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Faith

Joel Osteen Explains Why He Won’t Talk Partisan Politics (Plus: See His Advice for Obama & Romney)

Sep. 19, 2012 9:58am Billy Hallowell

Televangelist Joel Osteen, known for his positive messaging, isn’t one to endorse political candidates. In fact, in an exclusive interview with TheBlaze earlier this summer, he explained that doing so tends to be divisive — something he’s looking to avoid.

Joel Osteen Explains Why He Doesnt Talk Partisan Politics

Joel Osteen (Photo Credit: TheBlaze)

In an interview with “CBS This Morning” this week, Osteen delved deeper into his reasoning for avoiding politics from the pulpit. Feeling as though he’s called to reach the public at large — and considering the divisive nature of the current political environment – the faith leader isn’t looking to drive a wedge between Americans.

“You start dividing yourself saying, ‘I’m a Democrat,’ ‘Republican,’ whatever, 50 percent immediately don’t agree,” Osteen said in the CBS interview. “And I want to throw a broad message of hope to everyone, not somebody turn me off because of my political preference.”

Considering that a Gallup poll released on Tuesday found 47 percent of American voters supporting Obama and 46 percent opting for Romney, Osteen’s fears are legitimate. As noted by CBS, 10 million Americans watch the popular pastor on television each week and 43,000 parishioners attend Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, where he is senior pastor. Rather than losing a chunk of this massive audience, he opts to put his political views on the back-burner.

While he framed the current battle for the White House as “interesting,” he also said that he admires both President Barack Obama and Republican contender Mitt Romney. Keeping with his theme of not endorsing candidates or parties, the preacher encouraged people to “pray for our leaders,” while also urging the candidates, themselves, to keep the campaign “as civil as possible.”

Watch Osteen’s comments, below:

“I always like—doesn’t always happen—but to take the high road,” Osteen said. “Let’s treat each other with respect and the honor that every person deserves. It gets heated. People are passionate about politics.”

But don’t take his apathy to mean that he isn’t planning to cast a vote in November. Not only is Osteen heading to the polls, but he’s also encouraging others to do the same. Regardless of whom one supports, though, he encouraged Americans to support the man who ends up being victorious.

“Once we vote, let’s swallow the pride and support who is in office and pray for them and appreciate their service,” he continued.

These comments come after Osteen proclaimed back in April that he believes both Obama and Romney are Christians. The preacher also delved into the Mormon faith, claiming that the key indicator that would classify an individual a Christian is whether he or she embraces Jesus Christ as the son of God — a litmus test that both candidates pass.

Osteen’s new book “I Declare” was released on Tuesday.

(H/T: CBS News via KHOU)

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Comments (131)

microace
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:12pm
Ok Joel, so let’s be hypothetical here, if the Left wanted all the Jews killed, and the Right wanted all the Muslims killed. what would be your position? Kill half the Jews and Half the Muslims? Geez, Joel do you really have any faith at all? This guy is a joke all he cares about is money.

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- tenn2113
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 2:56pm
  This guy is a real idiot! He doesn’t know the Bible other than what it takes to draw in the money. That is all he is about. If Obama is a christian I’m a donkey. He is sticking his head in the sand not wanting to insult the ingellegence of anyone on either side of the fence scared of loosing the money they send in. He is not even luke wanm…………. God have mercy on his soul.
  
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- wrburton
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 4:53pm
  Sorry, man. But that is a terrible comparison. Remember when they attempted to draw Jesus into politics with the question about paying taxes… His answer was simple. He took a coin and asked the questioner whose face was on the coin…. When the guy answered, “Caesar’s”, Jesus just said, “Render to Caesar that which is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s”.. He didn’t rail on what a bad guy Caesar was or his policies… Which by the way, were a LOT more totalitarian than anything we’re dealing with…. The worst he ever said about a government official was when he called Herod,(who, by the way, beheaded Jesus’ cousin) a “fox”. No where in the New Testament does it tell us to condemn our governors or rulers. Instead, we’re told to pray for them. Given his calling as a minister to reach and redeem as many people as possible, Joel is actually right on the mark.
  
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- corbecket
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 5:44pm
  Well, you are correct. Joel does draw in the money. Like a retail business, why would he torque off half his potential customer base by being judgemental about their politics? I’m sure his lack of judgement is purely a marketing decision on his part.
  
  Of course, it wouldn’t do to be judgemental about someone’s actions and beliefs. That would be…..wrong on a number of counts.
  
  I do not view Osteen as a religious leader. Leader’s make decisions, and draw lines in the sand re. what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Joel falls short.
  
  Report this comment
- CulperGang
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 7:01pm
  The Rabbi Yeshua DIED fighting political corruptions!! and this guy Osteen is one of his followers???
  Microace. you are on the money. this guy is a fake and is all about the revenue.
  
  Report this comment
- ashestoashes
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 8:03pm
  RW Burton..The worst Jesus ever called man was a Fox? Better look again..He called the Pharisees vipers and snakes..and he entered the temple and overturned the tables telling them that they had turned his Father’s house into a den of theives..this is John McArthur..noted theologian..rebuking Joel Olsteen.
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDuDN2FtrIo
  
  Report this comment
- bravjim
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 8:53pm
  Unbelievable. You people want to bash him simply because he doesn’t endorse a candidate. Your so much more idiotic than he is, and you don’t even realize it. I am so sick of coming onto this site and seeing comments from supposed conservatives speaking like this. No wonder you don’t like the guy, he suggests that you actually be civil. God forbid Christian folks or conservative folks could learn a little something about being civil.
  
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- SPOT_OF_TEA
  Posted on September 20, 2012 at 1:01pm
  Bravjim….The problem is everyone knows he wants to Support Obama but doesnt have the balls to say it.
  
  Report this comment
LIBTARD_SLAYER
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:05pm
Does anyone [other than the supposed Christians who support him] take this false teacher/coward seriously? I wonder what “brother” Joel is going to say when he stands before a Holy and Righteous God and has to give an account as to why he didn’t speak out against those in positions of power who refused to stand up for the rights of the unborn. Somehow I don’t think his “Sorry God, I just didn’t want to be divisive” remark is going to cut it.

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- ClaudeRains
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:35pm
  I agree
  
  Report this comment
- vanman4446
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 3:09pm
  This guy is a fraud
  
  Report this comment
RealAmerican2
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:50am
Smart man, that Osteen! He’s right to not choose one side or the other ,so as to keep his viewing audience just as it is! Also, politics DO NOT belong in church! We’ve seen how politics in church play out with all of the available video on Reverend Jeremiah Wright preaching socialism and politics from the pulpit, instead of preaching the Good Word. Osteen is correct, politics only serve to divide people, and church is all about coming together as a community and being positive and hopeful. At the moment, this nation is anything but positive and hopeful, so it’s nice to have churches as an oasis away from the reality that is our country’s dismal situation.

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- LIBTARD_SLAYER
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:19pm
  Good point! That is the same stance the Luthren Church took in Germany during the Hitler era. How’d the silence of the Luthren church work out for the Jews, Christians, and disabled living in Germany? Clearly, you and Joel have something in common. That being neither one of you have a clue as to what the bible teaches.
  
  Report this comment
- JoeLovell
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:20pm
  It’s very easy for the keyboard commandos to sit and pass judgement. My personal preference would be for Pastor Joel to rip into Obama and the entire Democrat Party. But my personal agenda is my agenda. The thing so many people on this thread have in common: They have no clue what Pastor Joel & Lakewood Church is all about. I have been a part of this church for almost eleven years. It would amaze those on the outside to know how this pastor and church are helping people around the world. Lakewood pours millions of dollars a year into worldwide missions, provides medical facilities in Africa, has established orphanages, has developed an amazing autism program, has launched countless ministries….shall I go on? I can assure you, the vast majority of those that cast stones have never attended a service. Sadly, it’s nothing more than a page from the liberal playbook. Tiny bits and piece are used to obscure the bigger picture. Regardless of your personal likes or dislikes, Pastor Joel and Lakewood Church are leading people to Christ. I see people in our services giving their lives to Christ every week. I have personally witnessed thousands of people rise to their feet to accept salvation at Pastor Joel’s Night Of Hope events. I would encourage people to dig deeper. Get past the sound bites and see for yourself. In a world filled with Rev Wright’s, Jesse Jackson’s and Al Sharpton’s, we need pastors that will share the love and compassion of Christ.
  
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- LIBTARD_SLAYER
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 1:12pm
  @JOELOVELL
  
  I must admit I have never been to Lakewood, nor would I ever go there if I had the opportunity, but I have seen enough of your pastor [and I use that term loosely] on TV to recognize him for the false teacher he is. Does Lakewood provide invaluable services to communities both domestic and abroad …good! Yet Paul [ Philippians 3:8] referred to everything he accomplished before knowing Christ as “garbage”. Perhaps you pastor teaches that good works will get someone into Heaven, but unfortunately that stance is not supported anywhere in the scriptures. Nor is his belief there is more than one way to get into Heaven supported by the scriptures. As a matter of fact, he is indeed calling Christ a lair when he states this belief [John 14:6]. Now when your pastor, who admittedly says he’s not that well versed when it comes to the bible [ 20/20 interview, I believe 2009], starts preaching on sin and judgement stops depicting God as some “sugar daddy” here at our beck and call to supply all our material wants, then get back to me. Until then I will consider him to be the apostate I know him to be. You know, 2 Timothy 4:3 teaches “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” I could be wrong, but It sounds to me like Lakewood is the perfect church for you, and one I wouldn’t be caught dead attending.
  
  Report this comment
- mwilk999
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 2:51pm
  I disagree with you – God, church, and politics need to be intertwined together. People need to see that the removal of God from government, themselves and life is exactly what’s wrong with America and the world! Over the years and most especially the last few, God is being disliked and removed first from individuals, then in their life and then they no longer feel Godly character in people is important and therefore elect individuals who feel the same. Well, without Godly character, there arises lawlessness and not so desirable traits emerge, selfishness, sloth, laziness which leads to expecting others to pay your way, criticism, condemnation and judgment, dislike and hatred of others, abortion (murder), sexual lawlessness and the list goes on and on and on. Thus we have current situations that are destroying us and our country. Bring back God and respect and love for life and we’ll see a turn around of every destructive force attacking us; the answers will come forth and America (the wayshower of the world) will rise again to her greatness and the entire world will rise up too. Belief in God is our only answer! GOD is Hope, change and moving forward!
HerrHeckler
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:24am
As my Grandpa use to say
“standing in the middle of the road just gets you run over, faster.”

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- LaurenCecile
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:47am
  Rev_3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.
  
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KeithOlberdink
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:22am
There’s a big financial loss in being partisan. He’s a business man first.

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- ambrosia
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:39pm
  Namby-Pamby preaching-
  he knows if he chooses a side, most of the Liberal Bleedia-Schmedia
  wouldn’t give him the time of day,
  to sell his “golden” words.
  
  Rev. Franklin Graham took a stand, voiced his opinion
  and the liberal Bully press beat him up, just like they roughed up Romney.
  However, they are remembered for taking the stand, first & foremost !
  
  Nobody expects Osteen to name his choice-
  that doesn’t mean he has to squirm out,
  of important topics regarding our beloved nation.
  
  He could care less about the election-
  the only numbers that reflect his
  “Do the Hokey-Pokey” preaching life
  are the ones concerning his book sales.
  
  Contrary to belief, as proven in history,
  “Silence isn’t ALWAYS golden”-
  even though Osteen’s Yosemite Sam wallet is !
  
  Report this comment
Baja
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:10am
Come on Joel. Are you a man of faith or a politician? Your unwillingness to take a stand enables infanticide in the form of abortion.

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- SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:39am
  Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. —- Jesus
  
  Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets. —- Jesus
  
  Israel’s watchmen are blind, they all lack knowledge; they are all mute dogs, — Isaiah
  
  On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. —- Paul
  
  Fear of man will prove to be a snare — Solomon
  
  I have not spoken in secret, from somewhere in a land of darkness; I have not said to Jacob’s descendants, ‘Seek me in vain.’ I, the LORD, speak the truth; I declare what is right. — God
  
  I don’t so much care what party he belongs to, but to not speak the truth and sound the warning bell is anti-christ in my opinion. Truly sad that someone who reaches so many cannot speak the truth in love about where this country and its leadership is headed. We need men of courage to stand up and speak truth regardless of what people think or want to hear. Who wants to hear they have cancer? But if the treatment can begin the diagnosis must be made. We have cancer in this country and we need people to start dealing in reality and stating as much so we can begin to work on the cure (repentance). Thank you….
  
  Report this comment
Pat Alexander
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:08am
Don’t rock the boat Joel: Got to keep the $$ rolling in..Anther phoney that won’t take a stand on anything.

There will be a payday someday for the “men of the cloth” that have failed to stand up for the over 3000 murdered in the womb each day.

And these high visibility guys will pay a special price, I think. It won’t be pretty…
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- SquareHead
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:15am
  Actually it is 4000.
  
  I agree with you. The cowardice in the clergy will not go unpunished. But Cowardice is something we see in media, with a very few minor exceptions The Blaze not included sorry to say.
  
  Here is a video contrasting the Marsh mellow Osteen, vs Paul Washer a bold preacher:
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4EjygNheQk
  
  Report this comment
- SLAPTHELEFT
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 8:26pm
  The blaze? Huh? This is a website dude. Keep your scathing insults on topic. Who the hell are you and what do you do? Let us know so we can see your handiwork. Beck stood on the temple mount below thousands of Muslims to profess his support.mwhat theneff did you do?
  
  Oh nothing. Stfu
  
  Report this comment
binks007
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:06am
Charlatan.

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- libertylover55
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:11pm
  Actually, Joel is right. The Church should not do any more than encourage their flock to vote after praying about who is best qualified to run our country. Remember when Jesus said, “Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s and unto God that which is God’s.” That doesn’t mean that the people in the church can’t get involved in politics, but the Church leaders should not be employed in politics such as Jesse Jackson and Rev. Wright do. We all have free will and when our church leaders preach politics over the pulpit that is wrong.
  
  Report this comment
Partysnobz
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:05am
There is a phrase for that. MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. I used to watch Joel all the time, but I got tired of the same old ‘Dr. Feel good’ vibe he puts out. Especially, when Rome is burning!
As a Christian I am wondering where ALL the pastors have gone? Why are they not teaching? You will be hard pressed to find one who is teaching hard core scripture for these times. Hagee is the only one I’ve found who doesnt have his head completely in the sand.
I would not be so audacious to sit as Joel’s judge, however is does bring to mind Revelations 3:16 – So, because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.

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kickagrandma
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:55am
This man preaches and teaches false doctrines.
He has denied at least on one occasion that JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY TO HEAVEN.
I am so sorry THE BLAZE writes anything about osteen except to expose him for the charlatans he is/ and his wife is.

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- Shaqfuey
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:03am
  Way to champion freedom of speech and freedom of religion. You really get this country!
  
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- godlovinmom
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:13am
  We are not talking about our country…we’re talking about Chrisitanity…and Joel Olsteen is no follower of Christ…freedom of speech you say…yes he has the right all he wants to spout off anything he wants..just don’t do it in the name of Jesus.
  
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- pilgrim249
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:18am
  Shaqfuey—Why would an obvious little sodomite like you defend a preacher? Oh, that’s right, you and this “preacher” work for the same master.
  
  Report this comment
- techengineer11
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:19am
  In my opinion, the Blaze does not run these pieces to build up Osteen but to tear him down. The Blaze also takes every shot it can get at TV Evangelist Pat Robertson but it attempts to suck up to Billy Ghraham yet will take shots at his son…
  
  There’s a reason to the madness.. I want venture to far into my theories but the Blaze and Beck are Universalists. Therefore they are not entirely at odds with the NWO types they just degree with some of the methods while supporting many of the satanic and anti Constitutional concepts behind it.
  
  Anway back to Osteen. I was a big fan of his father. His father had back bone. Joel doesn’t one. A preacher in my opinion does not have the luxry to remain neutral. Most tennents found in the Holy Bible are attacked from the left every day on the political field. While one could reasonable ding the Conservative on an issue or two, the Democrat Party is entirely Marxist and Satanic in my opinion.
  
  Seriously what is the Democrat party other than welfare recipients, union workers demanding more cash/benefits, minorities demanding rights/handouts, feminist, and homosexuals demanding their perversions be forced upon a largely Christian society. We will soon be outnumbered in this country and it will soon be time to fight. We can’t run from the truth forever.
  
  No Osteen doesn’t have the right to be nuetral. He’s spineless and he’s in it for the money.. I lost all respect for Osteen years ago. Remember when he coudln’t condemn hom
  
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- techengineer11
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:21am
  Shaqfuey: Seriosuly minority, feminist or homosexual?
  
  This is what is wrong with America today… Too many stupid people.
  
  Report this comment
thibx
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:54am
that’s what wrong with this man who can’t take a stand for what right. in my opinion he is no preacher of the gospel. the damn world is falling apart he has 47000 people sitting there probably just as stupid as him. Jesus did not tell us to pray and not get involved to fight back against evil. oh i forget he does not believe there is evil, everybody is good. get real.

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- Shaqfuey
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:05am
  He is a preacher and his church is probably a non-profit org. As such, it would be illegal to spew political rhetoric and would risk losing the tax-exempt status. There is absolutely no reason for him to do that.
  
  Report this comment
- bgotts27
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:49pm
  Shaqfly, it may be illegal under IRS policy, but it certainly is not unconstitutional.
  
  As in other areas, this is one where we have strayed from following the First Amendment that guarantees that no law shall prohibit the free exercise of one’s religious beliefs.
  
  Report this comment
pilgrim249
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:47am
If he tells the truth, then he loses 75% of his audience and their money.

This little dog is a sign of the times. An anti-John the Baptist, born to cry “peace, peace” when their is no peace.

Born to insult the suffering of Christ, and mock the sacrifices of the martyrs. Born to seduce a multitude away from the true healing waters. Born to extinquish the fire of God in the hearts of men with a demonic flood of empty flattery and a clownish smile.

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- DimmuBorgir
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:54am
  Actually he’s a pretty good guy
  
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- godlovinmom
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:20am
  Judas was a good guy too…so good they let him carry the money…and we all know how that turned out!
  
  Report this comment
- Wool-Free Vision
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:55am
  Yes, it turned out with Jesus Christ dying for our sins, just as it had been prophesied. Sometimes, the good Lord works in mysterious ways. Jesus knew Judas was going to betray Him, just as he knew that Peter would deny Him three times. The Apostles did exactly what they were supposed to do.
  
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- godlovinmom
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:51pm
  Sometimes the Devil works in mysterious ways also..this dude is leading thousands down the wrong path to salvation…are you okay with that…I’m not!
  
  Report this comment
65Mustang
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:47am
Agree with Gonzo, Mr. Osteen is nothing but a health and wealth preacher. He never, ever touches upon sin…he doesn’t want to make his followers feel bad about themselves.

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- neallo
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:53am
  because he reads scripture. as it is written. Galatians 5
  But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.
  
  what is the spirit?
  
  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
  
  SO clearly we must focus on these principles to overcome sin.
  
  25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also [l]walk by the Spirit. 26 Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.
  
  Shalom
  
  Report this comment
terry57
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:44am
I personally don’t care for Republicans or Democrats! God has taken his stand and so have I! I only have one question for Joel Osteen. If you are truly a leader of Gods people, why aren’t you leading, Jesus did! Jesus made the tough choices will you?! Whats right is right, and whats popular in the end will mean nothing!

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Rational Man
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:40am
Not suprising that this spineless excuse for a pastor will not stand up for the lives of the unborn and traditional marriage. After all, it might cost him a few book sales. Smilely should take a lesson or two from the black pastors, like Tony Evans and many others, that are standing up to Obama. Pastors with real conviction. No guts, no “glory”, might apply here. I mean, how could he ever get invited back too CNN to sell his books??

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- Rational Man
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:02am
  The preacher also delved into the Mormon faith, claiming that the key indicator that would classify an individual a Christian is whether he or she embraces Jesus Christ as the son of God — a litmus test that both candidates pass.
  *******************************************************************************************************
  
  Even the devil believes that Jesus is the Son of God……..What a moron!!
  
  Report this comment
Ironeagle
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:37am
Hey Joel, what do you do with those inconvient words Jesus said?: “Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’
(Matt 10:34-36)

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- neallo
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:46am
  I know some scripture too. God Bless you Joel
  Matthew 7:12
  “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
  
  1 Peter 2:12-14
  12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may [a]because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of [b]visitation.
  Honor Authority
  
  13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, 14 or to governors as sent [c]by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.
  
  1 Peter 2:17
  Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.
  
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- LibertyGoddess
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:52am
  Christ can do that, but it is not a command for you to do so. You have been commanded to love your neighbor as yourself. Do you need a ladder to come down off that high horse?
  
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- kickagrandma
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:15am
  Standing with you!
  
  JESUS IS NOT about the “feel good”, tripping through the flowers doctrine as the left would like us to believe.
  
  Report this comment
- Ironeagle
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:00pm
  @NEALLO: time to take a clear stand against this present Evil…there is no riding the fence now and we need our preachers, pastors and teachers to take it, or Joel will lose the country and the prosperity that makes his kind of ministry possible.
  
  Report this comment
rileyp
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:34am
Is now, and always has been a prominent false teacher. Discerning Christians do not listen to a (false) word he says.

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- drattastic
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:42am
  I don’t know squat about this guy other than he is a televangelist but I usually trust my instincts on people and my instincts scream phony scam artist.
  
  Report this comment
- neallo
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:47am
  show me where he is wrong???
  
  Report this comment
- DimmuBorgir
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:57am
  seriously, why are so many people ripping on joel, he’s a good pastor
  
  Report this comment
- Atrain1966
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:19am
  9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
  
  The Good Confession
  
  11 But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness
  
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LibertyGoddess
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:30am
I am not an Evangelist, but I really like this guy. I like that his life is a direct result of the way he worships God. My biggest test if someone believes in Christ is the way they treat other people.

We will never be able to convince Babylon to change, but that is not our responsibility. Our responsibility is to fellowship one another and those who are ready to change will and will join us.

We can fight for the laws to change (abortion and gay marriage) as we should, but in the end it will be upon the heads of those who voted the laws in. We need to focus on loving and supporting people in hopes they will change in their hearts. This life is but temporary.

Be of good cheer.

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- godlovinmom
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:40am
  Thats all well and good Ms. Goddess…tell me though..how are we to learn of Jesus’s saving grace if “preachers” like this dude won’t share the gospel…feeling good is one thing…salvation quite another, don’t ya think…when you lead people down the wrong path, I believe Jesus had quite a few “words” about guys like Joel Olsteen! God Bless and have a good !
  
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- rileyp
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:43am
  Our first test must be “is what he teaches in line with what scripture teaches?” If it is not, then it doesn’t matter how he ‘worships’ or what other ‘works’ he may offer up. Please, and I mean this most respectfully, read Gods word. Get to know it well. It is the only way to discern truth from error. And error, by the way, is the order of the current day. Go against the flow, study, and really KNOW what truth really is.
  
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- neallo
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:50am
  I agree with Joel. Show me where he is wrong? Is the Holy Spirit not able to bring people to where He is? Is God not able to raise up his Priest so that they can be heard around the world? Joel has pushed me closer to God. What have you done to help your Christian brothers? Are you Christian? Or do you just love spreading division.
  
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- rileyp
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:53am
  To add to Godlovinmom, what is so cruel about false teachers such as Osteen, is people take his teaching as the true gospel of Jesus Christ, and are hence INNOCULATED from discovering the actual truth of scripture. It’s cruel, evil, and that is why false teachers will reap such eternal consequences.
  
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- godlovinmom
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:08am
  Neallo…believe it or not…this is what JESUS would have us do…call out these false teachers…devisive maybe…the truth…definetly!
  
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- neallo
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:20am
  again, show me where he is wrong. @MOM, are you christian? all i see you doing is ripping on one of God anointed. Whether you like him or not, he gives his glory to God. Therefore it is by God’s grace that he has been elevated
  
  I know some scripture too. God Bless you Joel
  Matthew 7:12
  “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
  
  1 Peter 2:12-14
  12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may [a]because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of [b]visitation.
  Honor Authority
  
  13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, 14 or to governors as sent [c]by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.
  
  1 Peter 2:17
  Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.
  
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- godlovinmom
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 12:10pm
  might want to look up God’s annointed people…this guy IS NOT one of them!…and yes, I am a christian!…perfect…no!
  
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- LibertyGoddess
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 1:50pm
  Sorry Goodlovin’ but your comments are anything but ‘loving’. You remind me of the Taliban, Christian style. I could never follow your God. He makes people sound mean and divisive. I prefer a loving God who can truly comfort others and motivate people through love.
  
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- godlovinmom
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 3:39pm
  Goddess..if you are gonna profess to being a christian…you better toughen up!!!…When the bible says to fear God, its not kidding..he abhors sin..Alot of christians think God is Love this …Love that..ummm he don’t love sin and he don’t love false teachers…have a good day!
  
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- Detesman
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 4:34pm
  I agree, I don’t go to Joel for my deep theological questions, but he knows what he does well and he does it. He reaches a lot of hurting people with the good news. I catch his sermons on tv and podcast every once in a while and never heard anything that I thought was not scriptural.
  
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quackertwo
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:30am
I have NO RESPECT for this guy! He is a HORRIBLE preacher he is a FAKE because he is DECEIVING his people by telling them just live a good life and you will go to heaven! Do you know your bible Osteen no you don’t! You will be held responsible before God like we all will for what you are doing!

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- neallo
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:41am
  I read the bible. show me where Joel is wrong. David didn’t agree with Saul, but he still treated him with respect because he was God’ anointed King,
  Also in Gen, God tells Abraham that those who curse him, God will curse. You should watch what you say and this goes to everyone else who reads this.
  
  Peace. Shalom
  
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- Atrain1966
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 11:17am
  Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.
  
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- SonOfThunder
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 5:59pm
  He is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Who cares what this guy says. Go away.
  
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neverending
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:29am
Mr. Creep appears once again. He doesn’t have to pick sides because it is pretty obvious who he was a barry soetero worshipper from day one. He makes my skin crawl.

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godlovinmom
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:27am
The beginning of the article says Mr. Olsteen does not support any political canidate…Well in my opinion he doesn’t support Jesus either ….for a “preacher” that is!….ummm no thanks!

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- Texan832
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:35am
  :click: LIKE
  
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CATSUEY
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:20am
I don’t know what it is with this guy, but I don’t like him. I have tried to listen to him but every sermon sounds the same-get your attitude right and everything will be fine. That’s all well and good but how about teaching the Word, not just a verse here and there. No offense, but there’s something about him I don’t trust.

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g123695
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:15am
I have no respect for Mr. Osteen because he won’t take a stand. Jesus was divisive because he pointed out people’s sin. All Mr. Osteen cares about is $$$. If he offends 47% of his throng, less dough in his pocket. Life isn’t all about sunshine and lollipops. However, I agree with his statement that we must pray for our leaders no matter what party they’re affiliated with.

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- Verceofreason
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 1:00pm
  Little Joely wants EVERYONE to buy his books.
  So he doesn’t want to offend anyone.
  This is not rocker science.
  
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justangry
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:13am
Does he believe God gave us rights? I know I wouldn’t be talking about politics if both sides of the isle have dismissed this concept.

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Gonzo
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:12am
“Once we vote, let’s swallow the pride and support who is in office.” Even if that man has positions on abortion and marriage that are antithetical to the religion you supposedly represent? Oh I forgot, you have Nielsen ratings and advertisers to worry about.

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- RIGHTHOOK
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 10:41am
  Yup!
  
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- The_Pointy_End
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 2:16pm
  Could agree more!
  
  Joel Osteen = coward. If he will not stand with G-d, G-d will not stand with him. To do nothing IS to do something.
  
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- Verceofreason
  Posted on September 19, 2012 at 5:41pm
  Mitt, they’re just not into you.
  That includes Democrats, Republicans and Mr. & Mrs. America
  as every poll says.
  On the plus side, you have that weasel Ryan crapping in his pants
  about HIS political future.
  
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