Sobering, challenging and helpful reflections. You reminded me of how last year, my family was surveilled and physically intimidated by a pastor that was a proud participant in Jan 6 at the Capital. Can’t get into the story because of an NDA, but there is a connection between the professed spiritually and the willingness to use force and coercion. Also, I just posted an abridged text from Sebastian Castellio that might interest you. Here are some excerpts that resonate with your post:
“But there where cruelty and derision exist, fasts and prayers find no favour whatsoever with God…[T]hough you may pray and fast as much as you like, the Lord will hide His eyes from you, unless you mend your ways.”
“I advise you, O preachers and teachers, as much of the one side as of the other, to give this matter mature consideration and to remember the words of the Heavenly Teacher, who spoke as follows: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” From this it clearly follows that the firebrands, who favour and incite war, are wretched, for they shall be called children of the devil. Do not think that it is a small scandal and sin to incite princes and nations to war.”
Thank you for this articulation. I have been bothered by the language around prayer the last several years and it was difficult for me to explain in a way others could hear. This is very helpful.
Our church in Atlanta is currently going through the book of Jude. The call to contend for the faith is challenging & exposing, & I appreciate your efforts to respond to that call!
Sobering, challenging and helpful reflections. You reminded me of how last year, my family was surveilled and physically intimidated by a pastor that was a proud participant in Jan 6 at the Capital. Can’t get into the story because of an NDA, but there is a connection between the professed spiritually and the willingness to use force and coercion. Also, I just posted an abridged text from Sebastian Castellio that might interest you. Here are some excerpts that resonate with your post:
“But there where cruelty and derision exist, fasts and prayers find no favour whatsoever with God…[T]hough you may pray and fast as much as you like, the Lord will hide His eyes from you, unless you mend your ways.”
“I advise you, O preachers and teachers, as much of the one side as of the other, to give this matter mature consideration and to remember the words of the Heavenly Teacher, who spoke as follows: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” From this it clearly follows that the firebrands, who favour and incite war, are wretched, for they shall be called children of the devil. Do not think that it is a small scandal and sin to incite princes and nations to war.”
https://open.substack.com/pub/onceaweek/p/advice-to-a-desolate-america?r=16589c&utm_medium=ios
Thanks for sharing this Aaron. I can’t imagine what you’ve faced. Grateful for your courage & witness.
Perhaps this is why Jesus told us to pray in secret, not standing on the street corners or public places.
Thank you for this articulation. I have been bothered by the language around prayer the last several years and it was difficult for me to explain in a way others could hear. This is very helpful.
Our church in Atlanta is currently going through the book of Jude. The call to contend for the faith is challenging & exposing, & I appreciate your efforts to respond to that call!