DVC2010 said:
It sounds like we agree that the prayer itself was appropriate, but some of you object the event being politicized.
Do you think Trump scoring political points in a church service is a bigger deal than Platt having an opportunity to model biblical principles for his congregation? I don't. In fact, the extent to which this makes headlines also extends Platt's example. I found it edifying. How well do you pray for political leaders? Because I'm not very diligent about it.
I don't think we should be too concerned with optics. That's a distant fourth or fifth or sixth priority after obedience, love, and humility.
This, this and more this. This is exactly how this event should be taken.
As Christians we are called to pray for our leaders, that is clear.
Everyone talking about a publicity stunt for Trump...how about a publicity stunt for the church?! Platt was given an opportunity to show TRUE Christian principles to the entire free world. No doubt millions have listened to his prayer. I'll take that "publicity" to true Biblical teaching any chance I can get. The only thing this country needs more of is more Jesus and his associated teachings.
What this should have been an example of is the grace, forgiveness, and welcoming characteristics of a true Christian church. As Christians we certainly don't agree with everything he does or has done, but recognizing we are all sinners, we should WELCOME with open arms any chance we can to pray for that individual. Not because of what the action of prayer shows, but what we know the power of prayer is.
Unfortunately I feel that aspect is being overshadowed by all of the legalist and "Never Trump" members of this church and their voices of disapproval in that the prayer was done in the first place. To me all true Christians and especially members of Platt's church should be elated with that opportunity to pray for the POTUS.