Hermenuetics

Comments

Please, let them put their marriage,kids lives, and God's wishes for the family before the material world which obscures our relationships with God and family.

Posted By: Carol | May 28, 2009 11:01 AM

From where I sit, Kate has Narcissistic Personality Disorder. She needs a court ordered psych eval asap.

Posted By: Free the Gosselin 8 | May 28, 2009 12:20 PM

Great post, I agree completely! These two are headed down the same path as so many other couples. It seems "easier" to split up than work on your spiritual problems. I feel sorriest for the kids. Hopefully they get some professional help!

Posted By: Lori | May 28, 2009 12:30 PM

Biblically, wives are to respect their husbands. Husbands are to love/cherish their wives.

I've never seen Kate respect Jon. Beyond the "renew vows" and "caribbean vacation", I haven't seen Jon love/cherish Kate.

More than enough blame to go around. Unless they are willing to submit to each other, place the other before themselves, the marriage is over.

Posted By: John | May 28, 2009 1:15 PM

I am sad for Jon and Kate.I wish they would cancel the show and just say, you know, our marriage is important and we’re going to fight to get it back.

Posted By: Lisa | May 28, 2009 1:17 PM

Thank you for this post, as the Gosslins do claim to have Christian values I have been waiting for this counseling issue to be touched. I read Kate's book "Multiple Blessings" after I watched this last Monday's show I felt I should just throw it away. These two parents said they were committed to each other through Christ. Now I feel they are throwing this all away, with out the help?? Christians fall and we are picked up again by our faith in the Lord, Kate might need to go back and read her own book. Just so rough, I agree with the last post about just canceling and saying I care more about the family.

Posted By: Sarah | May 28, 2009 5:05 PM

Anyone of us would appear "narcissistic" if a camera followed us around -every day- for years.
What viewers "see" is what what the producers want you to see. How anyone can "believe" there is anything REAL about the show? Real life isn't edited, sponsored or entertainment for the masses.
Check out Kate's blog. She said "don't watch the show"
Stop judging. Pray for the family. Turn off the TV.

Posted By: Sir Real | May 28, 2009 5:19 PM

I have just read Multiple Bles8ings and been struck with 2 things.

1- Kate's Christianity is neither thoughtful nor transformative. Mere presence of Bible verses, nor the hugely sacrificial decision to carry 6 babies to term does not clearly translate to a follower of Jesus.

2- Her requirements upon Jon, where she cajoles, begs and wears him down to try for more children, a decision that leads to their 2nd fertility attempt and sextuplets concerns me. Why does she assume she has a right to more children?

As a woman who has lived through a miscarriage and now is not certain she can have children, I was impressed with Kate's selfishness and her ruthless expectation to get what she wanted--at the expense of her husband, her twin girls, her parents, her in-laws, her friends, her health, her honesty and even her relationship with God.

God may call children a blessing, but he never guarantees this blessing to his children. I believe Kate is one of many victims and contributors of this Mommy-crazed (often Christian) culture, where children become a way women prove our worth.

I pray for her identity to be rooted in God's love, not in the roles she juggles. Perhaps facing failure, she won't be able to rely on her tremendous will power and determination. Maybe, hopefully, she will feel God's acceptance of her, Kate Gosselin, a woman made in God's image.

Posted By: Jonalyn Fincher | May 28, 2009 6:21 PM

This marriage will never be saved if Jon does not stop hanging out in bars with women other than his wife, which he was doing on Memorial Day, even though on the show, which just happened to air that same day, he said he doesn't want his kids to Google him one day and see all of this...he is still doing it while Kate is with the kids. She may be overbearing, but at least she is with the kids, and has never been filmed with other men hanging on her in bars. The answer to an unhappy marriage is not infidelity.

Posted By: Patty Coleman | May 28, 2009 6:25 PM

Based on their actions, I've always doubted their faith. It seems to me that "Christian" was just another way to make money for them.

Posted By: H. | May 28, 2009 9:02 PM

Ouch!

Posted By: Kate | May 28, 2009 9:08 PM

I agree and disagree with most of the post I have read. Not being personal,I feel if they dont put thier values in God word first they will find thierselves on daytime divorce court TV next. As Christians they should walk, talk, live as Jesus taught them to do, or they will not see towards the end, the kingdom of God. The children are my main concern, answer this question bibically for me someone please.." What Christian values are they teaching their children now?" What happen to the word "Faith?" The children are watching this life of thier parents on TV. And for the children who go to school or church. Are old enough to suffer embarassment and judgement all over the country. I cant imagine my daughter and her husband allowing my grandchildren to go threw this type of entertainment just to please the eyes of TV watchers.They both are supposed to protect, and love, and teach thier children greatness. Where did the value of parenthood go?

May God bless them all, I'm praying for them that God's word wins this battle they face. We all should being praying for this to stop.

Posted By: China Hope | May 29, 2009 6:47 AM

What utter nonsense. These evangelical busy bodies are always calling for counseling. Mind your own business. Evangelicalism is nothing more than Oprah or Dr. Phil for "Christians". No wonder men run from this estrogen-laden religion: its raisond'etre is to help emotionally disturbed women get by. People didn't run to counselors 50 years ago with their family's dirty laundry. They worked it out.

Posted By: Johann | May 29, 2009 7:04 AM

Johann, psychiatric counseling may not be the answer, but biblical pastoral care and counseling IS - for any couple with serious marriage issues, or any individual, for that matter! Within the local church, pastoral care and counseling, church discipline, and confessing sin to one another are not new, certainly not just for women, and are incredibly helpful - and biblical! - for couples and individuals in need.

Posted By: Lisa | May 29, 2009 10:21 AM

The marital issues are the least of the problems with this family. Exploiting children on a reality TV show for 10 million voyeristic viewers should be made a felony.

Posted By: Jon | May 29, 2009 7:21 PM

It is hard to understand why Christians would choose to be on a reality tv show-isn't a trait of Christianity supposed to be the virtue of humility? How about putting your family ahead of your own goals? Who has time to be on tv when they have a husband, house to keep, and eight kids to care for plus church and errands, etc?

Posted By: Kitty | May 29, 2009 8:46 PM

Dear Jon, Kate and kids:

Dear Jon,

You may feel you have had too much responsibility thrust on you at an early age. That you have missed out on things in life your friends with lesser responsibility can do. But, you made a commitment to your wife regardless of her behavior. God has called you to be a husband and a father. Regardless of your situation be the best you can be at that.
My hunch is you haven't cheated on your wife. But you are trying all you can to get her attention. You are doing the wrong thing!
There is a different kind of maturity you need. You need to mature in the Lord. The bottom line: be the man God has called you to be in His Word.

Dear Kate,

You say "suddenly things have changed." Yes they have. Can't you see why? When your actions pursuade your husband to leave you should take stock of them.
You say, "you do all this for the kids." Well if it has resulted in Jon leaving what has that benefited them? They don't need a million dollar house and a college education. They need their dad.
God's Word addresses those who cause others to stumble. The self you need to discover is your sinful self. I have a word for you Kate - Humility. Learn it, live it.

Dear Kids,

Pray for your mom and dad. They need Jesus to be the center of their lives. They need to find the humility, forgiveness and maturity He provides.

Love, Viewer Tom

Posted By: Tom | May 29, 2009 9:14 PM

Be in the world, not of the world.

Pride may be the greatest sin of all and these precious children will bear the brunt.

So sad. Instead of harshly judging this couple we need to pray for them and their entire family.

Posted By: marianne bono | May 29, 2009 10:34 PM

If this family understood the main reasons for marriage, they wouldn't be even considering divorce. The top reasons for defending marriage, as suggested by a MarriageNewsNow posting, are listed here: http://tinyurl.com/laqcsj

Posted By: sonya | May 30, 2009 9:15 PM

Seems like they always get help for the kids, but perhaps each of the parents could use some adult 'wellness' help, like life coaches, so they can figure out how to accomplish some career and personal goals. They are losing themselves and it is showing in unattractive ways. Also, accountability partners--trusted older people to help them develop their relationship apart from the kids and help 'watch between them when they are absent from one another', helping to maintain trust during their times of freedom, so that innuendo of the media can't be used to concoct stories, causing (additional) damage. They can combat this. They should ask the producers for enough additional money to afford the support staff the parents need, if cost is a problem. Time to find out how other godly famous people have done this successfully. The isolation is killing them. It is not all about the kids.

Posted By: PJ | May 31, 2009 1:34 PM

It is not my (nor any of our) place to judge either of them, their actions, behaviors, or words. I choose to pray for the entire family, that God will bless them, touch their hearts and fill them with His love and for His will to be done. All the glory to God!

Posted By: LH | June 1, 2009 12:04 AM

AMEN, SARAH!! I can't believe the so called professionals and christians on this blog including the writer... how naive are you people? Reality TV is NOT real after the producers are done with it. None of you know the truth about what is going on in their marriage. Only God and they do and anyone they ask for help. What a bunch of armchair hypocrites.

Posted By: corey | June 1, 2009 12:57 PM

Posted By: PJ | May 31, 2009 1:34 PM

It is not my (nor any of our) place to judge either of them, their actions, behaviors, or words. I choose to pray for the entire family, that God will bless them, touch their hearts and fill them with His love and for His will to be done. All the glory to God!
.......................................................

We all hope like you do, PJ. That would truly be the best outcome for all concerned. We hope that happens, though we doubt that it really will.

Posted By: Carrin | June 1, 2009 2:01 PM

Jon & Kate Plus Octomom Equals GR8 Case for Child-focused Marriage Laws - - http://tinyurl.com/n89kc4

Posted By: Jim | June 1, 2009 2:27 PM

Kate will never be forced to undergo a psychiatric evaluation unless she is arrested for a crime. I don't see either happening any time soon. Please don't think I would not be in agreement with that happening.

Please, somebody in authority, intervene!

Posted By: Carrin | June 1, 2009 3:19 PM

Apparently there are still people who believe Kate wrote the book "Multiple Blessings." She DID NOT write that book.

Before all of this terrible "noise" started, it was well known that Kate "lived it" and that Beth Carson "wrote it."

Beth's name was originally on the cover, along with Kate's.

However, Kate has a way of getting rid of family and friends, and Kate no longer speaks with Beth Carson. Beth Carson's name has disappeared from the book in the recent printings.

But Kate DID NOT write the book. Everyone needs to know that.

Posted By: Carrin | June 1, 2009 3:27 PM

Two adults are expoliting their kids for money on TV. Save the kids first (cancel the show) then work on the marriage. It's about fame and fortune and personal wants that are hurting innocent children.

Ditto on the Kate needing a psych eval-- she'll get one the day after she cancels the show and seeks marriage counseling.

Posted By: Nellie | June 1, 2009 3:47 PM

I'm glad to see that the Christians are finally seeing the real Kate Gosselin. I don't believe she has a Christian bone in her body, she only used the Christian spirit to promote herself. After all, her father is a priest, even though she refuses to associate with him, I'm sure she is familiar with how the church responds to those in need and she knew how to draw attention to herself through sympathy.
I'm sure she will drop her 'Christian' contacts and her church just as she has done her own family and friends.
At least Jon acknowledged that there was more to life than ratings and money; he acknowledged the need for family and God.

Posted By: Jill | June 1, 2009 4:41 PM

This show provides a sick, mocking picture of Christianity, to say the least. (But remember, the show does not equal real life; even Lynn Roush seems to have not realized this.)

If you really care about the kids, write to TLC and urge them to cancel the show immediately. I did.

Posted By: Dave N. | June 1, 2009 5:21 PM

Thank you for this article. We all needed to see in writing what we have been thinking. Please tell me that churches and women's organizations will stop paying Kate huge amounts of money to speak to them. It is beyond me that anybody has paid to listen to this con-artist. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Posted By: Carol L | June 1, 2009 10:37 PM

These people are con artists and are exploiting their children! The thing that drives me crazy is they are supposed to be the all american family. Bull. For those of you who still think Kate is taking care of these kids by herself open your eyes. They have two nannies, a gardener, a housekeeper, Kate has a personal assistant they have a fulltime organic chef and two "assistants". Why pretend your super mom & dad and doing this all on your own. YOU HAVE TONS of HELP. They make the rest of us feel like failures.....until we open our eyes and see it is all a hoax conjured up for the cameras. Kate holds and cuddles her kids only when the camera lights are on. She's NEVER home! Check her schedule. In one month alone she was gone 25 days! Yeah she's a great mother. A great mother would have stayed in their great house and saved the 1.3 million they spent on the mansion for the kids. A great mother would cancel this now and try to salvage what little of a family she has left. Kate only cares about money. Her "job" aka "work" that she talks about? peddling books about her kids. They are officially being investigated by the state for violation of child labor laws. FINALLY!

Please someone get these children out of front of the camera. Let them lead a normal healthy life. I could care less about Jon & Kate but these children did not sign up to be televised 24 hours a day. They're not old enough to even realize the ramification of it all yet.

I'm glad Kate has experience with estranged family members because in 10 - 15 years she's going to have eight children that want nothing to do with her or Jon.

Carol

Posted By: Carol Carly | June 2, 2009 12:43 AM

The story tells that unless we abide in Christ and Christ in us we will acheive nothing (John 15:5). We are save by His grace and by His Loving kindness and faithfulness we are able to have a blessing marriage. My prayer, may John and Kate cry to God (Jeremia 33:3) and I believe God will bring reconcilation, healing and restored their marriage as it used to be for His glory (Jeremia 33:6). I have seen this happened solving many marriges problem.

Posted By: Sam Mangowal | June 2, 2009 6:38 AM

Be careful not to judge lest yee be judged. It's so easy to stand by and critique others. Let's commit them and their children to prayer instead.

Posted By: Pamel Valkema | June 2, 2009 7:36 AM

I hope their marriage can be saved. Divorce is not to be used as an easy out when things get rough. We all go through hard times in our lives. I love what Pamel Valkerna wrote in the comment. We need not judge the Gosselins. "Judge not, that you be judged" Matt. 7:1. We can pray for them. We can hope things get better. But, we can make the decision on whether they are Christian or not.

I really hate that all the attention the Octomom is getting that we've decided to hate the Gosselins. Their situations are completely different. The Octomom wanted tons of kids. The Gosselins had the twins and wanted another. They did not expect to end up with 8. They know this is extraordinary. I remember early on in the series the reason they did was because people would gawk at them and ask questions. In the beginning it was their way of answering all the questions. "How do you do this?" "How do you do that?" "How did you get a set of six?"

I feel bad their marriage is in trouble. I feel bad when anyone's marriage is in trouble. I hope they can work it out. They need Christian counseling. Doing so does not mean they're bad people. Everyone needs help.

Posted By: Leah | June 2, 2009 9:54 AM

I read this in an ESPN blog written by Bill Simmons, but I think it is very fitting here.

"We live in a world in which all entertainment is chewed up and spat out. We milk public figures like cows, and when they're out of milk, we tip them over and move on. Quickly. It's not just that we need to see everything 'jump the shark' that bothers me. It's also that so many of us are gleeful about pointing out that something or someone we once loved has outlived his usefulness."

I fear this is what we're doing with the Gosselins.

Posted By: Leah | June 2, 2009 10:38 AM

The Gosselins use Christianity like they use their children - to raise cash for their upscale lifestyle.

Posted By: joanne | June 2, 2009 4:28 PM

I have been reading a lot of comments about the marital problems Jon and Kate Gosselin are going through. I would like to ask those on the outside looking in not to be quick to judge. No one knows but those two people what is going on and why.

I give Jon and Kate both a lot of credit for allowing the reality show to film them. I have read it is two hours a couple of times a week, minimal exposure. Exploitation? That's a harsh term.

The show has allowed this extraordinary family exposure to places they would never have been able to experience, and provided for them in an abundant way. Thank God! Is there something wrong with that? I have a feeling they will ultimately work it out. It's their journey, let's not be so critical.

Posted By: A Loving Fan | June 2, 2009 7:48 PM

We must judge the household of God so He doesn't...what we must be careful not to do is to judge with self-righteousness and hypocrisy. So, let me be the first to admit that I am out of stones to throw and won't go looking for another pile. Mercy triumphs over judgement. Please lift up this family to our loving heavenly Father and pray for miracle intervention for the marriage, Kate and Jon, and for the kids.

Christians sure are good at eating their own, especially when they see weakness. It really is disgusting. We elevate and then throttle the crud out of those that disappoint us. "How dare Kate and Jon not be authentic Christians!" some might say, as they turn the channel looking for another show to watch...

Posted By: David Jones | June 2, 2009 8:17 PM

My heart goes out to this couple who have been blinded by Satan's desire to destroy their marriage. As a person who has at times seen herself and her own marital problems played out in some of the episodes, I will choose to pray that their eyes will be opened and that they will renew their relationship with God and each other. Only God's mercy and grace will make this right.

Posted By: Sue | June 2, 2009 9:41 PM

Having not viewed the episode I was saddened to hear of the impending marriage breakup; this struck a personal cord with me as I too was in a similar situation 16 years ago. It was only by God's grace, a change in heart, attitude and forgiveness that our marriage was restored and is stronger than it ever has been. Rather than point a finger at Jon and Kate for their decision to have multiple births or marriage difficulties, we should turn off our T.V's (after all isn't all just Hollywood?) and pray for them - God is the orchestrater of marriages and only He can save them! Nothing is impossible with God!

Posted By: Anne Lockhart | June 2, 2009 9:57 PM

Three things:
1. Pray for them.
2. Ask yourself, "How would my life look on a tv show and in the tabloids?"
3. Pray for yourself!

Posted By: Carol | June 3, 2009 7:33 AM

Dear Jon & Kate,
God, your Maker, "hates" divorce (Malachi 2:16)!
God loves you immensely. Please choose to do
what pleases your God... not yourselves! Our
own desires get in the way of God's desires for us.
You have a platform right now. Use it to tell the watching
world of God's greatness!! God will bless you.

Posted By: cj | June 3, 2009 8:45 AM

Dear Editor,
I am very saddened by the debacle of "Jon&Kate plus eight"
has become. I am not sure what TLC had in mind when they first put this mini series together,but I would urge them to end it now before the shark that got into their fish bowl devours them all.The price of fame and notoriety can cost this family all that is of real value.
I have not been watching every episode, but I have not seen the evidence of God in their lives, when I have watched. I do know they desperately need Him now to help get their lives back on track.It is not just a marriage at stake , but eight young lives which will surely be affected. Please Jon and Kate put your needs and wants aside and do what is best for your children.
A mother of twelve

Posted By: Anonymous | June 3, 2009 9:02 AM

While negative news and gossip swirls around the web about Jon & Kate Gosselin and their family, a new blog is joining the ranks of those praying for this couple and their family - JonandKatePrayers.com. The purpose of this blog is to refocus attention on praying for this couple, their marriage, and their family's healing.

Featured also are many resources and tools to help strengthen your marriage.

JonandKatePrayers.com

Posted By: Rick Garner | June 3, 2009 9:18 AM

I am deeply saddened as I read the comments of us .. so many called christians....who has not 'fallen and come short'... where is our mercy and compassion... sure we need discipline... but 'discipline in love'... You speak of the 'bitterness that is evident in the Gosselins life...let's remove the 'plank' from our own eyes... I hear a lot of bitterness coming from many of us who are christians... remember... as you judge.. with the same measure God will judge us....Please... lets 'humble ourselves'.. and pray for the restoration of this beautiful family...

Posted By: Janyce | June 3, 2009 9:33 AM

Thank you for a much more useful article that isn't full of wild blaming and "I told you so's". Thank you for pointing out that marriage troubles like these are painfully prevalent and there are difficult and yet possibly saving answers. Thank you for not chiming in on how the children don't deserve to have divorced or messy parents. Which children DO? It is a sad reality of life. We'll all just keep praying for God to strengthen the family and for His name to be glorified.

Posted By: Jennifer Armerding | June 3, 2009 9:34 AM

I am sad that in none of these remarks did I see a Biblical mandate for respect for the husband, of which she has none apparently. I also did not see the issue of why not adopt (which I did) if you want more kids and you are not naturally getting pregnant? What if everyone had fertility treatments and no one adopted? God mandates us to care for widows and orphans in the book of James. Secondly, my life would not be perfect if I had a camera on me, but it would not be that for sure. It would show someone who put others first, who maybe spend too much time on the internet and drank too many sodas, and sometimes lost her temper, but it would also show someone who put her husband and children first, tried to teach Biblical lessons, and tried to teach my children respect for my husband instead of always arguing with him. Maybe he is in bars because he was not given his appropriate place of being loved and respected as a husband in this family.

Posted By: MA | June 3, 2009 10:12 AM

Thank you for the last commment of:
Three Things:
1. Pray for them.
2. Ask yourself, "How would my life look on a tv show and in the tabloids?"
3. Pray for yourself!

This is said very well. Just because they have put themselves into the media realm does not give everyone a free ticket to judge them. Be a christian brother or sister and talk to them face to face, not post negative judgements against them on a website.

Posted By: Stacy | June 3, 2009 11:40 AM

Wow! I never understood why I've heard people say they don't go to church because of all the hypocrisy, but I can see part of their side now reading all these posts from "christian" people. Too many of you are so quick to say what they've done wrong,whet they should and shouldn't do,etc... Now I don't agree with every choice, no body would ever agree with all of my choices in life either. There is always more than meets the eye when people are getting divorce and people should not be judging especially if they are really christians. So what that they are on a show, it won't last forever and they have 8 to take care of and give them a life better than theirs. I don't believe they are exploiting the kids, the kids are getting compensated. They are going places many kids won't get a chance to ever go, they will have their college paid for courtesy of this "show," seriously a lot of children would love to have those opportunities. We need to follow what Jesus says too,not just sling it when we feel it fits to make ourselves "feel" better.

Posted By: Sheila J | June 3, 2009 12:06 PM

Just because the glass house is placed in your livingroom by remote everynight, doesn't mean you should still throw the stone. Any among you who is without sin(perfect)...cast the first stone. I know my life is not perfect and if my glass house was broadcast, judgements would fly. I watch reality shows and start to remember, these are real people, not characters, and it gets sad. The media has made it verrrry easy to judge others! People get on tv and do things or say things most would never. But that doesn't condone the behavior of judging. We need to pray for them. Have an opinion if you must and then pray from there. Look at our culture, it is getting worse. So do the strongest most powerful thing...pray. I know they signed up for this but, pray for them and if you are against any measure of their actions, turn off the tv and spread the gospel or encourage someone who doesn't know Christ. The time is growing near.

Posted By: 1LovelyGirl | June 3, 2009 12:59 PM

My Dearest Jon&Kate

Wake up! Pay attention the Lord is knocking unto your hearts,remember we can do all things through Christ.

May God bless both of you with His wisdom

Joel

Posted By: joel i. catacutan | June 3, 2009 6:12 PM

It is so easy to throw the word judgment around. Look at yourselves. Now really, what are YOU doing? Dare I say you are doing the same thing? Finish reading Matthew 7 through verse 5. It is also easy to say just pray for Jon and Kate. Now really, No where in God's word does it say "just Pray". We are told to love, yes to love. Biblical love means action. It means hands on. It means consructive help toward those in need. Jon and Kate are in need. Those who can want to help. You who cry judgment, are you scapgoating yourselves to excuse your own sin? Jon and Kate have obviously gotten themselves in a bind. Think about it. How do they now get out of this bind?

Posted By: Ardnas | June 3, 2009 7:02 PM

After having read all the comments with emotions that range from anger, spite, concern and genuine caring, I come away thinking, like some others, that we are in no position to judge the choices they made. We have all made decisions that we might change if given the opportunity. Christ told us to love one another as He loved us. Our own lives have enough issues to deal with that we really don't have time to criticise the "speck" in our neighbor's eye while overlooking the "log" in ours.

Posted By: Sandy | June 3, 2009 9:18 PM

My question is where is their Pastor???????????
Where are the Brothers and sisters in Christ????
Where is the Family of Jon and Kate?

At the Birthday party for the "little kids" it was obvious how much Jon loves his kids and his sideways glances at Kate showed he loves her too,but she needs help she is now walking the proud cloud "I WILL BE THERE" I HAVE MY JOB>>>speaking ??????about what? How to be a nasty wife??
WILL SOMEONE STEP IN AND HELP THESE KIDS??? WHERE IS DR> PHIL WHEN YOU NEED HIM??????????

Posted By: ebba | June 3, 2009 9:25 PM

I think it is sad that many of these comments are from professing Christians saying not to judge Jon and Kate, when 9 out of 10 of them are judging them, practice what you preach. Leave that poor family alone. We all have our problems and make our own mistakes, our lives just aren't the ones of tv! I have faith that they'll realize what's happening and let God help them fix things.

Posted By: KD | June 4, 2009 12:32 AM

I am not going to judge them. I am praying for them that they will go to the LORD for healing & restoration. The problems they are facing are no different than many of us - disrespecting our spouses and being caught up with the love of money.

"The judgment you give will be the judgment you get." Luke 6:37-38

I pray that they will give glory to God through this situation, that they will show the watching world that He has the power to heal broken relationships!!!

Posted By: Amy | June 4, 2009 8:10 AM

I am seeing a lot of people here commenting how we should not be judging the Gosselins, that we can't go by what we are seeing on the show, etc.
Correct me if I am wrong, but didn't Paul get pretty stern with the Corinthians and let them know what he thought with their behaviours, etc?
Did he not tell them to throw a member out of the church due to what he had heard that the guy was doing with his own mother? I do not recall reading that the Corinthians spoke back saying "Who are you to judge? Blah, blah."
By (and with) God's Word, we ARE to hold accountable fellow believers in Christ.
If a person goes on speaking about Kate's hairstyle, clothes, how she is dressing her kids,etc, that IS judging. There is not one Scripture I am aware of saying that we should hold people accountable for those reasons.
However, Jon and Kate's actions are CLEARLY visible for all to see, reality show or not. Their marriage is suffering, their kids are NOT having a normal life having cameras and paparazzi around them all the time. Kate and Jon are not following what God's Word states. By their continuing actions it doesn't seem like they are getting any Biblical counsel. They do not seem to want to go by God's Word, for if they did, all of this foolishness would end. Period.

Posted By: EMarie | June 4, 2009 8:36 AM

Is this what our nation has come to? Do we have so much spare time that we give an hour a week to these sell-outs. Wake up, America, pay attention to what's really important in this world.

Posted By: Ares Vista | June 4, 2009 12:16 PM

I commented earlier about how we are called to love and not judge, as that is what Jesus did and called out the pharisees for not loving but instead judging the woman caught in adultery. Opinions were given, which is fair. But the comment from Amy about how we are called to keep our brothers and sisters in Christ accountable as Paul did is absolutly true. But Paul addressed the CORINTHIANS about their actions. He didn't run and gossip about their sins to the other churches! If there is a real disagreement with the Gosselin parents' actions, as it should be, then the godly thing to do as their brothers and sisters in Christ is to address THEM with your concerns, prayers and scriptures for rebuke, reprove and teaching. That is when your comments are beneficial, coming from a place of love and keeping and building one another up in Christ, while not condoning the actions and not plainly gossiping behind someone's back, having judgments and nastiness. We are to hold one another accountable and do so in a way that resembles Christ to the disciples as opposed to the pharisees to Christ :) Email them! Write them mail that voices your concerns in a godly manner. It does no good to tell US judgements, if you will not tell them how you feel their actions affect you. The opposing views are valid and if you feel so strongly, share that with the Gosselins. And remember, love and mercy triumphs over judgement (James 2:13) :))

Posted By: 1Lovely Girl | June 4, 2009 4:49 PM

Suppose through OUR steadfast PRAYER for this couple and because of God's redemptive LOVE for them that they actually resolve their conflict and rekindle their love. Can you imagine for a moment the impact it would make on thousands of viewers if this Christian couple surrendered their marriage to Christ and that He reconciled them on National TV? Maybe a Pastor or Counselor leading them through Christ Centered Self Evaluation and this ending up on TV as a witness that God is the Wonderful Counselor and the one who gives peace? Wouldn't that be a great witness to the world? Love hopes all things. Would it make the headlines and the tabloid covers? Would they edit out all the good parts? You bet. It really wouldn’t matter, as long as their marriage is restored. Our country is due for Revival. Imagine if this were a kick start…
Don’t you want to take part in that by being on your knees in prayer for them? Genuine prayer, crying out to God on their behalf? Let's not be the ones screaming, "Crucify Them!". Why do we shoot our wounded? I said this to a friend and I will say it again, I am praying for them, and I would suggest that you do, too. I am hoping for the best and asking God to intervene. The Lord created the heavens and the earth in 6 days; surely He can restore this marriage.

Posted By: jesusfreak | June 5, 2009 1:39 PM

After watching Jon & Kate for the first time in years (sadly I was drawn in by all the media hype!), I watched the following show with the Duggar family of 18 kids. This family also professes a Christian faith and I felt it was very well demonstrated in the episode where the children's grandfather passed away. I think there is a way to represent faith on reality tv, maybe it's just a rare occurance.

Posted By: stephanie | June 5, 2009 2:48 PM

Jon and Kate plus 8 - - Here's how to save your marriage...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KB5y2itn1do

Posted By: SCB80 | June 5, 2009 4:40 PM

Thanks for the clarity in your article. It was an encouraging read.

Posted By: TIM | June 7, 2009 12:58 AM

Why doesn't everyone turn off the TV and pray. No audience - no show.

Posted By: Barbara | June 7, 2009 6:32 PM

A lot of these comments really make me cringe--so nasty and judging about people we don't even actually know. (Hopefully whatever else happens for this family, these kinds of "christian" reactions don't turn family members away from Christ.)

It's really easy to see what's wrong with other people--it can be astounding to find out at various times in life and in certain circumstances what kinds of failures we all are capable of, even the godliest among us--to which the Bible and other life experiences certain attest. Jesus Christ came for failures, sinners, and those of us ripe with mistakes (which is why Christianity is such good news for us all).

Posted By: Melissa | June 9, 2009 9:44 AM

Kate told Jon he could date as long as Jon showed up for filming and continued the facade that they are together..she ended the marriage months ago...the only reason she's upset is because Jon blew their cover! Pray for 2 totally selfish ppl that have conned innocent church going not as financially stable ppl?? No thanks. Why do you think Jon got fixed??? so she couldn't trick him into more children after the 6 were born.....Pray for someone who will do anything for more money....lie...cheat...steal?? they knew full well what they were doing and proclaiming to be Christians...now..if they start "giving back" to all the ppl they've scammed?? yeah..then i might consider praying for these two putzes!

Posted By: KateCheatedFirst | June 9, 2009 6:49 PM

I pray for them both to honor each other, however you must first do so with your parents. Kate's father is a pastor and has been told his church's offerings of cribs were not Good Enough when the sextuplets were born.
They were probably frustrated with her desires for everything NEW and that desire and greed for "things" has them both in it's clutches.
STOP the MADDNESS.....God holds us accountable for the Relationships, not the huge house, clothes, freebies, experiences in this Life! GOD will TAKE CARE of you ALL....kick the cameras OUT, Repent and take time to HEAL with ALL of your parents, siblings and little ones that are watching you every day!

Posted By: Dee | June 10, 2009 5:32 PM

If anything is being exploited, it is the rough waters of this marriage for the sake of ratings. As others have said, the show is most likely manipulated for the viewers, but it is just painful to see the multitude of magazine covers and tv specials dedicated to exploiting the whole ordeal. A situation that ought to be handled in private only between family members and even some type of counselor is being drug out for public consumption.

I'm sure the initial idea to do the show was out of good intentions for providing for such an expansive family, but as it can be in our society --- they've gotten over-exposed to the detriment of what exactly they were trying to protect and provide for. Nothing can be left unmarred when you let vices get the upper hand. I will not judge their "authentic Christianity", as only God knows their - or anyone else's - "authenticity" and EVERYONE makes bad choices at times...but I imagine it's hard to keep grounded when you become a celebrity and start accumulating legions of fans and book deals, speaking engagements, etc. Too bad their most trying moments are getting sent out for public examination and public humiliation.

I also wish they would put a hold on the show so the Gosselin's can get back their much needed privacy to work out their marriage and grasp onto their remaining dignity.

IMHO --- I most admire the Duggar's for seeming to maintain their modest, down-to-earth selves despite all of their own respective media attention. Perhaps they can offer some prayers and advice to the Gosselins.

Posted By: Jo | June 10, 2009 7:27 PM

I would like to make a bold and very true statement..." judge not" We can comment but remember not to judge. there is a fine line between the two i believe. I pray... as i hope you all do for this family. they may or may not be christains but it is not for us to decide. We all fall short of perfection and that makes us no less christain. pray for them and hold them close in our hearts ... thank you all ...

Posted By: Roxanne | June 11, 2009 2:07 PM

Wow. Some of these posts were really genuine and truly yearned for the unity of this family. All the other ones (including the blogger) sit in judgment. Yuck. Who are we to say that we wouldn't have made the same choices were our circumstances the exact same? What is done is done. We need to be asking how can we be praying for this family now. Would Jesus be blogging and commenting about how this family failed Him and His Church? I think not.

Posted By: Beckee | June 15, 2009 11:19 AM

Jon and Kate you both always profess you will do what is best for our kids. Its always been about the kids. The kids are the most important part of all of this. If these statements are true. Then stop all of it. and focus on your family and not everything else. I am a teacher and just this year in a Christian School I had two children going through divorce. The most painful thing I heard from my student was. Yeah I am ok, they have both moved on and now i have to. Thats just it the adults make the mess and move on and then the kids bounce back and forth and suffer greatly while their parent move on.

Step up get into some Christian counseling NO CAMERA'S and truly put what is best for the children to work.

You have no idea how many brothers and sisters in Christ are praying for you
In His Love
Debra

Posted By: debra barnett | June 15, 2009 10:06 PM

Posted By: Carol | May 28, 2009 11:01 AM

From where I sit, Kate has Narcissistic Personality Disorder. She needs a court ordered psych eval asap.
.......................................

Carol, what would a court ordered psych eval be useful for? Court ordered evals are only if a person has been arrested. We already know she is narcissistic and obsessed with her feelings of grandeur, etc. She has not been arrested and it is highly unlikely she will be, unless she does do something that is against the law.

Sure, she is nasty, mean, hateful and disgusting, as well as greedy, dishonest, a terrible wife and mother, but so far, those qualities do not prove she is a criminal. But that is not saying she can't be arrested at some time in the future, if she is actually caught breaking the law.

Posted By: carrin | June 18, 2009 11:23 AM

I'm so sorry to seen son many Pharisees commenting. Reality shown means real people in real places. Not 10 unrelated people pretending to be Jon and Kate and their family. Their real house rather than a set on a soundstage. The Proverbs 31 woman had many "maidens". I read that their church abandoned them. Aaden said, "My girlfriend's coming over" to his crooked house. Did he see Deanna lying on his lawn in her bikini talking to Jon.? Kate must protect them from seeing Jon smoking pot at the garage door and being intimate with one of the "maidens". I feel sorry for y'all. These are not normal issues, and not caused by the show. Jon had no job or ambition when they met by his own words. His words now saying he's "excited" about his new life at only 32 while sporting his new pierced ears and earrings, slurring his words and showing off Deanna as they sit in the bleachers together in Utah on Kates birthday. You apparently didn't see their trip to Disney where he talks HATEFUL to Kate 10 times, and her reaction is shown and she's kind. I've heard her say tht TLC sometimes shows a "meltdown" of hers as a highlight when in fact it isn't. Also, most of those aren't being unkind to Jon, simply expressing the panic attacks of OCD which is NOT A CRIME, but a disorder. Add up 100 shows at 30 minutes of which 10 minutes are commercials. That leaves 20 minutes of which about 10 are couch talk. That leaves actual FILM OF THE FAMILY SOME OF WHICH DOESN'T SHOW THE KIDS at no more than 10 minutes per episode!!!! Wake up folks. 100 shows times 20 minutes of film is 2000 minutes or 33 1/3 hours of which no more than half can be the kids, so 17 hours of the kids in 5 years is what has been broadcast!!!!!!!!!!! So even though the cameras are there 2-3 hours, 2-3 times a week....all edited down to 17 hours over a 5 year period. Do the math....NOT EVEN 4 HOURS OF ACTUAL FILM A YEAR BEING SHOWN OF THE KIDS!!!! They are playing, eating, etc. not doing child LABOR. It is SUCH a bad testimony for you all to answer a matter "before you hear it". As the Bible says a person who does that is a FOOL! MMMMM..... Let's each get our OWN houses in order, and pray for yourself as well as others. It is no wonder people don't want to be Christians. Christians are not PERFECT, just FORGIVEN!!!!!!

Posted By: Sarah | June 29, 2009 11:27 PM

I know that were not suppose to cast stones. My 10 year old daughter saw her on tv. Her peers use to talk about them in school. I watched a few episodes with her and could not believe this was a godly women. Now when i see articles about her on the internet especially her sister-in-law Jodi I hear that they have to film for hours just to get 30 minutes of viewable airtime. Her behavior is questionable and the TLC staff has moral problems with her behavior. She is our role model? We look up to her? We need to pray for ourselves that we allow someone like that into our lives and betray us. She is doing this for the almighty dollar. Lord hear our prayers, Please cancel her show, please have her see the eyes of her children and her husband. Show her the light. Give her the grace of god.

Posted By: Liz G MIlwaukee wi | July 3, 2009 9:34 PM

Seems pretty clear that Jon needs to dump his anger: http://www.jonandkateprayers.com/2009/08/dump-your-anger-jon.html

Posted By: Rick Garner | August 27, 2009 1:08 AM

Before I got married we had a number of really helpful meetings with the Church which taught us that we hadn't "failed" if we had a dispute, and how to quickly resolve it before the problem escalates. It was really helpful stuff. But doing this on TV is kind of shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted. They need councilling, now!

Posted By: CMS | January 19, 2010 3:29 AM

Post a comment:

Name:

Email Address:

URL:

Remember Me?

Comments: (you may use HTML tags for style)

Verification (needed to reduce spam):

Botox: A Threat to Our National Security

Saving the Life of a Shaken Baby

Is Self-Promotion Sinful?

When to Leave if You Can't Cleave

Reading to Enrich a Child's Soul

A Walk to Beautiful: A Must-See Film

Shaunti Feldhahn: What Hinders Women at Work

In Iran, a Covert Mission to Bring Women to Jesus

Women at Halftime: Where to Go Next?

Iris Robinson, Jesus Loves You More Than You Will Know