A rant that actually DESERVES the label of ‘bigotry’
Criticizing others online has become a sad staple among too many Christians and ministries in the internet age (albeit often justified by those who engage in it as “discernment ministry” or “contending for truth”, etc.).
However, I believe there are times when it is absolutely right and correct to publicly call out those claiming to be followers of Jesus when they PUBLICLY make horrible comments that defame the name of Jesus (though as my brother Olatunde Howard points out, there is a way to do so that dishonors the Lord, and I hope that this post does not do that!).
I recently noted the hypocritical and condescending words of Phoenix area United Methodist Bishop Minerva Carcano toward African and Filipino Methodists who hold to the orthodox Biblical teaching on sexuality (which my Pastor, Talbot Davis, worded much better yesterday!)…
And now, on the other end of the spectrum, I must join fellow Disciples like Kurt Willems and Eugene Cho in utterly condemning the mean-spirited and utterly unbiblical rant (disguised as a sermon) against those who engage in same-sex sexual relationships by a pastor here in NC:
[Note: As a friend pointed out to me in an email, the title of this video is very misleading (and is itself irresponsibly adding fuel to an already raging fire!). The preacher does not actually call for the death of anyone. I believe he is giving an illustration in an effort to prove his point about homosexuality being incompatible with human reproduction…a horribly insensitive and inflammatory illustration, but an illustration nonetheless.]
As Dojo readers know, I have been involved in a discussion about same-sex sexuality which stemmed from the recent vote here in NC on Amendment One, and which prompted President Obama to (once again) change his official position on the issue. There are multiple issues which have become intertwined in the same-sex discussion…and most who speak out in favor of one side or the other end up conflating them in a way that does nothing to further the cultural conversation–instead opting for sound-bytes and derogatory labeling of those who disagree with them (which I discuss HERE).
It’s hard enough holding a balance between remaining faithful to the teaching of Scripture on the one hand, and loving and upholding the dignity and humanity those who engage in behavior that is in conflict with God’s intended sexual ethic without preachers like this throwing fuel on an already raging fire!
This foolish ‘sermon’ does every bit as much damage to the name of Jesus as the worst Dan Savage-esque tirade…actually, I would argue, more–due to it coming from someone claiming to represent Christ.
The sad irony is that I’m sure this preacher thinks he is “taking a stand” and “being faithful to God’s Word”…
…but so did those who helped get ensure that the Son of God get nailed to a Roman cross.
Pastor Worley, and those in the congregation who cheered him on, I urge you to repent of your hurtful and unbiblical approach, in the name of the Lord we both claim to follow. I urge Bishop Carcano, and those who cheer her on, to do the same.
And may God give us ALL the needed balance of grace and truth as we seek to minister to a broken and hurting world.
…in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect… 1Peter 3:15
Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly… James 3:1
JM
Categories: Blog, Ministry, Political/Social issues, Theological issues
Unfortunately I think hatred and conservativism often go hand in hand.
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/genius-and-madness/200809/is-political-conservatism-mild-form-insanity
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Here are the facts. A meta-analysis culled from 88 samples in 12 countries, and with an N of 22,818, revealed that “several psychological variables predicted political conservatism.” Which variables exactly? In order of predictive power: Death anxiety, system instability, dogmatism/intolerance of ambiguity, closed-mindedness, low tolerance of uncertainty, high needs for order, structure, and closure, low integrative complexity, fear of threat and loss, and low self-esteem. The researchers conclude, a little chillingly, that “the core ideology of conservatism stresses resistance to change and a justification of inequality.”
by Chris Bowers on May 28, 2012 at 8:21 pm
Looks like the saga continues.
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/pastor-gave-anti-gay-sermon-draws-protesters-north-180803508.html
by Chris Bowers on May 28, 2012 at 8:39 pm