Minister Deets On IHOP KC
Minister Deets On IHOP KC
Note: “Evangelical” will be used as a catch-all term for the religious right.
Background
While I am no longer a believer, it would be a lie to say that Christianity has not had a profound influence in my life. My birther turned to God instead of a therapist to “treat” her trauma, so that basically made me a Christian by birth. Further, she was a Baptist, so this selectively mute under diagnosed autistic kid received his socialization via watching people speaking in tongues instead of learning how to socialize with my peers like “normal” kids. And since part of my trauma manifests in various forms of perfectionism, I was always that good little Christian that could quote the Bible in and out on demand. By the time I was a teenager, my life literally revolved around the Church.
Although I grew up in the Church, my first “salvation” experience was by watching the original 2000 Left Behind movie adaptation with Kirk Cameron. If the previous words just triggered a red flag response in your guts, then you probably have an idea where this is headed…
Mobilized Youth
Left Behind was my gateway drug into Evangelical Christianity. Oh, yes. Now we have more than simply speaking in tongues. We have “healings” now. We have “signs and mircales” now. We have intimate, borderline spiritcestuous worship experieces now. We have a world to save!
Jesus can’t come back until every soul has had a chance to hear The Good News! We have to bring Jesus back! We have to save the lost souls. We have to! We have to! We have to vote to user in Christ’s Kingdom! Yes! Yes, Vote! Christ depends on it! Gotta save those unborn babies! Gotta save those stem cells from saving lives! Gotta! Gotta Gotta! ISRAEL!
Israel has to be whole. The Temple has to be restored! Palewho? Gaza what? No, those brown people don’t matter. All that matters is Christ is and His Kingdom. Even if that means ushering in Armageddon itself. Megiddo! The last battle must take place! Nuclear BOMBS! Yes! Yes! Jesus has to stop a nuclear bomb from bombing Jerusalem! Protect Jerusalem! Protect! Protect! Protect!
Protect and cover! Cover for those you serve. Cover for those who lead you. Cover. Cover at the expense of your own cognitive dissonance. Your Pastor did what? No… That’s just gossip. What? The Youth Pastor fondled who? No! That’s just wild hearsay. What’s that? The deacon took what kind of pictures? No… No… That’s just Satan trying to tear down Godly men.
Evangelicults
As I hope I illustrated, the slope from redemption to radicalization is steep, while the line between Evangelicalism and Extremism is razor-thin. This movement is built upon the complete and utter control of its’ followers. A single “weak link” can be enough to topple the entire house of cards. Allegations are to be disregarded, and your allegiance to Dear Leader is to be unceasing. And Dear Leader pulls it off by keeping control… Full control.
Salvation within the Evangelical community is not simply as simple as reading your Bible, loving your family, living a life as best as you can, and fellow shipping on Sundays. No, no, no. That is a lifestyle worthy of our Undead King. Zombie Jesus calls for your every single waking thought, for even momentary doubts are enough to be accused of being a backslider.
That means 6 AM group prayer every single day. That means Bible time. Bible time before work. Bible time after work. Bible time before Bible study. Bible time before bed. And, oh, don’t get any crazy ideas about actually reading the Bible at your own pace… Here are prepared study guides so that you come to the same conclusions that we preach. That means volunteering at the Church on top of your dues tithes and sacrifices.
They want your life. They want that ownership and control. Personal autonomy? That’s satanic woke commie shit. No, You are property of Jesus and that means you are property of the Church. They. Own. You. mmhmm… I mean… Jesus owns you.
Deets & IHOPKC
I grew up at just the right time and just the right place to be aware of the IHOP movement, but not the logistics to be an actual part of it. Growing up in St. Joseph, MO, the Church I went to was just a little over an hour north of the IHOPKC campus. I knew about IHOPKC. I wanted to be a part of IHOPKC. Had just a few things turned out differently in pivotal parts of my life, I probably would have ended up at IHOP University and may even still be a part of the organization.
But, life didn’t turn out that way. Yet, IHOP always kind of remained in the periphery of my life, and the lives of those around me. Even now, if I hop on the highway, I can be at their campus in less than 15 minutes. In one way or another, IHOPKC has been an influence on my life for over twenty years.
So, when the allegations started flowing regarding Bickle and IHOPKC, I viewed it as an opportunity to take a deep dive into the movement, review the controversies, and analyze ways for not only IHOPKC to move forward. And, ideally, plant the seeds for the Evangelical community at large to have a long overdue come to Jesus meeting with their religion.
Accountability
Improving the accountability metrics of leaders within Evangelical churches is crucial for fostering trust, integrity, and effectiveness within these communities. Here are some strategies that Evangelical churches can consider implementing to enhance accountability:
Establish Clear Governance Structures: Implement clear governance structures within the church, including boards or councils composed of diverse members who can provide oversight and accountability for leaders. Ensure that these structures have well-defined roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.
Implement Transparent Financial Practices: Maintain transparent financial practices, including regular financial reporting, independent audits, and clear policies for budgeting, spending, and financial accountability. Provide congregation members with access to financial information and ensure that financial decisions align with the church's mission and values.
Adopt Written Codes of Conduct: Develop and implement written codes of conduct or ethical guidelines for leaders, staff, and volunteers within the church. These codes should outline expectations for behavior, integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct, and should be regularly communicated and enforced.
Encourage Accountability Partnerships: Encourage leaders to establish accountability partnerships or mentoring relationships with peers or trusted individuals within the church or broader Christian community. These partnerships can provide support, guidance, and accountability for personal and professional growth.
Offer Training and Development: Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for leaders on topics such as ethical leadership, conflict resolution, communication skills, and pastoral care. Equip leaders with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to lead with integrity and effectiveness.
Implement Feedback Mechanisms: Establish feedback mechanisms within the church to solicit input, concerns, and feedback from congregation members, staff, and volunteers. Create safe spaces for honest dialogue and constructive feedback, and take appropriate action in response to feedback received.
Promote a Culture of Accountability: Foster a culture of accountability within the church by modeling accountability at all levels of leadership and ministry. Celebrate examples of accountability and integrity, and address instances of misconduct or ethical lapses promptly and transparently.
Hold Leaders Accountable: Hold leaders accountable for their actions and decisions, regardless of their position or status within the church. Ensure that there are consequences for misconduct or violations of ethical standards, and uphold principles of fairness, justice, and transparency in accountability processes.
By implementing these strategies, Evangelical churches can strengthen accountability within their leadership structures and create environments where leaders are held to high standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Surveillance & Logs
While the idea of implementing surveillance tools and meeting logs within Evangelical churches may raise concerns about privacy and trust, there are ways that technology can be utilized to enhance transparency and accountability while still respecting the privacy and autonomy of church members and leaders. Here are some considerations:
Implement Secure Communication Platforms: Use secure communication platforms for official church communications, such as encrypted email services or messaging apps with end-to-end encryption. This can help ensure the privacy and confidentiality of sensitive communications while still allowing for transparency and accountability.
Record and Archive Meetings: Record and archive important meetings, such as board meetings, leadership meetings, and staff meetings, to create a historical record of decisions, discussions, and actions taken. Make these recordings accessible to relevant stakeholders, such as board members or congregation leaders, to enhance transparency and accountability.
Use Digital Meeting Tools: Utilize digital meeting tools, such as video conferencing software or online collaboration platforms, to facilitate remote meetings and enable participation from stakeholders who may not be able to attend in person. This can help ensure that meetings are inclusive and accessible to all relevant parties, enhancing transparency and accountability.
Establish Meeting Protocols: Develop clear protocols and guidelines for conducting meetings, including agendas, meeting minutes, and action items. Ensure that meeting minutes are accurate and comprehensive, documenting key decisions, discussions, and follow-up actions. Make meeting minutes available to relevant stakeholders to promote transparency and accountability.
Utilize Project Management Tools: Use project management tools or task management software to track progress on key initiatives, projects, and action items discussed in meetings. Assign responsibilities, set deadlines, and monitor progress to ensure that tasks are completed in a timely and accountable manner.
Provide Training and Support: Offer training and support to church leaders and staff on the use of technology tools for enhancing transparency and accountability. Provide guidance on best practices for recording meetings, maintaining documentation, and utilizing digital communication platforms effectively and securely.
Promote Open Communication: Foster a culture of open communication within the church, where members feel comfortable sharing feedback, concerns, and ideas with church leaders and staff. Encourage transparency and accountability at all levels of leadership and ministry, and address any issues or discrepancies promptly and transparently.
By leveraging technology tools and best practices, Evangelical churches can enhance transparency and accountability within their leadership structures while still respecting the privacy and autonomy of church members and leaders. It's essential to strike a balance between transparency and privacy, ensuring that any surveillance or monitoring measures are implemented thoughtfully and ethically.
See:
CCTV
While installing security cameras in all public areas and grounds of a church may provide certain benefits in terms of security and safety, it's important to recognize that there are potential drawbacks and limitations to this approach. While security cameras can enhance accountability and transparency in some respects, they may also raise concerns about privacy, trust, and the potential for misuse or abuse.
Here are some considerations to keep in mind when evaluating the use of security cameras in a church setting:
Enhanced Security: Security cameras can help deter criminal activity, vandalism, and theft on church premises by providing a visual deterrent and recording evidence of any incidents that occur. This can contribute to a safer and more secure environment for church members and visitors.
Accountability and Transparency: Security cameras can provide a record of activities and interactions that occur in public areas of the church, which can enhance accountability and transparency in certain situations. For example, cameras may be used to monitor access to sensitive areas, such as offices or storage rooms, and to document incidents of misconduct or inappropriate behavior.
Privacy Concerns: Installing security cameras in all public areas of a church may raise concerns about privacy, particularly if individuals feel that their movements and interactions are being monitored without their consent. It's important to balance the need for security with respect for individuals' privacy rights and to communicate clearly about the purpose and scope of surveillance measures.
Trust and Community Dynamics: The presence of security cameras may affect the sense of trust and community within the church, particularly if members feel that their actions are being scrutinized or that they are under constant surveillance. It's important to consider the potential impact of surveillance measures on the church community and to address any concerns or objections raised by members.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: Before installing security cameras, churches should be aware of any legal and regulatory requirements related to surveillance and privacy, as well as ethical considerations surrounding the use of surveillance technology. Churches should ensure that their use of security cameras complies with applicable laws and standards and that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect the privacy of individuals.
Ultimately, the decision to install security cameras in a church should be made thoughtfully and with careful consideration of the potential benefits, drawbacks, and implications for the church community. It's important to engage in open dialogue and consultation with church members and leaders to ensure that any surveillance measures are implemented in a manner that respects the values, needs, and concerns of the community.
Victim Defense Funds
Establishing victim defense funds for those who have been abused by church leadership can be a proactive and compassionate step for megachurches to take in addressing instances of abuse and supporting survivors. Here are some reasons why megachurches may consider establishing such funds:
Support for Survivors: Victim defense funds can provide financial assistance to survivors of abuse, helping them access resources such as counseling, legal support, and medical care. This support can be crucial in helping survivors heal and rebuild their lives in the aftermath of abuse.
Acknowledgment of Responsibility: Establishing victim defense funds sends a clear message that the church takes allegations of abuse seriously and is committed to supporting survivors. It acknowledges the responsibility of the church to address instances of abuse and provides tangible support to those who have been harmed by church leadership.
Promotion of Accountability: Victim defense funds can help hold church leadership accountable for their actions by providing financial resources for survivors to pursue legal action or seek restitution for damages. This can create incentives for church leaders to take allegations of abuse seriously and to implement measures to prevent future incidents.
Restoration of Trust: By demonstrating a commitment to supporting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable, megachurches can work to restore trust within the church community and rebuild relationships that may have been damaged by instances of abuse. Victim defense funds can be part of a broader effort to promote transparency, accountability, and healing within the church.
Demonstration of Compassion: Establishing victim defense funds reflects the compassionate values of Christianity and demonstrates a commitment to caring for the vulnerable and marginalized members of the church community. It sends a message of solidarity and support to survivors, letting them know that they are not alone in their journey toward healing and justice.
Overall, establishing victim defense funds can be a proactive and meaningful way for megachurches to address instances of abuse, support survivors, and promote accountability and healing within the church community. It requires a commitment to transparency, compassion, and justice, but can ultimately contribute to a safer and more supportive environment for all members of the church.
Back to Basics
Returning to the core teachings of Christ as presented in the Gospels is essential for Evangelical churches seeking to maintain the authenticity and vitality of their faith. Here are some ways Evangelical churches can get back to these basics:
Emphasize Bible Study: Encourage regular and in-depth study of the Gospels within the church community. Provide opportunities for individuals to engage with the teachings of Christ through small group Bible studies, sermons, and other educational programs.
Prioritize Sermons on Christ's Teachings: Ensure that sermons and messages delivered within the church focus on the core teachings of Christ as found in the Gospels. Preachers can explore the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus and their relevance to contemporary Christian life.
Model Christ-like Behavior: Encourage church leaders and members to embody the values and principles taught by Jesus in their daily lives. This includes demonstrating love, compassion, humility, forgiveness, and servant leadership in all interactions and relationships.
Engage in Discipleship: Foster a culture of discipleship within the church, where individuals are mentored and guided in their spiritual growth and development. Encourage older, more mature believers to mentor younger Christians in the faith, helping them understand and apply the teachings of Christ in their lives.
Practice Prayer and Worship: Cultivate a rich prayer life and culture of worship within the church, where individuals can connect with God and experience His presence. Encourage prayerful reflection on the teachings of Christ and incorporate worship songs and hymns that center on His life, death, and resurrection.
Serve Others: Encourage church members to actively engage in acts of service and outreach that reflect the compassion and love of Christ. This may include volunteering in local communities, supporting missions and humanitarian efforts, and advocating for social justice issues.
Promote Unity and Reconciliation: Emphasize the importance of unity and reconciliation within the church community, following Christ's example of breaking down barriers and bringing people together. Encourage dialogue, understanding, and forgiveness among individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
By prioritizing these practices, Evangelical churches can ensure that they remain grounded in the core teachings of Christ as presented in the Gospels, fostering spiritual growth, community, and mission effectiveness within the church and beyond.
Character of Christ
The Sermon on the Mount, found in the Gospel of Matthew chapters 5-7, provides profound insights into the character of Jesus Christ. Here are some key aspects of Christ's character that can be gleaned from this important teaching:
Compassion and Mercy: Throughout the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus demonstrates deep compassion and mercy toward those who are marginalized, oppressed, or suffering. He blesses the poor in spirit, mourners, the meek, and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, showing that He cares deeply for the brokenhearted and the downtrodden.
Humility and Servanthood: Jesus models humility and servanthood in His teachings, emphasizing the importance of meekness, gentleness, and putting others before oneself. He teaches that greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in serving others and being willing to humble oneself, rather than seeking power or prestige.
Love and Forgiveness: Central to the Sermon on the Mount is Jesus' call to love one another and to forgive those who wrong us. He teaches His followers to love their enemies, to pray for those who persecute them, and to extend forgiveness to others as they have received forgiveness from God. This demonstrates Christ's boundless love and grace toward all people.
Righteousness and Integrity: Jesus upholds the highest standards of righteousness and integrity in His teachings, calling His followers to live lives of holiness and obedience to God's commands. He emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and purity of heart, teaching that true righteousness goes beyond outward acts to include inward attitudes and motives.
Justice and Advocacy: Jesus speaks out against injustice and oppression in His teachings, challenging the religious leaders of His day to uphold the principles of justice, mercy, and compassion. He calls His followers to advocate for the marginalized, to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, and to work for the establishment of God's Kingdom of justice and righteousness on earth.
Faithfulness and Trust in God: Throughout the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus encourages His followers to trust in God's provision and to have faith that God will take care of their needs. He teaches them not to worry about material possessions or earthly concerns but to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that God will provide everything they need.
In summary, the Sermon on the Mount reveals Jesus Christ as the embodiment of compassion, humility, love, righteousness, justice, and faithfulness. It provides a compelling portrait of His character and teachings, inviting His followers to emulate His example and to live lives that reflect His values and principles.
See:
Wait? Jesus really was woke?
The term "woke" has various connotations and interpretations, but it generally refers to a heightened awareness of social injustices, particularly those related to race, gender, and other forms of discrimination. It is often associated with advocacy for social change and activism aimed at addressing systemic inequalities.
While Jesus demonstrated a deep concern for justice, compassion, and the well-being of marginalized and oppressed individuals, it's important to recognize that the concept of being "woke" as it is understood today is a modern social and cultural phenomenon that may not directly correspond to the historical context of Jesus' teachings.
However, there are aspects of Jesus' ministry and teachings that resonate with principles of social justice and advocacy for the marginalized. For example:
Concern for the Poor and Oppressed: Jesus consistently showed compassion for the poor, the marginalized, and those who were oppressed or marginalized by society. He spoke out against injustice and exploitation, and He actively reached out to those who were marginalized or excluded from society.
Challenging the Status Quo: Jesus often challenged the religious and social norms of His time, particularly those that perpetuated inequality or injustice. He confronted religious leaders who exploited their authority and mistreated others, and He called His followers to live lives of compassion, humility, and service rather than seeking power or privilege.
Inclusion and Equality: Jesus' ministry was characterized by a radical inclusivity that welcomed all people, regardless of their social status, ethnicity, or background. He broke down barriers between people and advocated for a vision of community based on love, compassion, and mutual respect.
Advocacy for the Marginalized: Jesus consistently advocated for the rights and dignity of the marginalized and oppressed, including women, children, Samaritans, and others who were marginalized by society. He challenged social hierarchies and systems of oppression, and He called His followers to actively work for justice and reconciliation.
While Jesus may not fit neatly into contemporary categories or ideologies, His teachings and example offer timeless principles of justice, compassion, and advocacy for the marginalized that resonate with the values of social justice and inclusion. Whether or not Jesus could be considered "woke" in the modern sense, His ministry continues to inspire and challenge believers to work for a more just and equitable society.
Financial Stewardship
Megachurches can enhance transparency about their finances and better utilize their resources to fulfill the work of Christ by implementing the following strategies:
Financial Transparency: Megachurches should strive to be transparent about their financial practices, including income sources, expenses, and budget allocations. This can be achieved through regular financial reporting, audited financial statements, and accessible financial information for congregation members.
Stewardship Education: Educate congregation members about the biblical principles of stewardship and generosity, emphasizing the importance of giving back to those in need. Provide resources and opportunities for financial literacy training, budgeting workshops, and discussions on the ethical use of money.
Mission and Outreach Focus: Align financial resources with the mission and values of Christ by prioritizing outreach and ministry initiatives that address the needs of the community and world. This may include feeding the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, supporting refugees and immigrants, visiting prisoners, and offering healthcare services.
Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations, non-profits, and government agencies to leverage resources and maximize impact in addressing social issues. Forge partnerships with food banks, homeless shelters, refugee resettlement agencies, healthcare providers, and other organizations to expand the reach and effectiveness of ministry efforts.
Accountability Measures: Implement accountability measures to ensure that financial resources are used effectively and responsibly. This may include establishing oversight committees, conducting regular financial audits, and providing transparency reports to congregation members.
Volunteer Engagement: Mobilize congregation members to actively participate in ministry and outreach efforts through volunteerism. Encourage members to use their time, talents, and resources to serve others in need, whether through direct service or supporting ministry initiatives financially.
Impact Measurement: Evaluate the impact of ministry and outreach programs to assess effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Use metrics such as number of meals served, individuals housed, refugees resettled, etc., to track progress and measure outcomes.
Prayer and Discernment: Seek God's guidance and discernment in financial decision-making, prioritizing prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit to lead and guide ministry efforts. Encourage congregation members to pray for wisdom and discernment in stewardship and giving.
By implementing these strategies, megachurches can enhance transparency about their finances and more effectively utilize their resources to fulfill the work of Christ, demonstrating His love and compassion to those in need and making a tangible impact in the world.
Make Amends With The LGBTQ+ Community
Acceptance and making amends with the LGBTQ+ community is a complex and multifaceted process, especially within Evangelical Christianity, where traditional interpretations of scripture often clash with modern understandings of sexuality and gender identity. However, there are several important reasons why Evangelicals should strive for acceptance and reconciliation with the LGBTQ+ community:
Biblical Principles of Love and Acceptance: Evangelical Christianity is founded on the principles of love, compassion, and acceptance taught by Jesus Christ. Central to Christian faith is the commandment to love one another as oneself, without exception. Accepting and affirming the LGBTQ+ community aligns with these core teachings and reflects the inclusive love of Christ.
Dignity and Equality of All Human Beings: Evangelicals believe in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, as all people are created in the image of God. This includes LGBTQ+ individuals, who deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, and equality, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Social Justice and Equity: Striving for acceptance and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community is a matter of social justice and equity. LGBTQ+ individuals have historically faced discrimination, marginalization, and violence, both within society at large and within religious communities. Evangelicals have a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with marginalized groups and work towards a more just and inclusive society.
Healing and Reconciliation: Acceptance and reconciliation with the LGBTQ+ community can lead to healing and reconciliation within the Church and broader society. It can foster greater understanding, empathy, and unity among diverse groups, promoting harmony and peace within the body of Christ.
Authentic Witness of Christian Love: Embracing the LGBTQ+ community with love and acceptance can serve as a powerful witness to the transformative power of Christ's love. It demonstrates to the world the inclusive and unconditional nature of God's love and challenges negative stereotypes about Christianity being exclusionary or judgmental.
To achieve acceptance and make amends with the LGBTQ+ community, Evangelicals must engage in sincere dialogue, listening, and empathy-building efforts. This may involve reexamining traditional interpretations of scripture, challenging harmful stereotypes and prejudices, and advocating for policies and practices that affirm the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals. Ultimately, it requires a commitment to love, justice, and reconciliation, guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Independent Reporting Resources
Establishing a third-party independent resource for victims of church abuse is crucial for ensuring accountability, support, and justice within Evangelical communities. Here are steps that Evangelicals can take to establish such a resource:
Recognize the Need: Acknowledge the prevalence of abuse within religious institutions, including Evangelical churches. Recognize the importance of providing a safe and confidential space for victims to report abuse and seek support.
Collaborate with Experts: Partner with organizations and experts in abuse prevention, victim advocacy, and trauma support to develop effective protocols and resources. Seek guidance from professionals who have experience in addressing abuse within religious contexts.
Create a Transparent Process: Develop clear and transparent procedures for reporting abuse, including how reports will be received, investigated, and resolved. Ensure that victims are informed of their rights, protections, and available support services throughout the process.
Establish Confidentiality Protocols: Implement strict confidentiality protocols to protect the privacy and safety of victims who come forward to report abuse. Ensure that information is shared only on a need-to-know basis and that victims have control over how their information is used and disclosed.
Train Personnel: Provide comprehensive training for clergy, staff, and volunteers on recognizing and responding to abuse. Equip them with the knowledge and skills to support victims, report incidents appropriately, and adhere to ethical and legal obligations.
Offer Support Services: Provide a range of support services for victims of abuse, including counseling, crisis intervention, legal advocacy, and spiritual care. Partner with community organizations and professionals to ensure that victims have access to the resources they need for healing and recovery.
Promote Awareness and Education: Educate congregants and leaders about the importance of preventing abuse and creating a culture of safety and accountability within the church. Offer workshops, seminars, and educational materials on recognizing signs of abuse, responding effectively, and creating safe environments for all members.
Establish Oversight and Accountability: Create an independent oversight body or advisory committee responsible for monitoring and evaluating the church's response to abuse reports. Ensure that this body has the authority to review cases, recommend policy changes, and hold church leaders accountable for addressing abuse.
Commit to Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update policies and procedures in response to feedback, emerging best practices, and changes in laws and regulations. Commit to a culture of continuous learning and improvement in preventing and responding to abuse.
By taking these steps, Evangelicals can establish a third-party independent resource that provides victims of church abuse with the support, validation, and justice they deserve. This resource can play a critical role in promoting accountability, healing, and safety within Evangelical communities.
Conclusion
The Church has become it’s own worst enemy. Moreso, The Church has become the enemy of rational thought and object truth. When I pull up those red letters, I don’t see Jesus telling his followers to bully trans kids. I don’t see Jesus telling a raped child that they have to give birth. I don’t see Jesus drowning refugees with barbed wire buoys. I don’t see Jesus bowing down at the altar of Capitalism.
Jesus was a refugee. When you drown them, you drown Him.
What I read when I see those red letters? I read about a man who loves humanity. I read about a man who took a woman who has been suffering for years - a woman who has tried everything available at the time - a woman in pain. I see a man take compassion upon her and taking her suffering upon himself. He didn’t condemn her for having a uterus. He didn’t protest and imprison her for having miscarriages.
He. Loved. Her.
When I read those red letters, I read about a socialist who literally drove the spirit of Capitalism out of the Temple. That means being proactive in advocating for a real social safety net while protesting corporations and the financial elite who do not pay their fair share. When I read those red letters, I read a commandment to love your brothers and sisters as if they were your own life and to love God above all else.
And what does God command? What is the very first commandment - if not the first commandment? Humans shall be stewards upon the Earth. That means that followers of Christ are to be Conservationists - are to be Environmentalists - are to be climate alarmists. How can we take care of our fellow man if we foster a planet that can no longer take care of us?
When I read those red letters, I read about a man who took women at their word. I read a man who, I believe, would stand up and protect a woman if they claim to have been assaulted… especially if they have been assaulted by their religious leader. We are not to hold Church leaders above reproach. No, we are to hold them up to the highest accountability. If the Church is to be the body of Christ, and if leadership is to be the head of that Church, then if the head has become corrupt, then that head must be cut off in order to prevent the corruption of the body. A spiritual head can be replaced. It is far harder to revive a spiritually dead body.
So… Dear Christian.
Ignorance you can no longer claim. If you’ve made it this far, then you are at a crossroads. Do you push this newfound knowledge deep down and continue to bury that nagging little voice of doubt…
Or do you take a chance in listening to that voice and see where it may take your life journey.
At the end of the day, if you still choose Christ, you must examine if you see Christ in those you choose to lead your spiritual journey.
Ron Deets, Autistic MBA