Dr. RT Kendall will neither endorse nor criticise controversial presidential aspirant Donald Trump but he said he understands why US church leaders are compelled to air their support for the outspoken businessman.
"I would not criticise my friends for getting publicly involved in politics if they believe, as some of them apparently do, that they are being led by the Lord to do so. I don't question their motives. As for me, I only know that I am called to be a soul-winner not a politician; however tempting it is to get publicly involved," he said in his blog.
There are many who oppose Trump's candidacy because of his manner of speech and controversial positions on issues that Christians feel strongly about, but Kendall said that on the flipside, he also sees why there are those who feel strongly about endorsing Trump.
For one, Trump isn't a politician by nature, given that he is known for being a cutthroat businessman. As such, he is not dependent on donors and thus, would less likely be accused of being in anybody's pocket.
His unfiltered manner of speaking is also a plus for some faith leaders because it means that his words come straight from him and are not a parade of the views of political advisers or handlers.
"He has a stellar family: his wife and kids are happy to help and a blended modern family could be the first family. He seems to lead a straight arrow life; he is known for treating his workers well," he said.
"These things said, I have no idea what God thinks. I'm also unsure what he thinks about the way we church leaders often invoke his name when it comes to political causes. I love America, but I love God more. Whatever Beni Johnson, Jerry Falwell or the many evangelicals who also oppose Trump have to say, we can only pray and trust that God's purposes will ultimately be served in this nation."
While there are those who actively support Trump's bid for the Oval Office, many faith and opinion leaders refuse to be swayed by the candidate and focus on his attitude towards women, and positions on social issues.
The latest article comes from Belief Net, penned by Michael Austin, the Chair of Philosophy & Religion at Eastern Kentucky University.
"Trump appears to be a narcissist. This might work for reality television or real estate deals, but it is not a desirable trait for the President of the United States. The most important moral principle, according to Jesus in the gospels, is to love God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. The Christian understanding of love is that it involves sacrifice, self-denial, and preferring the good of others over one's own. It does not appear that Donald Trump understands this," he said.
