Judgmental! That is how many in the postmodern culture view traditional denominational Christianity. Judgmental (in their world) implies being mean-spirited, cruel, disrespectful. When Christians label those who have experienced abortion – “baby killers”, when we call homosexuals – ” faggots”, they lose sight of our moral or Biblical condemnation and see only a cruel heart. We tell them we are about love. We tell them God is love. We preach love, teach love, but do we love? We throw the term “sinners” around with the same vitriol as the Pharisees in Jesus’ day.
I must confess that I keep a few stones in my pockets. They are useful to me when the woman caught in adultery is brought before me. I am ready and some times eager to stone her for her behavior. Well, perhaps I speak figuratively here. But my speech can fly like a stone and injure those with whom I disagree. I am a political conservative with little patience – or kind words – for liberals. I am a religious conservative with little understanding – or kind words – for liberals. I am a Chicago Cub fan and little kindness…well you get the point. Lutherans struggle to speak respectfully or lovingly of each other at times. ELCA vs. LCMS vs. WELS.
I can easily demonstrate a political, theological, intellectual, moral sense of superiority. I can be holier than thou!! Therefore, you are something less, worthy of less respect, patience, understanding, etc. And yet I claim to be a follower of the Christ. Those outside the Church watch and listen. If this is love, then they want no part of me or my Church. My ability to be mean-spirited, disrespectful, even mean, diminishes my witness. How about you?
In Ephesians 4 Paul told us to speak the truth. We cannot compromise the Truth in order to win members to our congregations. Nor can we speak hatred and disrespect and honor Christ. We must speak the Truth- in Love - in order to introduce people to Jesus. Are you judgmental? Disrespectful of others? Can you join me in repentance and together let’s realize how those around us view our speech?
