I apologize that my previous post was perceived as a personal attack of a particular blog. My intent was to present the quote as an example of an attitude. I admit that I underestimated the powers of google, but I trust that none of you who discovered the blog will bother the blog owner.
He happens to be pursuing a very narrow focus of study with a few local friends and is fully in his right to do so on a public blog. It was never my intent to engage him in a dialog or debate in order to persuade him to change his beliefs.
My post wasn’t about his blog, but rather about a specific attitude. I am sure that if I were to search, I could come up with hundreds of similar quotes from other blogs. That isn’t really my mission in life or blogging. This particular quote just landed in my lap, so to speak, and caught me by surprise. So of course, I had to share the joy with all of you.
I am not offended with this particular blogger. He has a right to his beliefs. I rarely choose to confront these attitudes when I see them. Most of the exchanges that I have seen like that on blogs are frustrating and unfruitful. I am not willing to engage in that manner with strangers over the internet.
That said, I find this particular theology/belief/attitude offensive. Based on my personal beliefs and conclusions, it is false, damaging, and contrary to the values of the kingdom. To be honest, I do not think there is a thing wrong with me saying so on my blog.
Maybe the “sisters” should just shrug it off. In a way we do, using a little humor and sarcasm to deflect the barb. To be honest, I am surprised that some people would be more offended at the sarcastic responses than at the completely diminishing nature of the quote.
So when does this apply?
“Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” Matthew 7:3
Personally, I have seen it used way too often in Christian circles to silence people. I would be at the front of the line of imperfect people. If perfection is the standard required for me to express an opinion, then I would have to shut the blog down immediately.
While I rarely engage in debates on my blog or others, I will use my blog as a forum to express my point of view. I have tried to maintain an atmosphere that is inclusive and receptive to opposing viewpoints as long as they are presented in a respectful tone.
