Quote:
Originally Posted by Peter Debelak
So then, whose Justice? Is it really that simple a concept that you can purport to know what it should look like? What I see, more often than not (on both sides of the political spectrum), when people invoke extremely complicated concepts like Justice as if it was a blunt instrument, is people usurping spiritual language to justify whatever the heck they want to do.
Have you ever read Michael Sandal’s book JUSTICE? He actually argues that we should have MORE moral debates in politics, not less. Because what we have now is “ideological food fights” rather than moral debate. Debate requires the humility that you might be persuaded (even if doubtful). I can recommend quite a few other books on “pursing Justice” and the political process if you’d really like to get into this, as opposed to tossing the word “JUSTICE” around as a banner above whatever it is one might be arguing. If you'd rather not getting into defining what "Justice" means, then lets leave it out of the argument.
I take moral civic engagement very seriously. And I take exercising my faith in the world toward concrete ends very seriously. That is different than bringing God’s name (and often His supposed “will”) into enacting laws for human government.
So, your point about not “over-spiritualizing” in order to justify “doing nothing,” is well taken. Except, I already knew that and evidenced it in previous posts. Do you acknowledge the dangers I flag here – of using complicated spiritual principles as blunt instruments to enact whatever human agenda one sees fit?
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Unless I missed something, is this the only question in that long, bitterly scathing and caustic diatribe?
To answer the question, yes I am aware. I am aware that when you go to war you should not underestimate your opponent. I am also aware of the expression "all is fair in love and war" implying that when you lose the war you cannot complain that "they cheated". You have to be prepared for lies, cheating, deceit, etc. If you are not prepared, don't go to war. It is clear in the OT that not everyone in Israel was required to be in the Army. It is also clear in Ephesians, that the Church is to be the Army of God.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Peter Debelak
Pardon my intense tone. I've just seen too many people damaged by the kind of hubris at the bottom of your comments.
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I can pardon the tone. What I find offense at is your accusation of hubris. Throughout your entire harangue which I found devoid of "christian humility" you assume that you know me, understand me, and then judge me to be arrogant. You didn't make any effort to "get to the bottom of my comments".
Quote:
Originally Posted by Peter Debelak
In Love,
Peter
P.S. I really do mean "In Love." I do hope you continue to post on this and other topics so that we can engage on numerous levels. I bark a little on this thread, in defense of humility when interacting with fellow citizens. I really am much more mushy on other topics... !!!!  |
Yes, I have seen this form of "love" previously in the Local Church. I think you are deceived as to what "love" is and I really do mean "deceived". I would be very interested in engaging in a discussion, but if this rant is the style to be expected here then no, this will be the last I post.