At th V. Tech Convocation, a Muslim , a Buddhist, a Jew, and a Christian cleric all spoke. The Muslim drew attention to Allah and quoted the Koran. The Buddhist drew attention to the Dalai Lama and quoted him. The Jew drew attention to the words of the writer of the book of Ecclesiastes. And then a Christian, a Lutheran no less, got up and spoke of the value of all faith traditions and then spoke in vaguities about light and life prevailing over darknesss. Not one word about Jesus, not even the mention of his name. Dang the Christian. How weak has our faith become? Have we nothing to offer in the face of death during the season of Easter? “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” - Luke 18:8
Dang the Christian
Unfortunately Phil, nominalism has become the norm for every Christian group, Lutherans, Orthodox, Roman Catholics, Episcopalians, etc. With secularism on the rise, being a Christian, for many people, is simply belonging to a certain group or country club for social reasons. Living the Christ-like life and defending the faith are not as important. Unfortunately, I think, merely believing (in whatever, for that matter) has become the standard for a Christian. If we join not love to that belief (especially if that belief is rooted in Christ), then we do not believe but try to deceive God, to paraphrase St. Maximos the Confessor.
This phenomenon is not only the result of the onslaught of liberal Christianity and its adherents, but, especially poor catechesis. Lutherans should not be the only ones insulted by such a proclamation of apathy and lukewarmness. Christ our Lord even says that the lukewarm will be cast into perdition.
BTW, was this Lutheran an ELCA, LCMS, WELS or what? Anyone know?
Biographical Info:
http://www.lmlc.org/pastorsinformation.php
ELCA Chris.
Phil,
ELCA doesn’t surprise me at all, unfortunately. Luther is probably holding his head in disbelief that such wishiwashiness is what qualifies one for a called and ordained servant of the Lord.
Is there a transcript available of exactly what he said? I’d really like to see one.
http://www.hokiesports.com/convocation.html
Video of event.
I found this audio file from the ELCA website of the “pastor” who gave a talk. I wasn’t able to open it on my computer; maybe someone else has some more luck with it.
http://media.ELCA.org/audionews/070417.mp3
Worked for me Chris and that is the light of love, no Jesus BS I heard…
Phil,
Could you clarify your last statement? I seemed to have missed what you were trying to say.