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I've spent much of my life in the Baptist church. First, a small rural one and now one that is one building and a few more rich members away from being a mega church. I complain, often, about the attacks on "non-submissive" women, the rampant homophobia, and my distrust of some oily pastors. But, thanks to the guilt a lifetime of Sunday School instilled in me and, to be fair, because I am thoroughly invested in call-and-response, gospel, and vibrant services, I still meekly attend. And, when it comes right down to it, I have an unshakeable faith in Christ and the tenets of Christianity.
But more and more, I'm believing religion--in our time--is often little more than a sanctified veil for bigotry. It makes people feel good to be able to rationalize and act on their hatred for others with the "word of God." The last sermon I heard seemed little more than degradation, prejudice, and judgment of eternal damnation sprinkled liberally with Bible verses.
That's been bothering me for a while now and Sunday just amplified it. No bright conclusion here--I have yet to figure it all out.
3 comments:
I would say don't let folks blur spirituality and religion for you. Your spiritual life will always be about your personal relationship with Christ--a lot of folks who have "religion" don't have that. How people bend and twist religious doctrines for their own political purposes is really out of your hands. I think.
I understand your thoughts. I was raised much in the same way you were (except Methodist). As an adult I have struggled with my spiritual life continuously. I too, belive in Christ and Christianity. However, there are times where I question some of things that happen in the church. I think that is natural and to be expected. Otherwise, we don't grow and change, if we don't question.
Elle,
Question about your views on homosexuality.... Would you prefer your seven year old be hetrosexual or homosexual? If you could make the call which would it be?
On this homosexual subject, I have seen the words bigot and hate used to characterize someone who doesn't agree with PC thinking. Tolerance should extend to everyone including conservative Christians, don't you think?
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