Cory Heidelberger, the man at Madville Times who is by his own definition unqualified to discuss theological matters, is again stepping out and stepping in it. Theologically speaking, that is.
Today Cory condemned Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin for telling the truth about Barack Obama's atrocious record as the most pro-abortion candidate in history, and for doing the important job the "mainstream" media refuses to do by exposing Barack Obama's association with unrepentant domestic terrorist Bill Ayers.
Cory then said he wants a "teachable moment" from the election. Okay, Cory; class is in session.
I never knew that it was wrong, Biblically or otherwise, to point out when a public official is either doing something wrong, condoning something wrong, or is displaying extremely poor judgment--especially when those things are relevant to his leadership of the country.
Cowardice and reluctance to call evil what it is have never been Christian virtues. Being afraid to rebuke the evil for their own good and for the good of society because someone might call you names (like "intolerant" or "homophobe" or "theocrat" or "Bible thumper") has never--that I've been able to find--been a spiritually commendable attribute.
But from a Biblical perspective, people of God have publicly pointing out the evil of government officials for a long, long time. From the Old Testament prophets like Jeremiah and Elijah to ones in the New Testament like John the Baptist.
Cory might recall from Sunday School that John the Baptist called out King Herod for his immorality and adultery. Was this an unchristian "personal attack?" Or was it speaking out against an evil and doing as God said we should do in Ezekiel 3:18?
He might also recall that Jesus also expressed his displeasure with Herod's wickedness in Luke chapter 13--even calling Herod names!
In fact, according to Cory's rather liberal (excuse the pun) interpretation of "personal attacks," Jesus may just have been the king of personal attacks. Many, many times Christ publicly criticized people for their evil--even with more name-calling them things like hypocrites, brood of vipers, blind guides, a "wicked and adulterous generation," son of hell, blind fools, blind men, whitewashed tombs, and snakes.
He might remember that Jesus' apostle Peter was pretty forthright with the Sanhedrin, speaking against them and their efforts to prevent the disciples from speaking the truth.
Cory might also recall that when the New Testament saint Stephen appeared before the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin, he engaged in a few, ah, personal attacks--particularly letting them have it in Acts 7:51-53
You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him—you who have received the law that was put into effect through angels but have not obeyed it."
When you take a closer look at the Bible, maybe Sarah Palin is wrong. Maybe she isn't being bold enough about the evil Barack Obama has condoned and promoted.
But at least she is speaking out about the truth and not allowing evil to be accepted for good--which is what Christians are supposed to do.
It's also what good citizens should do.
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