John Piper addresses Trump and Musk online

Well-known preacher John Piper has name-checked Donald Trump and Elon Musk in a social media post.

The internationally-acclaimed author and speaker addressed them on X – formerly Twitter – with reference to Luke 18:7 in which Jesus speaks about entering the Kingdom of God like a child.

While making it clear his words applied to people in all political parties and all human beings, this did not stop him attracting criticism online, with some questioning whether he had similarly cited leading Democrats by name in the past.

In the post, a few days ago, Piper wrote: ‘To Donald Trump and Elon Musk and every other Republican and Democrat and Independent, and human being on planet earth: “Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it,” Luke 18:17.’

It is not clear what particularly prompted him to cite these words at that time.

Among the responses on X were posts such as: ‘You ever tweet this to Biden or any other leftist?’ and ‘Weird post. Have you ever heard John call out by name any progressive politician or elite like he just did with [Trump] and [Musk]?’ Another reply stated: ‘What you say is true. But why weren't you just as vocal for the last four years? The sudden change is noteworthy, and raises the question of whether you are being political first.’

Others responded by pointing positively to the opening prayer which took place at Donald Trump’s first cabinet meeting, and which can be seen online here.

Among the more than 500 comments there was support from some, with former pastor and church planter Kirk E. Miller observing: ‘John Piper quotes Scripture *checks notes* rightly says it applies to every human, and *checks notes* some Christians are upset about it.’

A couple of days later, possibly alluding to private encouragements he had received following his post, Piper posted: ‘Brothers seen. God thanked. Heart encouraged. “The brothers [in Rome], when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage” Acts 28:15.’