7 comments
Ian:
Thanks for commenting. I'm glad to learn there are others who have similar concerns.
Your observation about Christian Conservatives parallels my experience. I have no research to call upon here, but suspect the disconnect may be related to the nature of their political commitment. Since Conservatism is a political ideology, that makes it, in biblical terms, an idolatry, a religious faith commitment that from that moment vies for primacy in their life and thinking. All you are observing then is evidence of what worldview has actually captured their heart. So, though I don't find the phenomenon strange (in that it makes sense to me) like you I find it very deeply disturbing.
One more topic that we need to talk about.
Thanks
Denis
Hmmm...
I don't disagree that for many Christians (on both sides of the aisle) their political commitment has become an idol. As someone who is happy to call themselves a conservative (note the small 'c' though, and I tend to qualify it more if asked!), though, what i find particularly strange is that entrusting the government with arbitrary power is the very antithesis of true conservatism.
There seems to be an bizarre mental split where the same people who spend time accusing the current administration of plotting to strip Americans of their rights and destroy the rule of law are equally critical of them for following the law in fighting terrorism, or support them when they don't. Equally - tho' not quite as often - you can find political liberals who fight for equality all day, but support drone strikes...
To be honest, I'm inclined to think its simpler idolatries and blindnesses than Political Ideologies. I think that ever since 9/11 our politicians have been (falsely) promising us security if we'll just stop being so concerned about the Rule of Law. And I think that for a great many people, regardless of their political ideology, their ultimate idol is "Personal Peace and Affluence" (to use Schaeffer's phrase). The fault is fear, selfishness and short-sightedness in us, and in our politicians. Because for all they talk about Liberty or Justice, none of them are willing to admit to us that Liberty and Justice have a price, that a point may be reached where security and freedom are incompatible.
And on the social level, I think this is compounded by a specific blindness and prejudice on the issue of terrorism, in that I think that part of the reason so many are willing to dismiss the rights of terrorism suspects to a fair trial (or any trial!) or other due process is that they never, ever, imagine that they or anyone they know will be accused of terrorism. Terrorists are strange people "out there", who don't look like us and probably have Arabic names...
One of these days I'm going to write a little piece that starts
"First they came for the Islamic Fundamentalists and the "supporters of Terror groups"
And I cheered, because these people threaten our civilization!
Then they came for the militia groups and the survivalists,
and I did not speak up, because those guys are weird and scary and probably dangerous"
... and so on...
If the rule of law doesn't apply to everyone, it applies to no one.
Ian
PS. Denis, would it be ok if I copied your comment and my response over to my blog?
Ian:
My comment on ideology is based on David Koyzis' excellent book, Political Visions & Illusions, which I recommend. Though I do agree that lots of other factors are likely in play, everything from fear to bigotry.
And yes, copy whatever you'd like.
Thanks
Denis
Denis, I also thank you for your very reasoned words and insight. I served in the Air Force for 30 years. I had a support type job so I was not in direct combat. I have a number of friends who were in combat in the AF and other branches of the military. As a Christian, I have and still do pray for wisdom for civilian and military leaders. But I must admit that I have struggled with feeling compassion toward terrorists and the various aberrant Islamic groups in the Middle East. Having said that, I do recognize that this is my own sin. You are quite right, all people, ALL, are created in the image of a Holy God. That alone means they deserve dignity. I'm afraid that many Americans may view events like the killing of Osama Bin Laden in a much too simple, jingoistic way (America good, terrorists bad). So I applaud you for your willingness to bring civility and insight into something that is very complicated and not thought about enough. I apologize for my lack of clarity. I think your comments concerning the use of drones are equally valid. For not having served in the military, you bring much needed discernment and wisdom to a topic that many civilians don't think and talk enough about. Thanks and God bless you and Margie. Dave W.
Hi Mr. Denis,
"We need to talk" when you see the phrase, I wanted to talk about.
I am writing from Turkey. (North zone, Unye district)
I agree with your blog views.
Today's local daily newspapers from Ünye, I'm talking about you.
Selaam, the other end of the world, from Unye...
Valrici:
Indeed these topics are worldwide in their significance and will continue to be. And I am glad there are thoughtful people willing to discuss them in many different places. May you be blessed today. And thank you for commenting.
Denis
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