What is it about so many Christians that leads them/us to be incredibly zealous in attacking others for their sins, while ignoring our own sin? What is it about so many Christians that seem to assume their own forgiveness, yet who aggressively withhold forgiveness from others? What is it about some Christians that compels them to "shoot our wounded" rather than work for repentance and restoration? There's an old saying that compares the Church to a hospital for the sick and injured, yet to watch so much of social media Christianity recently I'm convinced that triage involves (metaphorically) shooting a lot of folks. I'm not saying that we don't call out sin, or wrongdoing, we absolutely should. Yet I can't imagine Jesus responding to the sinners He interacted with the same way we see on social media.
I have a lot of problems with social media, and truly believe that the harm we'll discover that was caused by children's exposure to it will be much greater than we imagine. Yet, I'm starting to think that the anonymity of social media is proving to be an avenue for some people to engage in sin that they would not engage in otherwise.
Growing up it was, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything". Maybe there's something to that.
I saw a video this weekend of an interview at TPUSA with a woman who'd quit OF, become a Christian, and had gotten married. The comments section was BRUTAL. I understand exercising caution when a "celebrity" becomes a Christian, especially when it's publicized. I even understand that maybe caution in putting someone like this out on a big stage might be a good thing, maybe wait and see before putting her out there. But the number of "Christians" who were doubting her sincerity and ripping her to shreds was disgusting. Clearly, Dan isn't the only one who considers vitriol as grace.
7 comments:
That I might be guilty of some of this behavior at some points, doesn't mean that bringing up the topic is inappropriate. This is why I do follow the "If you can't say something nice" rule when it comes to my social media presence.
Amen. So let us work for repentance and restoration, you and I. What say ye, Mr Craig?
On social media, I take great pains to comment in the most gracious manner possible. There is one particular person I've known since high school (somewhere around 54 years ago) who is very Dan-like and our interaction is like dealing with Dan. In other words, he's a lefty liar just like Dan. I don't mind reminding him that he's a liar, and as usual, use the term as a description of reality, rather than just as an insult. I'm always prepared to back up my claim. I don't want him to be a liar anymore than I like Dan being one. Both are beyond "being nice" when they go out of their way to say that which is not in any way provable or likely.
With new confrontations, I seek to maintain your principle, even when my opponents wish me dead.
At the same time, I really enjoy good snark, be it delivering or being a target of it. Really good snark is priceless!
Dan, that sounds all wonderful and magnanimous of you. Maybe you could start by apologizing for the vitriolic comments, ad hom attacks, lies, and for allowing others to lie about me on your blog. Then maybe, you could stop doing those things. Start showing the grace you prate about both here and on your socials, then we'll talk.
On social media I mostly stay silent, it's easier and safer. I both love and like my family and see no reason to cause them to cancel me.
I've considered a burner social account just to make snarky comments, but realize that it would be bad for me to do so.
I foolishly made a comment on a roofing company post which showed a clear OSHA violation (Wondered why they'd document a violation in their advertising) and the number of people who got pissed about that was insane.
Well, that last line didn't describe any foolishness on your part. Certainly was on the part of the roofing company, though. I don't think I've scared away any family members but one of decidedly suspect character. But he comes and goes mostly because of things others say. He does, however, often hang up on me when we talk on the phone. By the time that happens, I consider it a good thing.
Yeah, it was foolish to think that it would be taken in the spirit it was offered.
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