A Time To Refrain From Speaking

A Time To Refrain From Speaking September 12, 2013

Rachel Held Evans posted an interview with Derek Webb on her blog. It includes the following wise statement:

I have simply tried to avoid giving short answers to questions for which there are no short answers.  And I know there is a real temptation in our culture that we must.  But that is a lie.  Just because someone asks doesn’t mean you have to answer, especially if goes against what feels like wisdom or against your conscience.  So I do think there can be moments to make bold public statements, but one must always do so in a way that is loving and measured, never cavalier.

And if you’re ever cornered into a complex situation, do what Jesus did: ask a follow-up.  Answer with a question. Make sure you understand what’s being asked and who is asking before you even consider answering.  Anything less is irresponsible and reckless, if not a destructive witness.

The blog Defeating the Dragons has some thoughts about what you should say to a recovering fundamentalist.

Bruce Gerencser and Sabio Lantz blogged about believing someone is going to hell.

Roger Olson discussed doubt. Aric Clark discussed the cop-out of Jesus’ perfection.

 


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