(Part 1)
In my opinion, Christians are constantly amazed at the escalating attack on
Christian values and Christian views in this country. Many things that were
appreciated and revered by those who did not even pretend to be Christians in
the middle 20th century are under deliberate attack in the
early 21st century. That which was regarded to be a part of this nation's
strength is now often considered a part of this nation's weakness.
This process gives no evidence of coming to an end. By the year, the attacks are
becoming bolder and more open.
As I begin, I want to be as clear as possible. I do not wish to make a political
statement in this lesson. The concern expressed transcends politics. This is a
statement that concerns the values that compose the moral fabric of a people.
I do not wish to suggest that all concerns that declare themselves Christian are
in fact Christian. There are many issues that masquerade as a Christian concern
that are fundamentally, in basic nature, economic or personal perspectives or
group agendas.
Nor do I wish to suggest that all Christians act or express themselves wisely in
the spirit of Jesus Christ. Too often those who so despise being victims of
control wish to victimize others through their control. It is too rarely a
concern for forgiveness and too often a desire for revenge.
If (1) our model is Jesus Christ and (2) he sought no revenge for horrible
injustice, (3) how do we conclude we further his objectives through vengeance
and forcible control?
The things I share with you today are a personal view. I do not ask you to adopt
my view. I merely seek to stimulate you to think. My hope is that by your
thinking you will reflect seriously on the basic nature of Christianity. What
you consider to be an appropriate expression of Christianity will affect in a
basic way what you consider to be Christian values.
All I ask you to do today is think rather than react.
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