I guess this post could be a follow up to my disclaimer, but I felt like writing this. I'm reminded of the episode of Friends where Phoebe is singing her songs to a bunch of young children at the library. Her songs are little too revealing for her little listeners which frightens their parents [here's an example]. After being banned from the library the kids seek her out at the coffee shop wanting to hear "the singing lady that tells the truth" Moral of the story: kids appreciate when you're honest about the realities in the world. I've discovered that while many people are just like those kids, there are some who would prefer to still hear innocuous, happy, childish songs that make you smile without making you think about the life.
I guess I'm trying to work this metaphor to introduce this idea: there's a prevailing [yet erroneous] thought that if you, as a Christian, criticize someone another Christian then you're not being Christ-like at all. This is balderdash [been wanting to use that word and even worked it into my sermon Sunday]. Just because we all like Jesus doesn't mean you get a free pass when you do/say something that's questionable. I would expect the very same treatment from others concerning my dumb moves/words. and have received it. That's why, despite a few problems, I still leave commenting open here on the blog; it gives you a chance to chime in and disagree.*
I say this to explain stuff you have read and will read here at Beit Carr that you think is divisive. I'm not trying to be mean, but I'll attack ideas that deserve criticism. Politeness is a Western value or, perhaps more accurately, a value among those nations that speak English; it is not necessarily a Biblical value. Other societies can engage in spirited dialogue, agree to disagree, and let it go at the end of the day. Maybe if we Americans learned to do that a little better no one would watch Fox News.
So thanks for taking the time to read stuff from "the blogging man that tells the truth." Or at least "tries to tell the truth."
*I do, however, find commenting back and forth to be an exercise far more exhausting than blogging. So if I ever stop following up a conversation here, it's probably not that I've given up my thoughts but more likely that I'm tired of the exchange. If you really disagree with me to the point of online arguing, I'd suggest starting a blog of your own. It's much fun.