Gay Bishop Invited to Obama Pre-Inauguration Event in DC

January 14, 2009

The first openly gay Episcopal bishop will say a prayer at the Lincoln Memorial for one of President-elect Barack Obama’s first inauguration events. — From ABC NEWS

This is the first of many first no doubt to be associated with the Obama Presidency. Christians, if ever their were a time to humble ourselves and pray it is now (2 Chronicles 7:14). It is my humble opinion that many influential Christian leaders are encouraging the Christian community to pray the wrong prayer with respect to Obama and his Presidency. These Christian leaders are praying and asking others to pray blessings upon Obama.

Congratulations again President-elect Obama. May God bless you and strengthen you as you embark on a historic journey. — Bishop T.D. Jakes

The Bible admonishes us to pray for our leaders. I am honored by this opportunity to pray God’s blessing on the office of the President and its current and future inhabitant, asking the Lord to provide wisdom to America’s leaders during this critical time in our nation’s history. — Rick Warren

When asked “Are you looking forward to an Obama administration? A change?”, Pat Robertson had this to say …. I am remarkably pleased with Obama. I had grave misgivings about him. But so help me, he’s come in forcefully, intelligently. He’s picked a middle of the road cabinet. And so far, if he continues down this course, he has the makings of a great president. So, I’m very pleased so far. (This is a stagaring quote from Robertson)

Note: Emphasis in italics are mine.

The cry from our Christian leaders should be that Obama turn from his wicked ways, come to faith in Christ, and lead our nation as a true man of God. It is appropriate, as many have pointed out, to use 1 Timothy 2:1-5 as a model for whom we should pray, how we should pray, and for what we should pray. It’s unfortunate however that many apply this portion of scripture in very broad terms. John Piper, in his message, Pray for Kings and All in High Positions, make this point.  You will want to read through and maybe even listen to this message from Dr. Piper.

In closing, there is no question, that as Christians, we should pray for our leaders. The critical issue here is that we pray as God would have us to pray. So my prayer today is that our prayers would be Spirit lead and not something of our own invention.

Posted in Prayer