I recently read a review of Kevin Roose's book The Unlikely Disciple. The book records the experiences of a student from Brown University who spent a semester at Liberty University. Roose, a liberal and non-Christian, decided to explore the "fundamentalist" world of Jerry Falwell's school and write a book about it. I have read the book and found it to be an intriguing read. However, that is not why I am writing. The issue I would like to focus on is the reviewer and an overarching problem I've observed.
The reviewer tears apart the book and accuses Roose of going too far with journalism. In addition, the review explains how Liberty is not a closed university that needs to be "infiltrated" in order to be studied. I have posted the link for the review below, if you'd like to read it for yourself.
http://www.intellectualconservative.com/2009/12/01/simply-juvenile-or-a-breach-in-journalistic-ethics/
I am concerned with the ways many professing Christians place moral standards on those who are living lives of sin. As in the review, many of those who are Christian (or politically conservative) are quick to lash out at those with differing opinions and perspectives. I am not condoning Roose's erroneous comments in his book. Nor am I attempting to agree with those who support abortion or other unbiblical practices. However, Roose and those in the spotlight of the pro-choice movement are not believers in Jesus Christ!
What are we to expect from those who have not placed faith in Jesus Christ and received the grace of God? Every individual is a sinner. The sinful nature of man leads one to lie, reject truth, and promote anti-biblical values. Those of us who follow Christ should not be surprised when a non-believer acts in a way contrary to that of the believer.
I thank God for His grace and mercy as revealed through the gift of salvation in Jesus Christ. Through the blood of Jesus Christ I have been led to salvation from eternal damnation and a life of repentance. To God be the glory!
I fundamentally disagree with those outside the church. Any choice or lifestyle that contradicts the teachings of God as found in the Bible is sin. Roose is wrong by making false assumptions. Planned Parenthood is wrong for promoting the murder of children. The list of wrongs can go on and on. The point is: Sinners sin.
The follower of Christ should confront sin and spread the message of Jesus Christ. Such actions should be practiced in love rather than malice. I find it ridiculous how many Christians tend to chastise those outside the church committing sin while ignoring those living in sin within the church. Sin must be addressed. With that there is no doubt. Nonetheless, let us address it with the Word of God and love, not bashing reviews and hateful condemnation.
03 December 2009
17 November 2009
Take Time to Brew Some Coffee...
I am currently a grad student at Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. My first semester of grad school has taught me many things. Whether it be that almost anyone can become a grad student or the importance of community, the fall semester has been fruitful. As Thanksgiving break is quickly approaching and the semester comes to a close, I have come to realize the importance of rest.
The concept of the Sabbath is mentioned in multiple passages throughout the Old and New Testaments. It is interesting to read how God commanded the people of Israel to take one day a week and rest. Some thought the idea was ridiculous. Others, such as the Pharisees, decided to take the command a little too seriously. Nonetheless, the pattern of working for a few days and taking the seventh day to rest appeared to be quite helpful for those who followed it.
I have found setting a day aside for rest each week to be amazingly wonderful. I must admit that I began the semester determined to work every single day and learn as much as I could from the numerous books I purchased for my classes. However, I quickly learned that reading and spending my time in constant thought led to fatigue and irritability. It took a weekend of hanging out with an old friend to realize that I need to rest every once and a while. In fact, everybody needs to rest.
This was a great revelation! Since that weekend I have learned to slow down and become content with not working on schoolwork one day out of the week. Although I have implemented a pattern of practice that eliminates one day for working, I have remained consistent with completing assignments on time. In addition, I have been able to hang out with friends and spend time in enjoyment rather than constant contemplation. (Granted, I rarely come to the point of not over-analyzing everything.) Even the small moments of rest are fruitful. The few minutes it takes to make a cup of tea or brew some coffee in my French press are incredible.
Thank God for letting us know that it is okay to stop and relax. I would even go so far as to say that it is necessary to stop and relax regularly. In a society where time is money and every minute must be "productive" it is a challenge to do nothing. However, all of us should consider the simple joy that comes from relaxing a bit. Take some time to brew some coffee and resist the urge to multitask while doing so...
The concept of the Sabbath is mentioned in multiple passages throughout the Old and New Testaments. It is interesting to read how God commanded the people of Israel to take one day a week and rest. Some thought the idea was ridiculous. Others, such as the Pharisees, decided to take the command a little too seriously. Nonetheless, the pattern of working for a few days and taking the seventh day to rest appeared to be quite helpful for those who followed it.
I have found setting a day aside for rest each week to be amazingly wonderful. I must admit that I began the semester determined to work every single day and learn as much as I could from the numerous books I purchased for my classes. However, I quickly learned that reading and spending my time in constant thought led to fatigue and irritability. It took a weekend of hanging out with an old friend to realize that I need to rest every once and a while. In fact, everybody needs to rest.
This was a great revelation! Since that weekend I have learned to slow down and become content with not working on schoolwork one day out of the week. Although I have implemented a pattern of practice that eliminates one day for working, I have remained consistent with completing assignments on time. In addition, I have been able to hang out with friends and spend time in enjoyment rather than constant contemplation. (Granted, I rarely come to the point of not over-analyzing everything.) Even the small moments of rest are fruitful. The few minutes it takes to make a cup of tea or brew some coffee in my French press are incredible.
Thank God for letting us know that it is okay to stop and relax. I would even go so far as to say that it is necessary to stop and relax regularly. In a society where time is money and every minute must be "productive" it is a challenge to do nothing. However, all of us should consider the simple joy that comes from relaxing a bit. Take some time to brew some coffee and resist the urge to multitask while doing so...
07 November 2009
They Will Know Us By Our Love...
I recently attended an open house at a local mosque. The purpose of the open house centered around inviting the community to meet and get to know local Muslims. The whole event was very hospitable: snacks, drinks, tours of the mosque, etc. Also, the people were very friendly and open to answering questions.
It was evident that many of those visiting the mosque were attempting to convince the local Muslims of the falsehoods of Islam. A Q&A session revealed such motives. The individuals answering the questions were nice and willingly laid out their beliefs concerning various subjects. However, it was clear that many of those questioning Islamic principles were either ignorant or asking questions with the wrong attitude.
For example, one woman explained that the Bible was organized by either English kings or deities. A ridiculous explanation of the canon. Another woman explained that every religion must change as the culture changes around it. She was not speaking of cultural adjustments, but fundamental alterations. Needless to say, some of those with questions did not know what they were talking about.
Nonetheless, there were some intriguing questions brought up by members of the audience. It was evident that some had genuinely come up with questions that needed to be answered concerning various views in Islam. However, most of the questions asked were not asked in a pleasant manner. One individual made comments under his breath when a Muslim answered a question from the viewpoint of Islam. It was clear that some chose to attend the open house in order to cause ideological conflicts.
Many individuals in the room would probably consider themselves to be Christians. After all, this is Virginia. I found it disturbing that questions were asked more out of malice than out of love. Questions need to be asked, but at what cost? Galatians records the Fruit of the Spirit, beginning with love. As a follower of Christ, love will be exhibited in my life. I am not to look down on others who do not agree with me. Were it not for the grace of God as revealed through Jesus Christ, I would be in the same place as the non-believer.
The Apostle Peter writes concerning preparation for defending the hope believers have in Jesus Christ. In defending the Gospel, Peter notes that the follower of Jesus should defend the hope with gentleness and respect. As a follower of Jesus Christ, I am to defend the Scriptures while also living a respectable life of love. Asking malicious questions accomplishes little in building relationships with those who have not accepted the Salvation and Lordship of Jesus Christ.
It was evident that many of those visiting the mosque were attempting to convince the local Muslims of the falsehoods of Islam. A Q&A session revealed such motives. The individuals answering the questions were nice and willingly laid out their beliefs concerning various subjects. However, it was clear that many of those questioning Islamic principles were either ignorant or asking questions with the wrong attitude.
For example, one woman explained that the Bible was organized by either English kings or deities. A ridiculous explanation of the canon. Another woman explained that every religion must change as the culture changes around it. She was not speaking of cultural adjustments, but fundamental alterations. Needless to say, some of those with questions did not know what they were talking about.
Nonetheless, there were some intriguing questions brought up by members of the audience. It was evident that some had genuinely come up with questions that needed to be answered concerning various views in Islam. However, most of the questions asked were not asked in a pleasant manner. One individual made comments under his breath when a Muslim answered a question from the viewpoint of Islam. It was clear that some chose to attend the open house in order to cause ideological conflicts.
Many individuals in the room would probably consider themselves to be Christians. After all, this is Virginia. I found it disturbing that questions were asked more out of malice than out of love. Questions need to be asked, but at what cost? Galatians records the Fruit of the Spirit, beginning with love. As a follower of Christ, love will be exhibited in my life. I am not to look down on others who do not agree with me. Were it not for the grace of God as revealed through Jesus Christ, I would be in the same place as the non-believer.
The Apostle Peter writes concerning preparation for defending the hope believers have in Jesus Christ. In defending the Gospel, Peter notes that the follower of Jesus should defend the hope with gentleness and respect. As a follower of Jesus Christ, I am to defend the Scriptures while also living a respectable life of love. Asking malicious questions accomplishes little in building relationships with those who have not accepted the Salvation and Lordship of Jesus Christ.
02 November 2009
Ignorance ≠ Political Discourse
The Administration at Liberty University has led a voter registration campaign for many months. Several hours from now, residents of central Virginia will learn how the voter registration drive has affected local politics. While voter registration has been the subject brought up at various convocations and numerous hall meetings, politics has not become a widespread topic among conversing students. That is, outside of the School of Government. It is interesting how many students at Liberty simply do not care about the election or, for that matter, politics in general. Everyone has their opinions, but such opinions are rarely discussed. Perhaps this is because everyone on campus has the same opinions. Or maybe this is because few on campus actually understand why they are voting a particular way.
Apathy and ignorance work hand in hand in order to form an environment that is more likely to foster debates between Yankees fans and Phillies fans rather than discussions concerning social issues. While discussions on sports may be entertaining, political issues have a significant impact on individual lives. Unfortunately, political discourse is lacking at Liberty University. For the most part everyone votes Republican and views the Democratic party as a symbol of what is wrong with America. Life is quite boring for the open-minded at Liberty.
Typically universities are viewed as marketplaces of ideas. This is true at many state schools where varying opinions are represented by clubs and organizations. The stereotypical college student asks questions and demands answers. It's not like that for many students at Liberty. A large portion of the student body has been taught to vote Republican and wear Jesus t-shirts. It is unfortunate that many have succumbed to spoon-fed instruction and avoided intellectual conflict. It is one thing to vote for someone or something. It is another to know why one is voting for that someone or something. Unfortunately, most care more about the "who" or "what" rather than the "why." And, even then, they only care as much as they are told to.
Ignorance is a dangerous thing. Besides blindly voting for a corrupt politician with (R) next to his name, ignorance can also lead one to apathy. After all, why care about something you know nothing about? This has led many to leave the church upon figuring out that they don't really know what they believe. It is clear that ignorance among Evangelical Christians in America is a problem. Outside of the church, ignorance can lead a nation to blindly accept ridiculous ideas. Such ideas can lead a government to attempt to wipe out a whole race of people. All the while, those not directly affected sit around content with not knowing about what is going on.
For the sake of time and space, I will remain on the topic of politics with regards to Evangelical Christians and Liberty University. It is evident that many Republicans are in office owing to their ability to equate Christianity with the Republican party. They hold to Christian values, such as the sanctity of life. However, their lifestyles are clearly unbiblical. Such politicians have been elected, and reelected, owing to ignorance among Evangelical Christians. Many voters see the (R) and thing that it stands for "right."
It is time that minds are opened to new ideas. This does not mean that students at Liberty should become Marxists or reject the Republican party altogether. However, it is time for students to be exposed to various ideas and think for themselves. Political discourse allows for students to develop critical thinking skills. In addition, students gain knowledge and understanding concerning conflicting views. I question how some students will survive when they no longer have anyone to spoon-feed them ideas (ie. Parents, talk radio, friends, etc.) Without a foundation, the house will crumble. I'm afraid too many students at Liberty live in crumbling houses. Perhaps we should worry more about the basis of our ideas than the ideas themselves. For if we get the roots right, then the tree will grow on its own. Perhaps we should worry more about the qualifications and convictions of a candidate than the party with which they associate.
The polls open on Tuesday morning in Lynchburg, VA. I'm sure many Republican votes will flow in from LU students. I'm also sure that the Administration will be pleased with how many students showed up to the polling places. However, what has this accomplished? Have students come to a better understanding of the political process and what they understand to be moral, or are they simply ignorant pawns in big political chess game? Go ahead and vote Republican, but please don't do it simply because someone told you to do so.
Apathy and ignorance work hand in hand in order to form an environment that is more likely to foster debates between Yankees fans and Phillies fans rather than discussions concerning social issues. While discussions on sports may be entertaining, political issues have a significant impact on individual lives. Unfortunately, political discourse is lacking at Liberty University. For the most part everyone votes Republican and views the Democratic party as a symbol of what is wrong with America. Life is quite boring for the open-minded at Liberty.
Typically universities are viewed as marketplaces of ideas. This is true at many state schools where varying opinions are represented by clubs and organizations. The stereotypical college student asks questions and demands answers. It's not like that for many students at Liberty. A large portion of the student body has been taught to vote Republican and wear Jesus t-shirts. It is unfortunate that many have succumbed to spoon-fed instruction and avoided intellectual conflict. It is one thing to vote for someone or something. It is another to know why one is voting for that someone or something. Unfortunately, most care more about the "who" or "what" rather than the "why." And, even then, they only care as much as they are told to.
Ignorance is a dangerous thing. Besides blindly voting for a corrupt politician with (R) next to his name, ignorance can also lead one to apathy. After all, why care about something you know nothing about? This has led many to leave the church upon figuring out that they don't really know what they believe. It is clear that ignorance among Evangelical Christians in America is a problem. Outside of the church, ignorance can lead a nation to blindly accept ridiculous ideas. Such ideas can lead a government to attempt to wipe out a whole race of people. All the while, those not directly affected sit around content with not knowing about what is going on.
For the sake of time and space, I will remain on the topic of politics with regards to Evangelical Christians and Liberty University. It is evident that many Republicans are in office owing to their ability to equate Christianity with the Republican party. They hold to Christian values, such as the sanctity of life. However, their lifestyles are clearly unbiblical. Such politicians have been elected, and reelected, owing to ignorance among Evangelical Christians. Many voters see the (R) and thing that it stands for "right."
It is time that minds are opened to new ideas. This does not mean that students at Liberty should become Marxists or reject the Republican party altogether. However, it is time for students to be exposed to various ideas and think for themselves. Political discourse allows for students to develop critical thinking skills. In addition, students gain knowledge and understanding concerning conflicting views. I question how some students will survive when they no longer have anyone to spoon-feed them ideas (ie. Parents, talk radio, friends, etc.) Without a foundation, the house will crumble. I'm afraid too many students at Liberty live in crumbling houses. Perhaps we should worry more about the basis of our ideas than the ideas themselves. For if we get the roots right, then the tree will grow on its own. Perhaps we should worry more about the qualifications and convictions of a candidate than the party with which they associate.
The polls open on Tuesday morning in Lynchburg, VA. I'm sure many Republican votes will flow in from LU students. I'm also sure that the Administration will be pleased with how many students showed up to the polling places. However, what has this accomplished? Have students come to a better understanding of the political process and what they understand to be moral, or are they simply ignorant pawns in big political chess game? Go ahead and vote Republican, but please don't do it simply because someone told you to do so.
01 November 2009
Coming Soon... My Thoughts
In the coming days I will begin posting my thoughts concerning various issues. I tend to spend a large portion of my time pondering religion, politics, and world events. Therefore, my posts will typically fall into one or more of those areas. I look forward to utilizing this space for contributing to the vast marketplace of ideas in the world.
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