It seems to me that among some Christians the all-too-human instinct to be right, and others wrong, has become so intense that common politeness, respect and kindness have been discarded as if so many soiled mechanics’ rags. In defense of morality, biblical behavior and righteous ethics some have become vicious, even suggesting that violence is an option in the battle for the soul of a nation. Nowhere is the phenomenon more startling than on social media venues. I find myself being ashamed that I know some of those who have personal freedom to disrespect and attack those serving in the highest offices in our government.
I am especially troubled because the "bully pulpit" which some so proudly use is a platform whose origins are secular and political, not rooted in the Kingdom of God. Boasting, bragging, blustering threats are of another spirit. To rip Psalm 109:8-10 from its context is at least as vicious as terminating the life of an unborn child. Does the spirit of Jesus allow us to wish our President dead, his wife a grieving widow and his children orphaned? Is bullying name calling and hatred allowed as an appropriate response to political and moral differences?
What happens when we express disrespect for leadership? I believe leadership undermined in one area creeps into other venues. Like anger, disrespect has no boundaries. A parent overheard by his or her child expressing contempt for a leader undermines their own God-given moral leadership. I am fond of telling others that I didn’t know pastors made mistakes until I became one. My parents, and Pat’s, instilled a deep respect for the office and the person called "pastor." Police officers were addressed with a "Yes sir," and teachers were held in high regard. What happened to us? Both office and officer, classroom and teacher must fight off bullying parents and I’m-right-and-you-are-wrong-militants.
It wouldn’t be so bad, but the spirit that troubles me is often the attitude of people calling Jesus Lord. The argument too often is, "Well, if he was like . . . . (one of the former residents in the White House) . . . then I would . . . " But, I am uncertain that Scripture allows that loophole for justifying rude, crude behavior. The Apostle Paul called on the church to pray for and submit to authorities, and many of those authorities were fearful violent men. (Romans 13)
If Stephen lived today, would he use Facebook to criticize and promote insurrection against a political party or an unpopular piece of legislation? Does heaven open and show Jesus standing to welcome anti-government martyrs, or for those who proclaim His Message? But, suffering is not now in vogue, for any reason.
Could we just be still for a while and dedicate social media time to helping a homeless person find a warm place to sleep on a freezing night? Would our message disarm detractors of Jesus’ Name if we responded to the needs of the unemployed, cared for unwed teen mothers or rebuilt an abandoned house for a family shivering in an old sedan because their home was ravaged by an arson-set fire?
Could King David’s attitude experience a new revival of popularity? David lamented that he disrespected Saul and the office of the King of Israel when being hunted by Saul. After ascending to the throne David sought out Saul’s grandson and moved him into his palace. Is it possible that American Christians do more damage than good by being so outspoken and political? Could we design a forum, on social networks and face-to-face, where we humbled ourselves for being so critical, contentious and combative? Could we develop a plan to contribute to the needs of others and regain a forum for our message supported by charity, kindness and jaw-dropping generosity? I believe contentious people who are absolutely convinced they are right have held bully pulpit microphones long enough.
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