particularly with regard to the legality being a stronger deterrent. Thank you. But is it truly as compelling to make a Biblical “concrete moral” case like it was for kidnapping and selling people into slavery?

I dont’ think it is because the suffering is not as readily apparent or provable, especially in an era of increasing hostility toward Christians who are largely seen as turning their back on unwanted children already living in poverty.

Just my two cents. I am eager to hear more of your thoughts, reading suggestions, etc., but also understand that time is a precious resource. Peace to you.

YGG in reply November 11th, 2012 at 5:02 pm
@TBot, I’ve tried quite a few times to respond, after clearing my cache I think I may have gotten it. Let’s try this (again). Everyone bear with me if this shows up a bajillion times two days from now.

You asked “Is it truly as compelling to make a Biblical ‘concrete moral’ case like it was for kidnapping and selling people into slavery? I don’t think it is because the suffering is not as readily apparent or provable…”

I confess to being puzzled by this. Have you heard of partial birth abortion? It means exactly what it sounds like—the baby is pulled into position, at which point its brains are sucked out or its body is torn apart. Bodies are often disposed in the toilets. We have video of abortions that show the child recoiling from the instrument and uttering what was famously called “the silent scream.” The problem is not that the suffering is unapparent or unprovable.

Beyond even the direct act of killing the child, there’s the psychological toll it takes on those who perform the acts, those who allow the acts, and those who are contributing their services to the clinics. One worker was found weeping by one of the toilets where bodies were disposed, and her superior told her to get over it and move on. The woman quit and became a Christian pro-life speaker featured on Focus on the Family.

Granted, some women inexplicably have such scorched consciences that they have never shown remorse for their abortions. But many others have experienced depression and lifelong regret, including Roe herself, of Roe v. Wade fame.

As for “how Christians are seen,” people need to look beyond a bias to the facts. The facts are that Christians do more than anyone else to provide solid outreach and aid to unwanted children and poor people. Entire organizations such as Show Hope are dedicated to adoption. Christians are adopting left and right. Catholic charities care for the poor in their community (and I might add that Obama’s HHS mandate has shown he’d rather have them collapse financially because they received to follow the mandate out of conscience than continue doing their work—I guess he wasn’t willing to “come together” with them on helping the poor).

Crisis pregnancy centers also offer aid and comfort to women facing a choice. Now granted one of the main tactics they use is developing the maternal bond in the hopes that this will provide a gut negative reaction in the woman to the thought of abortion. It’s a fine line to walk, because on the one hand this is a good thing, but on the other hand some women simply can’t raise their children, therefore adoption should be discussed at least as much in these contexts.
kingskid November 8th, 2012 at 4:09 am
I have a hard time honoring the person that got in again. It wasnt done right all the votes still arent in and he shouldn’t have been declared the winner until they were all in. Romney should have gotten in he was way ahead for along time. If Romney people had declared him a winner before all the votes were in people would have been so mad. When I think about how many more babies being aborted it really saddens me. The marriage between one man and one woman was defeated too that isn’t good. It does say in the Bible in the last days that men will call evil good and good evil and that is truly what is happening. I don’t believe either that God allowed Obama to be President we as Americans have gotten out from under Gods umbrella of protection. The people that were confused voted him back in.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 8th, 2012 at 3:30 pm
@kingskid, Apologies if this is a repeat comment, my comments are slow coming in.

I just wanted to say that I do believe God actually did ALLOW Obama to be reelected. Whether he “appointed” him or “installed” him is different. God allows bad things to happen all the time. Natural disasters as well as evil presidencies. As the Rich Mullins song says “The lord said let man choose, and man did.”

At this point, it seems we are heading for a time of judgment. So be ready to lose everything (and gain everything).
Paul Losiewicz November 8th, 2012 at 8:37 am
These are profoundly disturbing times to be a Christian. The fact that Bonhoeffer and Nero are being called into the political submission debate as icons, not unreasonably in my opinion, shows the seriousness of the challenge to the church with respect to the future of our civil liberties. The bible will no doubt soon be on the list of proscribed texts in our public schools as an example of “hate literature”. At least we can quit worrying about our retirement planning.
Empower November 8th, 2012 at 11:36 am
The thing I find most frustrating is how closed minded, hostile and intolerant many Democrats have become. I know they likely feel the same about Republicans. However, with the advent of social media I could tell many people were afraid to show support for their views. I know many people did not support Romney because he was wealthy - which saddens and sickens me. The same people who say they support the working person admonish success of a hard worker. In MN democrats will argue day and night about not hunting Wolves and will argue even more to protect the right to kill human babies. There is no doubt in my mind the US populace is very confused and unable to acurately examine the truths. I regret not being more active in expressing and promoting accurate clear thinking on the current realities. Unfortunately, we as a nation will have to support the President - but, we need to get involved and insist people think deeply about the issues, Shallow thinking and blind adherence to one political party by the populace is a real threat to our nation. This includes Republican blind adherence and intolerance of differing thoughts.

yankeegospelgirl in reply November 8th, 2012 at 3:25 pm
@Empower, one sobering thought is that the Republicans themselves may move to the left after this election in a desperate attempt to appear more moderate. Look to see them cave on gay marriage and make the life “exceptions” even more mainstream than they already are.
Steve November 8th, 2012 at 1:17 pm
I think some people need to heed James 1:19-20 before responding. Slow down, read, think, post. Don’t fly off emotionally. The author leaves room to disagree, protest, speak out, and even work to overturn unjust laws… just do so with respect, honoring Christ. What’s more important, honoring Christ or your own emotions?
Connie Williams November 8th, 2012 at 4:15 pm
In response to your statement “God has decided that Barack Obama would be re-elected.” Is so wrong. God did not decide that Obama would be President. The people decided when they voted. God does not intervene with mans free will. People voted for what THEY WANTED not what God wanted. God would not want His people supporting a man who condones abortion and gay marriages. In 1st Samuel chapter 8 the people didn’t want the Lord as their King they wanted a king to judge them so they would be like all the other nations. It grieved Samuel that the people didn’t want the Lord but when Samuel went before the Lord He told Samuel to give them what they wanted. The Lord told Samuel all the things that would happen to the people with the king they wanted, and it wasn’t good, but the people wanted a king anyway. In 8:22 And the Lord said to Samuel , “hearken unto their voice and make them a king.” God knew what was best for the Israelites and He warned them of the dangers of a human king. God had told Samuel who He had chosen to be King over Israel and it was David, but He gave them what they wanted and they wanted Saul. Look at the end result of getting what the people want instead of doing what God wants.

It isn’t about Republican or Democrat or Independent it’s about choosing the person closest to Gods principles. We did not have a Christian running for office, but Romney does not support abortion or gay marriage and he is a supporter of Israel so he should have been the one Christians should have voted for.

Steve in reply November 8th, 2012 at 8:36 pm
@Connie Williams,

Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. (Romans 13:1 NKJV)
frank sleeper November 8th, 2012 at 4:25 pm
I will admit bring terribly upset at the, again, election of policies and politicians that are demonstrating aggression against God. So much so though that now (last few years) it’s clouding my judgment in how to speak and act holy / robbing me of my peace! God IS in control. We have to remember, it’s not us that is being attacked, but God, and if He isn’t changing things - who am I to get all upset and rant and rave? We are letting the enemy steal our peace, or worse, ruin or testimony! Only God can change this, we must pray and be ever more diligent in our walk give the darkness!

Guys, I challenge you: Go read Proverbs, even the first few chapters! Get your peace back and your wisdom as I am struggling to as well. It’s been having a huge impact! Take the leadership of your own household and do the same there. That’s how either this changes, and we improve!
Pierre Tong November 8th, 2012 at 5:04 pm
Last time I checked - Roe v. Wade was decided in 1973

Presidents since 1973 - Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter Ronald Reagan, George Bush, Bill Clinton, George W Bush

Have people spoken out against the evil of abortion as Christians have done on this post during the presidency of the above presidents? Have you compared the above presidents to Hitler? You do realize that Mitt Romney is another politician who will say anything to get elected. When running for governor/senator in liberal Massachusetts, Mitt Romney claimed that he was pro-choice but somehow magically decided he was pro-life when he decided to run for president on the GOP ticket. (http://prolifeprofiles.com/mitt-romney-abortion) Furthermore, the religious beliefs that Mitt Romney believes in do not line up with what is stated in the Bible.

The overall message is that we shouldn’t put all our hope in politics but trust in God’s plan of salvation. Definitely will be praying for all our politicians - for God to change the hearts of all who are unbelievers for the good of our country.
Imre Beke, Jr. November 8th, 2012 at 5:18 pm
This is SO completely wrong!

“The American people have decided that Barack Obama should have a second term. And, behind them, in the mystery of providence, God has decided that Barack Obama would be re-elected.”

Um, no. God does not decide elections. He gives human beings free will, which people use to decide how to vote. God no more interferes in our free will with regards to voting than he does with regards to whether or not we commit a crime. God is not responsible for our acts. We are.

The author claims that 1 Peter 2:13-14 demands that we honor our leaders. It does not. It says we should SUBMIT to those authorities. Not at all the same.

“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.”

We have an obligation to obey laws which are legitimate. That is “submission.” We do NOT have an obligation to obey laws which are contrary to basic human rights or which violate the Constitution. Remember, this Nation was founded on the principle that the existence of the Government is predicated upon its willingness to defend our rights:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.”

A President does not have the right to govern simply because he is President. He does not even have that right because the Constitution says so. He gets that right from us and only from us. When he violates our rights, his right to govern - and any claim he has to honor and respect from us - evaporate instantly.

A President is unlike an Emperor and to draw that sort of analogy is foolishly mistaken. An Emperor or King has the right to rule by virtue of who he is. A President is an extension of the sovereign nature of the people themselves. The moment he begins to act like an Emperor or King, he no longer has ANY authority and thus is subject to being legitimately disrespected and dishonored by the people.

In a monarchy, the monarch is sovereign. In a Republic, the people are sovereign. WE - and NOT the President - are the very authority we are required to respect. WE are the Emperor. Obama is not.

Steve in reply November 8th, 2012 at 10:34 pm
@Imre Beke, Jr.,

Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. (Romans 13:1 NKJV)
Margaret dick November 8th, 2012 at 5:55 pm
I want to thank you for your beautiful column. I am 76, a Christian, and a life long yellow dog democrat. I had 2 ladies button hole me on the church parking lot and tell me I couldn’t be a Christian and vote Democrat. Of course, I know better. I appreciate the message in your column and thank you for being willing to take a second look at those of us who feel strongly about the teachings of our Lord Jesus and call ourselves Christians AND Democrats.
Jude 2 to you!
Margaret (Marty) Dick

Mary Bailey in reply November 8th, 2012 at 7:26 pm
@Margaret dick, I’m simply curious: how do you reconcile the democrat parties advocacy of gay marriage, abortion, and the assault on religious liberty i.e. Obamacare, with God’s word? I personally couldn’t pull the lever for a candidate whose party platform espoused those things.. Don’t think I could sleep at night. But I’m curious to know how you see it?
Mark Mincy November 8th, 2012 at 9:26 pm
I’m sure that all in this discussion recognize the horrible evil of abortion. I also understand that, at the very least, the government of our country is utterly failing to protect “the least of these”. But the comparison to Hitler’s Germany fails on at least one count. Hitler’s government was actively involved in the killing of helpless people - they actually carried out the acts. As despicable as abortion is, our government at this point only allows it. The ultimate perpetrators are individuals (moms and dads) who make the fateful decision. If our government ever actively promotes the killing of innocents, we are then at a point where “we ought to obey God rather than men”. This is the point that men like Bonhoeffer came to.

We can’t lay the blame for abortion solely at the feet of President Obama. We must pray for our government. We must honor their offices. And we must pray and minister so that individuals will be changed by the gospel of Jesus so that their eyes are opened to the truth about abortion (and sin in general).

Mary Gilliam in reply November 10th, 2012 at 8:34 pm
@Mark Mincy, Obama has actively engaged with America’s largest abortion-mill big business, Planned Parenthood. PP campaigned for him. They crush or try to crush politicians who oppose them.

How is Obama’s unholy alliance with Planned Parenthood, the modern “overs” for the unborn NOT like Hitler’s murder of millions people.

WAKE UP.
T.C. Robinson November 8th, 2012 at 11:44 pm
This is an excellent article. I pray that your kind multiply. We need to be Christian who truly understands grace and who put Christlikeness above ethnicity and nationality. Thank you, Dr. Moore.
Michael Harvey November 9th, 2012 at 12:39 am
I don’t understand why you say that not banning abortion is “an incursion on our civil liberty,” not enforcing something that is in the bible isn’t an attack on your religion. Wouldn’t banning abortion be forcing your religious beliefs on those of us who aren’t Christian? By your line of reasoning, not killing homosexuals should also be an attack on your religious rights. I think you should be able to believe what you want in the country, but when you start passing legislation enforcing the laws handed down from your deity, that is an attack on my ability to have freedom FROM religion.

Mary Gilliam in reply November 10th, 2012 at 2:21 pm
@Michael Harvey, So you think MURDER is OK?
Mrs. W November 9th, 2012 at 1:15 pm
To the author, I applaud you for trying, but the hatred of the president will not stop because of the nonstop spew of lies from the right wing media. Also, there is a great deal of racism alive and well in this country. Many Christians today hate the president a lot more than they say they love the Lord. And that my friend is a very sad truth.I have ex friends posting all over the internet that President Obama is the antichrist. calling him Hitler, a communist, whatever, but consistently demonizing him. I am really disgusted with it. I will tell you that my atheist friends are completely turned off by the way they see the Christians of today acting. They have no love in their hearts, but plenty of judgment. You will never win the world over to your side with such behavior.

tommy9999 in reply November 9th, 2012 at 7:38 pm
@Mrs. W,

What an awesome post by you!! The Republicans got crushed and will in future elections. Will they ever care more about the United States than the Republican Party?

Quit the name calling, etc. and let’s work together for solutions.
Linda Hinton November 9th, 2012 at 2:03 pm
Here is what I really do not understand. How does a segment of our society believe that anything that President Obama does infringes on the religious liberty of others? Truly, keeping religion out of government PROTECTS your right to believe as you wish and keep your churches open to preach what works for you.

We live in a country of great religious diversity, so saying that others who do not follow your beliefs are wrong….is just wrong. What would it take for mutual respect?

It is time to be loyal to our country and love thy neighbor.
Doug W November 9th, 2012 at 8:33 pm
I am sorry Dr. Moore I can never honor such an evil man
Angel November 9th, 2012 at 10:18 pm
The command to obey all authorities, kings, presidents, and rulers as Christians that we are is so misunderstood. We are living in a time when just about everything has a shaded area, a middle ground, a compromising answer to the clear truths found in Scriptures. If tomorrow the president issues a decree, a law to all sons and daughter to disobey their parents, to not honor their mom and dad. If tomorrow the president makes it into law that we are to murder anyone that is an inconvenience to our lifestyle - - would you obey the government, the president, would you submit to those laws? God forbid, of course not!! As Christians that we are, we have only one standard for living and that is the Word of God’ to be more specific, the Ten Commandments, as well as the other commandments given in the New Testament by Jesus and the writers of the Bible ! Case and point, Romans 13.
Romans 13:1-7 NKJV Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. 5 Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.
Notice that Paul says that the rulers are servants of God. This is the context of the submission that is mentioned at the beginning of the chapter. If these rulers are no longer servants of God, if they are not servants of the good but of evil, and if they contradict Scripture the commandments of God, they are not to be obeyed. A government like the Nazi government where evil ruled and unrighteousness was decreed, the people of God are not obligated to obey or submit. Once a government, a ruler has forsaken the God of the Bible (like king Saul), and become corrupt following after evil and rebellion against God and His Word then that ruler, that government is no longer a servant of God, a minister of good and righteousness! Romans 13 and any other reference such as 1 Peter 2:13-17 are standards of government and rulers that are serving God, and we are to submit, obey, and honor them as such. There is no honor to a king that’s evil, that governs the people by making laws that are in direct contradiction to the Bible. Remember also that God raised many kings and empires to bring judgment to Israel when she whored herself with gods of the nearby nations. Yes, God can allow a president to come to power as judgment to a people that has forsaken God, a president that reflects what people believe and want. We had the Protestant Reformation being lead by men like Martin Luther, we have this nation of ours because of people that wanted freedom from tyranny of government and religion, we have many men and women in the Bible and history that stood for truth, righteousness, and the commands of God in total opposition to the demands of kings to be worshiped and obeyed - - we are not to obey or submit to rulers and governments blindly! Yes, many died, and yes it might cost us our very lives, but I rather die obeying God and His Word than to kneel before an ungodly, wicked, evil ruler! Lastly I give you Peter when he was told by the High Priest of Israel to not be preaching the Gospel of Jesus. Peter technically calls them murderers in verse 30. Listen to Peters words, Acts 5:29 NLT But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than any human authority.
David Abott November 10th, 2012 at 12:47 am
I see you don’t support freedom of speech in the 1st Amendment either
tom jefferson November 10th, 2012 at 1:35 pm
Seriously. And I am not really saying that President Obama is the reincarnation of Hitler or the Anti-Christ.
But seriously,

Dr. Moore, would you have called for Christians to so honor Adolf Hitler?

What about the Christian Americans who took up arms against the King of England in the 1700s? Were they wrong and sinning against God?

Was John the Baptist wrong for calling out the King, Herod?

I am not trying to be anything but serious. What about such questions?
stephen matlock November 10th, 2012 at 2:25 pm
Oh gosh, as long as I have this keyboard, I’ll say one more thing.

Y’all should get a book by Joseph Bayly. “The Gospel Blimp.” (http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Modern-Parables-Joseph-Series/dp/0781409357)

I think it speaks far better about my viewpoint than anything I could actually type myself.
stephen matlock November 10th, 2012 at 5:26 pm
Another thing I don’t understand–we in America live in a fabulously wealthy, free, affluent society. Smart, rich, technologically sophisticated, well-educated. There is so little pushback on the most outrageous of Christian messages. There is so little needed by Christians to do to “honor the king.” We don’t have to swear obeisance to the president nor are we jailed for preaching Jesus.

And yet we American Christians are worked up to a lather over being told to obey scripture and pray for our leaders. Christians who received the letters from Paul and Peter were living during times when bowing the knee to Jesus and not the emperor would lead to banishment or disgrace or even death. We are nowhere near this.

I know it feels good to feel persecuted, but we are not being persecuted. I think we’re being ignored, and rightly so, because we are joyless and judgmental and interfering with people. We are not honored for being loving and kind; we are judged as being hateful and narrow.

I cannot believe that the Jesus of the New Testament would live like we do. I cannot believe a man who said “Come unto me all ye who are heavy laden and I will give you rest” would be of a party that seeks to condemns people and hunt out heretics. In a land under the heel of Rome and the authority of the Sanhedrin Jesus was completely free to preach and teach. We really need to see things today in America as they are–we are so free to preach and teach and love. We have such opportunities begging for us to take advantage of.
Timothy Ryan November 11th, 2012 at 7:33 am
The arrogance of these “Christians” appalls me. The belief that your dogma is the only correct one is precisely the mentality that allowed Hitler to rise to power and exterminate those who believed differently. Arrogance, exclusiveness, bigotry, oppression and racsim are not traits that any God would be proud of. Obama stands for exactly the opposite of everyone of those. Jesus, God, Mohammaed, Buddha and the Positive Energy of the Universe are the wind beneath his wings.

Puzzled in reply November 11th, 2012 at 4:53 pm
@Timothy Ryan, not sure what you’re smoking, but it must be pretty strong stuff.
Ryan Groene November 12th, 2012 at 6:47 pm
Alright, a few things:

1. I did vote for Romney, though if it were not for the issue of abortion, I probably would not have. That is a serious enough issue for me because I believe that the fetus actually IS a living human being and that it is murder, and I do believe that it is the government’s job to protect the rights of ALL people made in God’s image. Another issue that was really important for me was the government mandate that would force employers to pay for contraception for their employees even if it is opposed to their religious views. I don’t oppose contraception personally, but such a policy is definitely a violation of religious liberty and sets a very dangerous precedent.

2. As for the gay marriage issue, I am 100% opposed to homosexuality. The thing that has always confused me though is why Christians seem to think that whether or not homosexual marriage is officially recognized by the government will make any difference in how commonly it is practiced or accepted in our culture. Some people seem to think that if it is recognized by the government that that will make it more socially acceptable, but I believe it is exactly the other way around–if it is recognized by the government, that is simply proof that it has become socially acceptable. It is a reflection on society’s values, not a significant influence on them. If I were a politician (and trust me, that will NEVER happen), I would vote against it; I’m just saying that it does not have a huge bearing on whom I vote for.

3. I don’t think that it would necessarily be anti-Christian to vote for Obama. If I had a liberal view of economics (which I don’t), I would think that it would make sense to vote in a way that would help the needy, for it is our duty as Christians to do whatever we can to help those in need. Furthermore, if I thought that such policies helped to increase social justice, compassion and care for the poor, racial equality, etc., it would make sense that that would be good for our culture. There’s also other issues like war. I personally think that we are pouring WAY too much money into wars and national security. Should we continue to guard our country against terrorism? Of course, but I feel like a lot of the stuff we are doing in other countries is resulting in the deaths of many innocent people and is really not helping much; not to mention it is doing harm to our economy.

4. Personally, I don’t really have a good feeling about Romney, and I never really got the feeling he was a trustworthy person. Don’t quote me on that because I could easily be wrong. In terms of whom I agree with, the political quiz I took said I agree with Gary Johnson 87% and Mitt Romney 73%. The only reason I voted for Romney was because of the issue of abortion AND because I felt like it would be more practically advantageous to vote AGAINST Obama than to vote FOR Johnson.

5. The comparisons of Obama to Hitler, I think are fairly ridiculous. The obvious difference (and I think that this is HUGE) is that while Hitler was obviously motivated by hatred and racism and he KNEW that he was causing so many people to suffer and die and was GLAD about it. I’m guessing that Obama would probably still consider abortion unfortunate and is motivated by misplaced affection at best (for the woman and not for the baby) and apathy at worst. Also, while the fetus certainly suffers (at least in late term abortions), I’d be willing to bet that the suffering of Jews in the Holocaust was a lot worse. Again, this is BY NO MEANS an excuse for abortion or an agreement with Obama’s policies. As I said before, abortion is murder and is a terrible evil. My point is only to say that this comparison simply isn’t true.

6. As to the article itself, I agree that we are supposed to honor the governing authorities and that there is no qualification to that. Even taking into account the fact that Nero had not yet gone completely insane, he was still probably a worse ruler than Obama. I do, however, think that we might be arguing over terms. I honor Obama AS president, and I believe that God is sovereign and ultimately in control. I believe that God recognizes Obama’s position and his authority and that we should still submit to and obey the law except where it clearly violates our conscience. However, I think that it is perfectly acceptable for a Christian to honor a president in the sense of honoring their position of authority, but to still have very negative feelings about their policies, idealogy, or even personal morality or character.

YGG in reply November 13th, 2012 at 2:33 pm
@Ryan Groene, Obama certainly doesn’t lack knowledge about whether or not the children being murdered are human beings or not. Maybe he refuses to admit that a “fetus” in the first trimester is human, but that is simply a refusal to acknowledge fact, not a lack of information. It is enough that he believes some of the people being murdered to be human and still seems very eager to help more be murdered.

And about that eagerness… I would wager Obama IS satisfied, even “glad” about the work Planned Parenthood does. He considers that abortion is not merely a normal option but the BEST option possible for many women. PP is offering a necessary service in his view. So I think you’re mistaken when you say that he’s not satisfied or glad that this is taking place. Liberals are always satisfied when the world is as it should be according to them.

Thirdly, since you admit that your (purely speculative and quite possibly not even true if we find the right deaths to compare—being torn limb from limb versus being gassed, for example) comment about the relative suffering of murdered babies and murdered Jews has no argumentative weight, why even say it? It looks like pointless filler to me.

Christian Grandma in reply November 16th, 2012 at 9:15 am
@Ryan Groene, Christians who vote for Democrats because of ideas about helping the poor and social justice, etc., are seriously misguided. I know people like that. They somehow make the enormous leap in logic that since as Christians we are supposed to help people, that somehow automatically means we should turn the job over to the government. Totally illogical thinking. WE, individual Christians, are to help the needy, personally and through the church and various private organizations. Handing that huge job to the government is nowhere supported in the New Testament.
Robert E. Wilson November 15th, 2012 at 6:39 pm
I as a 3 time graduate of SBTS. Under Drs. McCall, Honeycutt and Molher feel pleased that you Dr. Moore have spoken with clarity and Christian conviction. We as the people of God should not only speak about 2 Chronicles 7:14 but we should believe it and accept the fact that our ways are not God’s ways.
Christian Grandma November 16th, 2012 at 9:06 am
Several thoughts:

(1) I am surprised that Russell Moore is surprised that American Christians view our political situation as very different from the political situation in ancient Rome. It IS very different, and it is a reality that we live in a society where participation in government is a right of every adult citizen. Participation includes speaking out. To fail to do so is to be a very poor steward of the individual liberty we enjoy in this nation. It is a blessing from God. We do not honor that blessing by refusing to participate in the political system.

(2) It is not disrespectful to refer to Obama as Obama. Bush was referred to as Bush, Clinton as Clinton. Using the word “President” every single time is cumbersome and just not necessary. It does not imply disrespect. It is merely a neutral way of speaking. Men are routinely referred to by their last names. It is a custom in this country. Not necessarily so for women, but we aren’t talking about a woman.

(3) Jesus referred to Herod as “that fox,” and He referred to the scribes and pharisees as a “brood of vipers.” By Russell Moore’s standards, Jesus should not have done that. No, we should not call anyone terrible names. But Christianity is not required to be mamby pamby in the expression of thought. Jesus certainly was not mamby pamby in the expression of thought.

(4) I am appalled that any true Christian would vote for Obama or for anyone on a Democrat ticket. Democrats almost universally favor abortion on demand. They approve of and promote gay marriage and everything else on the gay agenda. They see nothing wrong with avoiding marriage, living together, and having children out of wedlock. And they also favor bribing the poor to get votes. How can any Christian who honors the word of God also simultaneously honor the Democrat Party with their vote?
Ryan Matthew November 18th, 2012 at 10:49 pm
Christians, above all people, should pray for and show respect for our President and all of our elected officials.

Why? Given that the majority of politicians show no deference to the Constitution, the rule of law, they only warrant our condemnation. Sanctifying a leader on account of his being amenable to the court of public opinion really doesn’t count for much in a nation where 4 out 10 children are born out of wedlock and 55,000,000 unborn babies have been killed with the approbation of the collectivist state (which bests Stalin’s gulags and Hitler’s death camps combined.)

Providence gave us what is supposed to be a constitutional federal republic that steadily evolved into something corrupt that escapes definition for me at the moment.

Read the Political Sermons of the American Founding Era for countepoint; that’s a totally different breed of pastors than the ones that seek to dignify the undignifiable. Honor what’s honorable. The Patriot Act, NDAA, SOPA, PIPA and totalitarian transformation of America is NOT at all honorable.

-A quote by Patrick Henry: “I know, sir, how well it becomes a liberal man and a Christian to forget and forgive. As individuals professing a holy religion, it is our bounden duty to forgive injuries done us as individuals. But when the character of Christian you add the character of patriot, you are in a different situation. Our mild and holy system of religion inculcates an admirable maxim of forbearance. If your enemy smite one cheek, turn the other to him. But you must stop there. You cannot apply this to your country. As members of a social community, this maxim does not apply to you. When you consider injuries done to your country your political duty tells you of vengeance. Forgive as a private man, but never forgive public injuries. Observations of this nature are exceedingly unpleasant, but it is my duty to use them.”
[Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence and Speeches, William Wirt Henry, editor (New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1891), Vol. II, p. 490]

It’s bad enough when evangelicals are in the Amen corner of George W. Bush. He could sign Title X. of the HHS budget into law year after supporting funding for Planned Parenthood, but that fact won’t stop evangelicals from blindly doing cartwheels and singing his praises as the “Pro-Life President.”

“No! the voice of protest, of warning, of appeal is never more needed than when the clamor of fife and drum, echoed by the press and TOO OFTEN BY THE PULPIT, is bidding all men fall in and keep step and obey in silence the tyrannous word of command. Then, more than ever, it is the duty of the good citizen not to be silent.”
–Charles Eliot Norton

Moore, you respectfully ought to quite while you’re behind. You have a way of exalting your own self-righteousness, progressive political wiles and mistaking it for Christian piety.

Christ’s kingdom gates are not at the U.S. Border, and Jesus wasn’t saying “Bid the illegal aliens to enter the United States.” Then you needlessly sensationalized the adoption issue with your self-righteous standard. Cross-cultural adoptions are fine, but its counter part is NOT wrong as you dubbed it “the spirit of the antichrist.”

People should show love to others out of love for Christ. Lately you seem to want to manifest this sentimental self-righteousness baptized in progressive liberalism and cultural marxism that you seem to mistake for piety.

The church has had enormous problems in the past over the two kingdoms debate and role of Christian in public square. Martin Luther and John MacArthur would misguidedly abdicate the public square. Whereas, Russell Moore would not only surrender it to the political Left, but he would then sanctify the Left with his holy water and sentimental rhetoric.

Tonight, I will pray you quit thinking in this vein. You should give blogging a rest for a while and focus on private devotionals.

Pray for politicians by all means. But Dietrich Bonhoeffer was not giving sermons on 1 Tim. 2:1-2 when the Fuhrer was at the height of his power anymore than John of Patmos would do so during the reign of Domitian and Nero. To everything there is a season.
Dave November 22nd, 2012 at 7:07 pm
I say God do not bless him. His policies are bloodthirsty and dehumanizing.
Gary S. Woodard December 2nd, 2012 at 1:21 pm
Dr. Moore:
I couldn’t disagree more. The office of the President of the United States deserves honor and respect; however, Pres. Obama does not. His deeds have shamed the office.
Christen Anthony Corl December 30th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
The author of this article has taken a very biblical stance and may not be the popular one.
Returning to not worrying about anything but praying.
So many want to rant and rave, pounding their chest in anger about this election. I did not vote for this president but pray for him and all that claim to serve this great nation. Remembering who is in charge ultimately and seek Him. I try to pray constantly that He reveal my heart to me and take responsibility for my relationship with Him. It is all to easy for me to look outward and blame those who rule over me. It is much more difficult thing to humble myself and seek Gods will.

Anytime I have experienced anger at another human being(believe me I have had some serious reasons), I pray for that individual, begrudgingly at first, but in the end when I begin to mean it(usually about a week)things begin to happen that are unexplainable and wonderful. Being set free is a very addictive practice .

Anyone who says we should not pray for this administration is taking a non-biblical humanistic self righteous stance and diminishing the one who made us.

But this is just my opinion based on knowing who made me.

Populate opinion does not dictate truth
-evo-

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