Ask the Pastor

By Pastor Scott Denham of Harvest Fellowship, Shambaugh, IA
Clarinda Herald Journal Publication Date : 11/14/2007

Hated In Jesus Name?

"Could you comment on those protesters who are showing up at military funerals, waving signs like, 'God Hates Fags', and 'Thank God for Dead Soldiers'?"

This is the error of Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas, and its founder, Fred Phelps. This independent church is not affiliated with any group and its members are persuaded that U.S. military deaths are God's judgment for America's tolerance of homosexuality in the military.

This fringe group crosses the country seeking high-profile exposure for their protest at the expense of grieving families. It is unconscionable that, in the name of God, these people denigrate the brave sacrifices of our fallen heroes. With a calloused and mocking air, they add insult to injury. However, though we find this group abhorrent, we should not stoop to their level by hating them in return.

The issue is not their disapproval of homosexual behavior, neither is it their belief in a God who judges sin; rather, the problem lies in the 'spirit' in which they conduct such protests. It is a spirit contrary to the love of God revealed in Christ. Jesus' disciples, James and John, angered by the Samaritans rejection of the Lord, asked permission to "call fire down" upon the people. Jesus "rebuked" the two for such a judgmental attitude (Luke 9:52).

All disciples of Jesus need to deal with those with whom they disagree in the proper spirit—exhibiting a heart of mercy and love. Jesus is a "friend of sinners" (Luke 7:34), who came to "save" not to "condemn" (John3:17). He is a God who is reluctant to judge, preferring to show mercy (Lam 3:31-33).

2 Timothy 2:24-26 teaches us to live respectfully in a pluralistic society: "And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone." The Scripture goes on to say, that by doing so, we are more likely to be a force for good in the lives of people. As in the fairy tale of "The Sun and the Wind," the morale of the story is this: "Gentle persuasion is often more effective than brute force."

That haters exist is no surprise. That hatred be 'sanctified' under the banners of a so-called Christian Church is reprehensible.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)