Dialog With A Christian Postmodern Part 2
“You know, Alex, ‘pro-life’ is really a misnomer. They believe in protecting life only within their interpretation of the Bible. If we are to take the commandment “thou shalt not kill” at face value, then we should be opposed to all killing including capital punishment, wars, and the killing of animals, besides the obvious premeditated murder. How many pro-lifers protest capital punishment or war? I can understand why pro-choice proponents see pro-life as a hypocritical message.”After another moment of shocked silence, I responded. “Jane, first of all the sixth commandment is, “Thou shall not MURDER.” Which is the willful taking of innocent (human) life. It is clear that the intent of this command was not about killing in general, human or otherwise, since God sanctioned capital punishment, animal sacrifice, harvesting of crops, and many of Israel’s campaigns against its enemies. So, no, not very many pro-lifers would protest just war or capital punishment since these are not about the taking of innocent life.”
Continuing, I said, “I know that you revere Jesus’ expression of love and compassion. However, one of the ways Jesus demonstrated this during his ministry was to be the advocate and defender of the powerless, voiceless, and unwanted in society. And who today is more voiceless, powerless, and unwanted than the unborn? That is why Christians who take up the banner of pro-choice in legal and respectful expressions of protest are reflecting the advocacy of their Savior.”
In a clever shift of gears Jane re-directed the conversation to the gay controversy.
“You’re right, Alex, Jesus was an advocate and defender of the victims of society. I wonder how He would stand on the issue of homosexuality today? They have certainly been victims of persecution. How often have we seen them ridiculed and discriminated against? I am ashamed to say that in the past I have laughed at the jokes about them and looked at them in disgust. But no more. Because that is not what Jesus would do if He walked today among us. I know this because I know Him!”
Knowing this could be a powder keg, especially since she had recently converted to the Angelican church, I said, “Great point, Jane, let me get a cup of coffee, and let’s pick up on that thought. By the way can I get you one?”
“Thanks, no.”
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