I thought his idea about hard times providing greater opportunities for service was a realistic but very positive point of view.

Interesting video that on the surface I like for all the reasons you mention, Tim–use of technology, call to service, etc. But deep in my heart I don’t buy it at all. Yes, I think that Obama believes in his heart that he’s destined to “organize our community” on national scale. But what makes me sick deep inside is the fact that his public record (what there is of it anyway) and a variety of his public statements reveal deeply held values that are clearly at odds with biblical ideals and historical American ideals. Yet because of his eloquence and gracious nature, I feel he has a “Pied Piper”-like effect on many people, which I believe will lead rather rapidly to horrid social, nationalistic, and spiritual realities that people will either come to accept as good and normal and/or will not recognize until it’s too late.

Please understand, I’m not trying to be an arrogant, super-spiritual doomsayer. In fact, I really hope I’m wrong, and if I am I’ll be the first to acknowledge so. But if history repeats itself (likely) and Scriptural principles prevail (certainly), the coming years will bring about some new realities that are very scary (figuratively speaking; I understand that Christ-followers have nothing to “fear”).

BTW, I also agree with what I imagine others would be quick to point out: certain American ideals and structures that have emerged over the years are already detrimental and need “deconstructing”; however (in a whole separate conversation), I would suggest vastly different ways of working to achieve change.

My .02 (okay, maybe .03 or .04!!). Thanks for the post and opportunity to comment. Keep up the great work, my friend!

Peace.

I’m amazed at the specific details that he gave for everything from the text number to use and the websites addresses to view. Spending the day before the inauguration volunteering in the community – great modeling for our country! Love it!

My message yesterday was on service (“Doing what we each do best” – http://www.oaktree.cc), and I’m following that up today with a post on my blog called “Ministry’s sweet spot”.

Thanks for this link. I’ll include it in my post, too. Basically, he’s calling us to “love our neighbors”.

Daniel

I’m not sure about the “remaking our nation” comment. I kinda like our nation the way it is.

Tim,

I have to say that I find it troubling for a person who didn’t vote for Obama is now getting seduced by the techno babble. I find it even more disturbing that as a pastor, you’re not really using discernment. Are you giddy that he promises to overturn the Supreme Court’s precedents on discrimination claims and will bring new laws that will provide special protection for gays and other ‘gender” issues? Let’s not forget about his stand on abortion and his promise to Planned Parenthood, among other troubling things.

Are you encouraged that he’ll be demanding hate crimes laws which could make Christians subject to penalties? I’m sure not too happy about these things and neither should any Christian. How about “For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and nonbelievers,” were you happy with this statement? He has said in the past that we’re no longer a Christian nation, if you remember. Interesting that he put said Muslims before Jews.

So the guy knows a thing or two about tech stuff; that makes him “Brilliant”? We must be aware of the real issues. I would think a pastor would see this. Tim, please pray on this. I will pray that you can start to see through all the things that glitter. How can you be encouraged by his smart leadership when he hasn’t led yet?

Joe — settle down. You are making huge leaps. I was merely commenting on one short video message. There are plenty of his positions that I don’t agree with.

However, as for the quote you mentioned, uh, we are a nation of Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus and non-believers. That’s a fact. And he’s right–we are no longer a Christian nation.

Leadership is not a position. It is influence. And as such, Obama began leading a long time ago. His leadership has grown significantly in recent months–and is now as high as any one American in recent history. I pray that he will use his leadership for good.

Well said Tim. Facts are facts. I am also praying that he will use his leadership for good. I have already seen him do so thus far.
I have yet to see a perfect President or Leader and it still surprises me that so many christian leaders have become so angry and bitter with this election.

Hello Tim,

Thanks again for your fantastic blog!

U.S. Religious Stats from 2001: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_the_United_States

79.8% Christian
1.4% Jewish
.6% Muslim
.5% Hindu
.4% Buddist
8.4% Non-Religious

Based on this data, which has changed little since 2001, Mr. Obama is incorrect… we are still are a Judeo-Christian nation.

Just curious, what specific acts lead you to conclude that Mr. Obama’s leadership has “grown significanly in recent months”.

Thanks!

Dave – good stats on the breakdown. I think it has been awhile since we have been led based on Christian principles, but there is definitely still a majority of self-described Christians in America.

As far as Obama’s growing leadership–it all goes back to influence. His influence has been growing significantly, and thus his leadership.