Progressive Wednesday

Clergyman Charlie: On religious disappointment

February 18th, 2008 by Charles Lamb

• “Because of this many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him. So Jesus asked the twelve, ‘Do you also wish to go away?’ Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life.’” (John 6:66-67)
• “At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him (Jesus), ‘Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.’ Hs said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox for me,…” (Luke 13:31-32a)
• “God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline” (I Timothy 1:7)
• “So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us…” (II Corinthians 5:20a)
• “I solemnly urge you, proclaim the message; be persistent whether the time is favorable or unfavorable; convince, rebuke, and encourage, with the utmost patience in teaching.” (II Timothy 1b-2)

These five scriptures are from different contexts, of course, but it is legitimate to point out some of the themes they convey.

The first one reminds us that sometimes Jesus took unpopular stands. When many left him, that did not change his message nor deter him from his course.

The second shows that Jesus did not hesitate to speak strongly and truthfully against unjust and wicked people, even when they were in positions of power.

The third reminds us that God has given us his Spirit, the same Spirit that was in Jesus, and we need not be timid or cowardly. In fact, we must not.

The fourth tells us that our job is to represent Christ and his Kingdom.

The fifth tells us to speak boldly even when it may not be tactful at that time to do so.

I’m disappointed, because I don’t see many clergy or churches following these themes to the extent that I think they should.

Many may disagree with this column. They may tell me I am getting into politics. I don’t think so. I think from the beginning the Church of Christ was to stand up for justice, peace, and righteousness, and to confront the powers and principalities that damage our world and human life.

Let me more specific. How many of we clergy, or church leaders, have spoken up forcefully against the war? Or against torture? As ambassadors for Christ, shouldn’t we be speaking up for peace and justice? Isn’t it clear that what we are doing in the world in supposedly fighting evil is, itself, evil?

In my hometown in Western New York, how many are taking a stand against the proposed expansion of Chemical Waste Management? Do we intend to stand idly by while approval is given to expand this site for the importation of dangerous toxic materials from 30 states and Canada?

Whenever a minister, a lay person, or a congregation takes a stand opposition is to be expected. Members may leave the church. Angry anonymous letters may be received. Some people may stop giving money. Do you think any of this would have deterred Christ from his ministry? Are we ready to take up our cross and follow him?

Some might say I am equating my opinion with Christianity. My response would be, can you imagine Christ condoning torture? Agreeing to the bombing of civilians? Accepting the idea that dangerous poisons should be brought near to little children and fresh water? Once he turned over the tables of money changers because he said they were making his Father’s house into a den of thieves. This earth is the Father’s house; it should not be despoiled.

It doesn’t do a lot of good to read the Scriptures unless we apply them to real life situations. I hope that those who read this will bring up these issues not only to leaders in governmental agencies and positions of power, but also within their congregations. I hope groups of clergymen will take strong and clear stands. I hope congregations will vote and go on record so that people know what the church has to say.

This is a time for boldness and for following a Christ who did not show fear when opposed. I think he needs some faithful followers today.