Faith

Christian Pastor Rick Warren Tweets, Then Deletes Politically-Charged Debt Ceiling Jab

Rick Warren is an author, megachurch pastor and well-known figure in both faith and social service circles. Additionally, he’s an active Twitter user. The revered reverend regularly takes to his micro-blog to share his thoughts on faith, service to the poor and plenty more. It was one of his political Tweets, though, that had the blogosphere buzzing yesterday. According to NewportBeachPatch:

Political blogs are all atwitter about a tweet sent from the account of Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church, implying opposition to higher taxes for the rich.

“HALF of America pays NO taxes. Zero,” Warren tweeted. “So they’re happy for tax rates to be raised on the other half that DOES pay taxes.”

Christian Pastor Rick Warren Tweets About Taxes Then Deletes Message

It didn’t take long for bloggers and journalists to respond to the politically-charged Tweet. Yesterday, Politico covered Warren‘s take on taxes and the message’s subsequent deletion. While Politico was diplomatic in its article, the left-leaning blog Wonkette engaged in name calling and flew off the handle with the following response:

Evangelical megachurch pastor Rick Warren, whom you may remember as the official evangelical homophobe schlub selected to give the invocation at Obama’s inauguration, thought fit to weigh in on the debt ceiling debate. How does Jesus feel about taxes, Rick?

After Warren deleted the controversial Tweet, he then posted a response to another Twitter user, @Karoli. He wrote, “@Karoli You are 100% right! It did sound mean,” likely referring to the tone of his initial message about tax rates.

Christian Pastor Rick Warren Tweets About Taxes Then Deletes Message

Another Twitter user (@lshadgett) whose public name is Lane Shadgett and who describes himself as “a screenwriter in Hollywood, a political junkie, a Pittsburgh sports enthusiast, and a very bad surfer,” sent the following Tweet:

Christian Pastor Rick Warren Tweets About Taxes Then Deletes MessageWarren‘s first Tweet was likely a response to President Barack Obama’s speech on Monday. The Huffington Post provides a recap:

Obama‘s speech on the debt ceiling called into question the Republican Party’s insistence that a new debt ceiling deal simply cut spending, not increase revenue through new taxes. The President framed the plan as a choice to ask lower income or fixed income Americans to sacrifice before corporations and wealthier taxpayers do.

One wonders why Warren removed the Tweet. It probably would have been more appropriate for him to simply address it and apologize — if he felt such a move was necessary. Or, simply own the Tweet and move on. Perhaps Warren’s public stance as a non-partisan pastor of sorts (he moderated a debate between John McCain and Obama back in 2008) impacted his decision to delete the message. Regardless of the motivation, the Tweet’s removal leaves people, like Shadgett, questioning his actions.

(h/t The Huffington Post)

Comments (300)

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  • Minpin1985
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:04pm

    Not all Christians support him!

    Report Post » Minpin1985  
    • obfuscatenot
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:12pm

      Bingo. Paul never complains when Peter is robbed.

      Report Post »  
    • mils
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:13pm

      i agree with him…
      being a christian or anything else does not make you superior…but when you can inflict your views on people it makes you a devil.

      i agree…the people that are so gung ho on raising taxes…should try paying them…

      Report Post »  
    • Jezreel
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:18pm

      Rick Warren asks Allah for forgiveness.
      http://reformedgadfly.blogspot.com/2007/12/rick-warren-asks-for-allahs-forgiveness.html

      Report Post »  
    • mycomet123
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:21pm

      I think that this is what is referred to as playing both sides of the fence. I’m sure if the Truth was ever told by Obama he feels the same way- although he would never make it publically known though since it really doesn’t fit into his socialist/communist agenda.

      Report Post »  
    • Hollywood
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:26pm

      WARREN is a health and wealth guy.

      Report Post » Hollywood  
    • Hollywood
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:29pm

      Warren is a wolf,in sheeps clothing. He just doesn’t realize it. IF he could give Scriptual quotes, in context, to support his positions I will stand corrected!

      Report Post » Hollywood  
    • Hollywood
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:39pm

      I, WILL know you by your WORKS! THEN: EPH 4:14

      Report Post » Hollywood  
    • DogTags
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:43pm

      Why should a pastor refrain from getting political? Is politics outside the sovereignty of Jesus Christ? Is politics too dirty of a subject for preachers to comment on?

      Christians should be on the forefront in discussing politics. Who bet…ter than a Christian trained in theology to understand how to apply bibilical principles to the political realm. Rich Warren was right. The truth is that too many people do not pay taxes and are the loudest chanting the mantra “The rich need to pay their fair share.”

      Fellow Christians often stifle the word of God because they don’t like the tone. Maybe it was the right tone. Maybe those who are constantly living off the hard work of others need a stern tone to stop being lazy. I’m sure the Pharisees would have liked Jesus to use a different tone when he called them “white-washed sepulchres.” The problem is they were pretty on the outside and full of dead men’s bones on the inside. Sometimes a stern tone is exactly the right tone.

      Report Post »  
    • getalong
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:44pm

      Warren should have never deleted his post. His job is to tell the truth, and the truth is that low-income people PAY NO TAXES, and at the end of the year – get free money back for having more kids than they can afford! Tell it like it is and don’t be afraid.

      Report Post »  
    • US Citizen
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:49pm

      What’s all the hoopla about? This is a true statement. Maybe the pollsters need to re-phrase questions and ask people how they feel if THEIR taxes were raised. It‘s easy to say ’raise taxes‘ as long as they aren’t YOUR taxes.

      Report Post »  
    • proliance
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:56pm

      @DogTags: Warren needs to be careful when talking politics, and it doesn’t matter what he says. If he were to say such a thing from his pulpit then his church could lose its tax exempt status.

      Does anyone think that if he tweeted something negative from a church owned phone or computer that the IRS might come after him? Its not a stretch in this day and time.

      Report Post » proliance  
    • Nick84
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 6:23pm

      Maybe we should take away his church’s tax exempt status, then?

      Report Post »  
    • neverending
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 6:32pm

      Many do not!

      Report Post »  
    • Goodgriefgeezlouise
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 6:35pm

      Say what you think but think before you say it.. Once you put it on paper and you believe it, syand up and be counted.. Don’t hide from what you belive.. This plitical correctness and overly worrying about how someone might think of you for you stance has made the entire conservative population shut up for decades.. Time to stand up and face the vocal minority that has turned this country into an incredible mess in a very short period of time

      Report Post »  
    • crolic9
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 6:36pm

      Sorry to say it is the truth. He should have just let it stay…. He of all people should not be afraid of it because God is watching our actions and what he said was not Ungodly.

      Report Post »  
    • orkydorky
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:04pm

      Do you suppose the founders, who were Christians, were allowed to discuss the equality of taxation without being condemned for it? I agree with him and he should have left his tweet up. It’s about time other religious leaders join him and quit worrying about being black-mailed by the IRS!

      Report Post » orkydorky  
    • tifosa
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:07pm

      Mea culpa day on the right. Enter Herman Cain: http://secure.campaigner.com/Campaigner/Public/t.show?MP3h–91EB-eH60S3

      Report Post » tifosa  
    • MartyTr
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:14pm

      True Christians follow Jesus Christ ONLY!

      Report Post »  
    • Rational Man
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:29pm

      This guy has nothing to say that I am interested in. He is a nobody to me. Just Obama‘s lame attempt at garnering evangelical support that didn’t work……………….

      Report Post » Rational Man  
    • kmrice2803
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:49pm

      Here’s your quote from the Bible on taxes–straight from the mouth of Jesus:
      Mark 12:17 (NIV)
      Then Jesus said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” And they were amazed at him.

      Report Post »  
    • ramburner
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 8:06pm

      Why should ANY right thinking person have to worry about what they say in a tweet? Do we have freedom to speak? These are the very values our forefathers fought for on our behalf! Let the words be said and let the stories be told. Let us have full discourse and when the ideas have been voiced, then let us vote on them, only after understanding the choices. Why do we squander our chances of moving ahead through independent ideas? This is the most powerful nation on earth BECAUSE of ideas that were listened to and acted upon. If ANYONE has an idea, let them speak and be heard. Otherwise, our freedoms are for nothing.

      Report Post »  
    • VanGrungy
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 8:07pm

      Here’s your quote from the Bible on taxes–straight from the mouth of Jesus:
      Mark 12:17 (NIV)
      Then Jesus said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” And they were amazed at him.
      ==================

      The point of America was to not have a Caesar to pay taxes to…

      REPEAL THE 16TH

      Report Post » VanGrungy  
    • Meyvn
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 8:31pm

      Not big on Him as a preacher, but he’s right about the taxes, who’s paying them, and who is and isn’t concerned about tax hikes. We need to broaden the tax base, not increase taxes for the half that are paying already.

      Report Post » Meyvn  
    • nothingbuthetruth
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 9:05pm

      he should have never taken it down, Say what you mean and mean what you say or shut up!

      Report Post »  
    • BoiseBaked
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 9:31pm

      What was incorrect about the original tweet? He’s right on. Christians are required to deal with the truth.

      Report Post »  
    • Doc_Slammin
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 9:32pm

      Jesus Christ was not considered “nice” by the Pharisee and Sadducee standards. As a matter of fact, they killed Him for telling the truth because it was “inconvenient” for them.

      Charity is an act of unselfish love and Christians are called to be charitable to the less fortunate – in spirit and wealth.

      Paying your taxes, as a Christian, is a duty to maintain a government structure, as well as civil society, for things like law enforcement, emergency management, national and local security, building roads and bridges, etc…

      Less than 14% of all federal spending goes to “necessary” programs and most of THAT is discretionary and budgeted on an annual basis.

      The rest is “mandatory spending” that attempts to take the place of charity.

      Jesus said, “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, render unto God what is God’s”. In the United States, we ARE Caesar (the government) and as such, should be separating charity from entitlement; rendering unto the government, what is necessary for government and rendering charity and aid to the poor in spirit, as well as the economically challenged, in the name of God and love of our neighbor.

      Report Post » Doc_Slammin  
    • BoiseBaked
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 9:34pm

      Also, what Rick said is the same reason why public unions can’t work.

      Report Post »  
    • ortho40
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 10:09pm

      Not ALL christians support him!! Why in his book The Purpose Driven Life, does he mostly use quotes from The Message…it is a pathetic book…not a Bible…why in the same book does he tell people not to read The Bible everyday…for his book The Daniel Plan…The Daniel Plan website states that “the Daniel Plan envisions starting a movement so the result is better physical and spiritual health for current and future generations.”1 It describes how Rick Warren “recruited three best-selling authors” to create and oversee the Daniel Plan Curriculum—Dr. Mehmet Oz, Dr. Daniel Amen, and Dr. Mark Hyman.2 Although these three physicians are all involved with New Age teachings, they describe themselves respectively as a Muslim, a Christian, and a Jew.

      Report Post »  
    • RedinLouisville
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 10:10pm

      Please drop Christian thats in front of rick warrens name. Thanks.

      Report Post » RedinLouisville  
    • Buster Hyman
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 12:15am

      Well anyone with common sense knows his statement is correct. Under O’bankrupt we have moved into thugorcracy where one groups votes for crooked policitians to steal what the other have has earned. Seems to me Plato summed it up rather well when he stated “The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not.”

      Now before someone tells me we have a republic, let me remind you we left the rule of law a few years back and if there are still doubters just look at the head thugs comments a few days ago when he stated he was “very tempted to do things on his own”. If it were not for a small few in Congress, i.e. T-Party folks, he would have already done so.

      Welcome to the third world!! Now we don’t have to worry about being called “racist” anymore. Opps, spoke to soon.

      Y’all have a nice day.

      Report Post »  
    • JJ Coolay
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 12:44am

      Not that I had a very high opinion of him before, but when he prayed at Obama’s inauguration, any respect I had for the guy went flying out the window.
      Now I like him even less.

      Report Post » JJ Coolay  
    • Wayner
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 1:34am

      I live on a small disability check from month to month…. I don’t make enough to pay taxes on it. However, the money that I do draw is from the money I was taxed on over 40+ years of working. I may not be paying payroll taxes but I’m paying taxes on that same money once again every day of my life…. I thought double taxation was supposed to be illegal.

      Report Post »  
    • old white guy
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 8:24am

      i’m not sure he is a christian but telling the truth about taxes is not mean. if the 47 percent who pay zero income taxes paid at least ten percent that would go along way to reducing the debt.

      Report Post »  
    • Miguelito
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 9:35am

      Tell the truth brother!

      Report Post »  
    • wesleyapril
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 10:05am

      I am going with the majority on Warren – he is no Christian – well he is a Christian preacher that would be typical of the last church – he has watered down God’s word – and has embraced Islam – I would never listen or read anything that this man has said. And be on the lookout for Greg Laurie – they have been friends for the past 20 years and have teached in each others church – you can tell alot about a person with the company they keep.

      Having said that, I feel we all have the right to speak – he should have left the original tweet up there.

      Report Post »  
    • bugsy510
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 10:28am

      Can anyone explain why 47 to 49 % of the people isn’t paying taxes? When is enough taxes enough?

      Report Post »  
    • IndianaJan
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 12:16pm

      “In the Carboniferous Epoch we were promised abundance for all,
      By robbing selected Peter to pay for collective Paul;
      But, though we had plenty of money, there was nothing our money could buy,
      And the Gods of the Copybook Headings said: If you don’t work you die.”

      Report Post »  
    • LarryofArabia
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 2:25pm

      I support RW. I also support my family by paying my taxes. The truth hurts sometimes and a spade is a spade. Barry has his hand in our pockets and he wont give up until we give in. Screw that.

      The government wants your money, not your two cents. Thanks Barry.

      Report Post »  
    • Boray
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 2:49pm

      Actually, most big “C” Christians don’t even consider Warren to be a legitimate Christian because of is squishy support for conservative values. He’s quite liberal. As to shared sacrifice, he’s right on the money. But that’s not he Obama way. He the classless class warrior. Divide and conquer.

      Report Post »  
    • Clive
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 2:52pm

      old white guy
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 8:24am

      i’m not sure he is a christian but telling the truth about taxes is not mean. if the 47 percent who pay zero income taxes paid at least ten percent that would go along way to reducing the debt.
      ——————————
      lord. he isn’t telling the truth. while its true, many deadbeats don’t pay anything, we are talking about taxing the top 2% of earners. Not “taxing half the country, and not the other half”.

      The 47 percent you speak of don’t make any money… so taking 10% of nothing, is basically nothing. remember the top earning 400 people have more wealth than the bottom 150 million combined.

      Talk about disparity. Its fair to say that those people have benefited from the system we’ve created, more than others. So, asking them to pay a tax rate that is 2% higher, isn’t asking a whole lot.

      Report Post »  
    • sharonst69
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 3:07pm

      On this topic he is SPOT ON!!! I wonder how much taxes do you pay?

      Report Post »  
    • TulsaYeeHaw
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 3:59pm

      Clive
      ——————————
      lord. he isn’t telling the truth. while its true, many deadbeats don’t pay anything, we are talking about taxing the top 2% of earners. Not “taxing half the country, and not the other half”.

      The 47 percent you speak of don’t make any money… so taking 10% of nothing, is basically nothing. remember the top earning 400 people have more wealth than the bottom 150 million combined.

      Talk about disparity. Its fair to say that those people have benefited from the system we’ve created, more than others. So, asking them to pay a tax rate that is 2% higher, isn’t asking a whole lot.
      ——————
      So half the country doesn’t make any money? BULL
      Even if the top 400 earn more than the bottom 150 mil SO WHAT?
      YOU AREN’T ASKING. You are using gov‘t to FORCE THEM BECAUSE YOU DON’T LIKE THE FACT THAT THEY HAVE MORE, AND YOU USE PROGRAMS BEING FUNDED TO MAKE YOURSELF FEEL INNOCENT ABOUT USING GOV’T TO STEAL.
      “WE” didn’t create a system they benefit from. They benefit from freedom, and gov’t is SUPPOSED to provide that. It doesn’t get a bonus for doing what it is supposed too. And YOU have nothing to do with what they make. What freedom do they have that you don’t? Just because you didn‘t do as well as they did doesn’t mean you get to use gov’t to fund programs that forcibly remove their wealth and give it to you, no matter how noble you state your motives. Stealing is stealing, whether you use the IRS or

      Report Post »  
    • TulsaYeeHaw
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 4:02pm

      cont’d

      whether you use the IRS or a gun in back alley, stealing is stealing.

      You just don’t want to feel bad about not having accomplished what they have financially, so you give in to envy, and try use gov’t to correct some injustice that never really happened. You are in your position as a result of YOUR decisions, unless you are the victim of a real crime.
      Stop lying to yourself.

      Report Post »  
    • turkey13
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 5:24pm

      He should read the book – chapter and verse where Jesus Says“ you will always have your poor” and the verse where Jesus says “render to Ceaser(government) what is owed to Ceaser”. This means no tax exemptions for any church. Also, I read somewhere that if all Americans paid a scaled up IRS tax it would pay off 1/3 of our 14.5 Trillion $$$ that we owe. That was the way the tax system was set up – the poor paid a small amount compared to the wealthy.

      Report Post »  
    • G.W. Dobbs
      Posted on July 29, 2011 at 6:16am

      Rick Warren is “purpose driven”.

      Report Post »  
  • 1gtman
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:02pm

    I dont think he was mean or un-Jesus like in his tweet. As for deleting it ..that’s just being human …but what did JESUS do ? Loves the sinner but hates the sin. throw out the bad and keep the good . always .
    I loved it when Jesus went ballistic in the temple courtyard overturning the merchants tables and calling the place a den of thieves. Such is our own government and its about time we turn the table.
    Yes. that’s what Jesus did.

    Anyway I rarely comment, its just a thought . Have a great day everyone

    Report Post »  
    • Bruce
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:36pm

      I am no fan of Warren and find his one world beliefs a bit much for me. On the other is his statement factually incorrect or is it just unchristian to want fiscal responsibility? What’s the big deal here?

      Report Post » Bruce  
    • rlyhouse
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:40pm

      Love this comment.

      Report Post »  
    • mycomet123
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:53pm

      BRUCE, I totally agree with you. What concerns me is if he truly has capitolistic viewpoints (as I believe Obama deep down does)–why do they push for a socialist/communist state?

      Report Post »  
    • JimConstitution
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 1:52pm

      That was Gods house, His Father, he was cleaning out, not the government of Rome.

      Report Post » JimConstitution  
    • DrFrost
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 5:46pm

      Also, don’t forget the parable of the talents.

      “The President framed the plan as a choice to ask lower income or fixed income Americans to sacrifice before corporations and wealthier taxpayers do.” – Obama

      You can keep applying this argument until you take all of there money and everyone has the exact same income level. That’s communism and, unfortunately, that‘s Obama’s unwavering stance.

      Report Post »  
  • Rayblue
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:00pm

    If that’s what the blaze calls “politically charged”, then I have news for them.
    STAY TUNED,

    Report Post » Rayblue  
  • GadsdenGurl
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:00pm

    I always thought Rick Warren (a purpose driven life author?) was a socialist anyway..

    Report Post » GadsdenGurl  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:07pm

      He sure jumped on the global warming bandwagon, didn’t he?

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Hollywood
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:14pm

      He’s a PROG FROG,sitting on a LILLY pad[$ from donors]. The swamp will drain,therefore his resources, as it eventually does with those,who,like him, think the Lord is their strength,and only have to PRAY for the Wealth and Health Gospel. Course they can’t give Scriptual Truth to support them,except out of context!

      Report Post » Hollywood  
    • vennoye
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 6:09pm

      Kinda surprises me that Rick Warren would put himself into this fray!! As a so called Baptist Minister, his “Purpose Driven Church” book recommends removing religious icons from the church, ie, crosses, pulpits, talking little about sin and a lot about love. He is or has sponsored Tony Blair promoting Blair and Clinton’s new all inclusive “Face to Faith” initative. Have heard, but have not verified that Saddleback now has both Qur’ans and Bibles in the pew racks. So…..just like everyone else these days……..do your own research…..can’t accept anyone at face value any longer.

      Report Post » vennoye  
    • Rational Man
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:39pm

      Don’t forget Warren is a proponent of Christlam to some degree too.
      A merging of sorts of Christianity and Islam.

      Report Post » Rational Man  
    • AffirmationChick
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 2:30am

      He‘s also pretty good at ignoring that silly little verse about giving in private and not boasting about what you’ve done. I went to the same undergrad university he graduated from and had the misfortune of hearing him speaking in chapel more than I would have liked (ie, at all), and he generally spent the whole time talking about how “blessed” he was under the guise of how he’s giving all this money away (riiiiiiiight). This was before his dealings with Obama, which really put the final nail in the coffin in my mind. I would love to know about the Qur’ans in the pews; I know that’s true in other places. Look into his P.E.A.C.E. plan sometime too. Had the misfortune of seeing my university sign on to that in chapel as well. Very frustrating.

      Report Post »  
  • biffer
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:00pm

    A christian pastor tells the truth and people who live on the “look at me” twitter site find it offensive. It is amazing that a factual tweet will cause such an uproar. Most of those who complain also find it acceptable to slam someone else who has a different point of view.

    Report Post » biffer  
    • walkwithme1966
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 6:09pm

      Wow what a day – the Tea Party wants Boehner out – Warren has ticked off half the Christians – there is a email circulating on making changes in Congress and Obama is checking out using the 14th amendment to pass the debt ceiling!! Wow what a day! http://wp.me/pYLB7-1e2

      Report Post » walkwithme1966  
    • Rational Man
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:46pm

      What is offensive is Rick Warren to Christianity. Anything coming from Warren is to be taken with a grain of salt. Anyone who is promoting ‘Christlam’ and social justice is not someone I pay much attention to! Especially if he is a “pastor” in a “Christian” church………………….

      Report Post » Rational Man  
  • Gonzo
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:00pm

    Hey Rick, you better speak up. When Obama attacks the charitable contributions deduction, churches will be hurt.

    Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Holly Woods
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 9:03pm

      Warren’s Saddleback Church as hundreds of ministries that serve thousands of people. Money is only part of the equation. Time and talent are the others. Services and charities range from biblical counseling to crisis intervention to providing meals. The focus is based the very simple principle that we were created for a purpose and shaped for serving God.

      Like Jesus, the best way to reach and teach others is through example. As all individuals are unique, not everyone can be reached in the same way.

      Warren clearly teaches that there is only one way to heaven and that is accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, not collective salvation. Sin is very real, evil is everywhere and both will try to keep you apart from God. He also clearly teaches and equips church members, believers and trains pastors — of many denominations — to be active Christians by spreading the word through deeds and actions to others as Paul did to the Romans, and the disciples did after Jesus’ death.

      As many have stated here, Rev. Warren is not perfect. He is human just like the rest of us. He would be the first to admit that. His wife Kay would probably be the second.

      The bottomline is because of Rev. Warren ministries and writings thousands of people all over the world have been saved and thousand more have been helped. His route or message may not be right for everyone, but he doing his best to honor God and prayerfully fulfilling His purpose.

      That’s what Christianity i

      Report Post »  
    • Supertad108
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 9:28am

      Respectfully disagree Holly Woods. Mr Warren is the type of individual Paul warned us about. He is an example of the apostate church. BTW, there is only one way to reach Heaven and that through the (1) conviction of the Holy Spirit (2) recognize you are a sinner (3) John 3:16

      NOT.. via rock music, or whatever watered-down message one may think to usurp the power of the Holy Spirit. Or in other words, man‘s attempt to save one’s soul.

      Be watchful in these last days as many will come in Jesus’ name claiming to be angels of light. But are merely wolves in sheep’s clothes.

      Report Post »  
  • mdlwoods
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:56pm

    And this Ishadgett is sooooo Christian that he knows personally how Jesus would react to Rick’s post? Actually, Jesus would be looking to each and every one of us to dig in to our pockets and food storage to give to the needy, to make sure their needs were taken care off, not giving to the government so the government could redistribute the wealth! All of Jesus’ teachings were centered around charity and taking care of those in need. No where did he say to give large amounts of money to the government so the government could then dictate where it would go (to study the sex lives of college girls??? Really???).

    Report Post » mdlwoods  
  • Audacity of The Infidel
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:53pm

    It’s one of the Chrislam preachers!

    http://www.nowtheendbegins.com/blog/?p=1366

    Report Post » Audacity of The Infidel  
  • capecodsully
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:52pm

    The pastor was correct, there was nothing un-Christian about it. He probably just envisioned the Obama administration going after his churches tax exempt status. There is no such thing as free speech to Obama.

    Report Post »  
    • Rational Man
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:49pm

      Or maybe he thought he would lose some of his socialist friends…..like Obama!
      I have to wonder how much you know about Warren?……..Anything?

      Report Post » Rational Man  
  • Fear The Voices
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:51pm

    Why is it when anyone who is right about something feels that they are going to raise the emotions of the left and their greedy money grubbing sloths, they have to immediately cover their tracks?

    The truth is the truth! As a professed man of God he should understand this whole-heartedly and stand by his remarks. Perhaps his convictions aren’t as deep as he professes!

    Report Post » Fear The Voices  
    • loriann12
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:04pm

      I still say, if you work, but don’t pay taxes (or get EVERYTHING back at the end of the year) and then on top of that get free money from the government (welfare, food stamps, earned income credit) you shouldn’t be allowed to vote. Only those that actually pay taxes should be able to vote.

      Report Post »  
  • Deanna in Missouri
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:50pm

    Can I ask you guys a question? Why is it everytime someone states something that is true that they cave on it, delete it, and then apologize for it? I wrote Pastor Warren an email and told him that he should of stood by what he wrote because it is true. If you say something stand by it. They can’t eat you. (well maybe the progs can but I haven’t seen it yet)

    Report Post » Deanna in Missouri  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:58pm

      Many lack the courage of their convictions.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • An AmericanMom
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:11pm

      You are totally correct…..why is speaking the TRUTH bad…..I don’t think Jesus sugar coated anything…and he never sounded like a whiner……truth has no agenda!

      Report Post » An AmericanMom  
    • Attention2Detail
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:21pm

      Unfortunately, Warren is all about the money. He’s afraid that if he offends anyone, his next crappy book won’t sell as well, or some of his congregation will leave. Heh Rick, The ones with the money that you want agree with your tweet. Stand by it.

      Report Post » Attention2Detail  
    • They SMEAR what they FEAR
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:22pm

      That’s the result of PC! People are afraid to offend others and because of it we have to live and deal with a “tolerate the intolerant” society. I’m calling BS on that – PC is intended to cover and distort the truth. He was absolutely right and he should have stuck to it.
      Christians have been too soft too long! Its time to stand up, not be afraid, speak and spread the truth. Call it for what it is. If you’re offending people for telling the truth, then you’re on the irght track!

      Report Post » They SMEAR what they FEAR  
    • Hisemiester
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:51pm

      Good for you Gal. One reason he removed his twitter was he was afraid of loosing some tithers in his church. or is it megachurch? When one doesn’t know his/her conviction, they ride the top edge of the fence. Always trying not to fall too far from vertical or they will fall off. Thus it has become the norm to spout and then deny. Sometimes deceive. Sorry. Good you wrote him.

      Report Post »  
    • Rational Man
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 7:59pm

      I’m sure Warren is conflicted. What with his Christian, Christlam and social justice beliefs. He probably just changed his mind and deleted it. Tomorrow he might post it again. It is written that, ‘a double minded man is unstable in all his ways’.
      Warren is definately double minded…….and therefore, conflicted in his thinking and theology.
      And therefore not worth listening to…..IMO

      Report Post » Rational Man  
    • JimConstitution
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 1:40pm

      Do remember Jesus said to his disciples to not offend them. There is a time to offend and a time not to. Why offend the wicked that will just make life miserable. Jesus didnt mind offending the religious of that day, but did not try to offend the government.

      They wanted to know, if they were free why pay taxes to Rome. Jesus explained that the foreign pay taxes to Rome, but they where not of Rome but of God. So to not offend, pay.

      Report Post » JimConstitution  
  • moelarrycurly
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:50pm

    I cant believe that Christians are becoming afraid to stand for their convictions. Will we stand by while the jack-boots of tyranny march into your town?

    Report Post »  
    • Fear The Voices
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:53pm

      Think about Germany under Hitler…….

      Report Post » Fear The Voices  
    • Hisemiester
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 6:01pm

      Oh, the great falling away of the church was foretold. When most Christians, and I dare call them Christians, have no hint of whether or not the Jesus story is truth, they have a tendency to believe what appears to be truth is truth. Instead of opening ones mouth and spouting something you have no inkling whether its truth or not, somewhere down the line things don’t quite add up. Too many ancient writings are coming to light that it is becoming more and more difficult to teach and hold people to a false doctrine.
      If one truly believes, he/she must study to assure themselves of the truth.

      Report Post »  
  • EqualJustice
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:49pm

    Sounded more like the TRUTH to me? No one likes the TRUTH these days…..

    Report Post » EqualJustice  
    • Clive
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 2:42pm

      not sure how raising taxes on 2% of the country, has somehow become “the other half that DOES pay taxes”.

      2% and 50%, are not the same thing… so no, i wouldn’t call that “truth”. nice try though.

      Report Post »  
  • bitter clinger
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:49pm

    Thank god for his smoking hot wife.

    Report Post » bitter clinger  
  • slwolfgram
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:48pm

    He was probably afraid he would somehow offend the muslims since he is so partial to them. Could it be that maybe some of them are among those who don’t pay taxes and yet they live in this country.

    Report Post »  
  • Attention2Detail
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:48pm

    Rick Warren is way to PC for anybody’s good. What he said was very true, but he didn’t have the guts to stand by it. Too bad.

    Report Post » Attention2Detail  
    • Fear The Voices
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:00pm

      The biggest difference between Christ and many of today’s so-called men of faith is that they don’t demonstrate their faith….. talking the talk, to a point; and totally incapable of walking the walk. Christ wasn’t afraid to go before the money changers and call them thieves; and even threw them out of the temple. You aren’t likely to see a preach do this today, they can’t be the cause of offense; even if they’re right.

      Report Post » Fear The Voices  
  • Islesfordian
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:47pm

    Rule number One: don‘t post what you aren’t willing to defend. And its best to think carefully so you know it’s something you SHOULD or at least CAN defend.

    Rule number Two: If you didn’t screw up significantly on Rule One, DON’T apologize. Such apologies are the pearls before the blogosphere swine.

    Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • BonnieBlueFlag
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:57pm

      @ISLESFORDIAN

      Very true and very wise!

      p.s. Stay cool up there. A fan blowing over a bowl of ice works well. Also, facing a box fan to blow out the window to suck the hot air out of the house.

      Report Post » BonnieBlueFlag  
  • Metalist
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:47pm

    It has become “cool” to attack christians now. The current climate has the left coming out in droves, looking for blood. I guess christians aren’t supposed to have feelings about current events… even if those events could cripple our nation. Attack the christian, don’t try to solve any problems, just attack… because that’s all you know. Don’t try to help. Just point fingers.

    Report Post » Metalist  
    • Fear The Voices
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:55pm

      It’s easier for them to attack and criticize since trying to use facts is totally out of the question. After all the facts seldom support liberal claims; unless they were to talk about the failure of their own policies.

      Report Post » Fear The Voices  
    • An AmericanMom
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 5:49pm

      I guess because for some reason they think Christians are weak…..which is totally opposite of the truth….Christians are strong, they actually die for their beliefs!

      Report Post » An AmericanMom  
    • mgcre
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 12:02am

      In addition, little do most know that Rick Warren instead of tithing 10% of his earnings tithes 90% and lives on 10%. Look it up. His 10% may be more than most peoples 90% but who with money is doing that now a days.

      Report Post »  
    • AffirmationChick
      Posted on July 28, 2011 at 2:37am

      @mgcre Anyone who has looked into him at all knows that because he can’t stop telling people about it in a way that is anything but humble.

      Report Post »  
  • MickyD
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:47pm

    So the big new here is that Rick Warren is human? ‘Cause is sure isn’t news that those who don‘t pay taxes don’t mind that the folks do have to pay more…. It’s also a good indication of just how frustrated anyone can get with the political balderdash and doublespeak we are subjected to every day.

    Report Post »  
  • the58thstate
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:45pm

    the truth will set you free!

    Report Post »  
  • SREGN
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:44pm

    Facts are facts. Warren tweeted factually. Shouldn’t have removed it. Let your yes be yes and your no be no. No more taxes.

    Report Post »  
    • dmforman
      Posted on July 27, 2011 at 9:02pm

      Agreed. We can’t keep taking care of more and more people and taking more and more from those that are productive.

      Christians need to stop bowing down to those that question them. After watching the movie Divided which is about children leaving Christianity and hearing Sunday School compared to our public schools, it’s time for Christians to wise up and wake up. We are under attack. http://dividedthemovie.com/kelly-crawford

      Report Post »  
  • MODEL82A1
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:43pm

    When will ENCINOM apologize for his Tweets supporting and admitting to necrophilia, pedophilia, mass murder and rape?

    Report Post » MODEL82A1  
  • SilentReader
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:43pm

    Of course, we all know that Rick Warren is not non-partisan. He just pretends to me.

    Now, we know that he doesn’t have a backbone either!

    Report Post » SilentReader  
  • cookcountypatriot
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:41pm

    but oh so true pastor

    Report Post » cookcountypatriot  
  • TumbleBumble
    Posted on July 27, 2011 at 4:41pm

    Another coward afraid to stand by his convictions.

    Report Post » TumbleBumble  
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