Well yesterday was the busiest day for my blog since my controversial post following the killing of bin Laden! Now to reflect a little bit.
It seems that I did hit a responsive nerve in expressing my disgust over the vituperative slandering of our President by evangelical Christians. Almost everyone who responded agreed with me. No one challenged my use of the Bible, and some even strengthened my argument. Thanks to all who responded.
I am not exactly sure what one respondent intended when he included OT passages about the killing of Jezebel when her executioner Jehu still showed a sort of respect to her corpse, although his “respectful” effort was a bit late! (2 Kings 9). But at least this person responded in the way that I requested - with his Bible in his hands!
One person wondered if I was opposed to expressing any criticism of our leaders. No, I certainly see that as needed. I think of how the prophets as guardians of the theocracy both called the monarchs to account for their actions (Jeremiah, Micaiah) as well as encouraged them when they needed it (Isaiah). I was just expressing my concern with HOW we Christians sometimes express that criticism. No matter how much we disagree we should always give honor to the “king” to whom honor is due - because God put him there!
So now after my brief foray into the public square again, I henceforth retreat into that safe tower of blandly commenting on the meaning of Scripture. Maybe that is the area where I ought to spend most of my time.
In the near future, however, look for some posts on the “dark” side of the normally bright themes of Christmas!