There is something I’ve been pondering I would like to share with you. If you would share your feedback. Is it ok to call people things that are less than flattering? Is it ok, permissible to call out or be rude in a serious or confrontational situation?
Here is the basis for my question, in a discussion on social media, one individual told another he was much smarter, tools the individual to admit he was mentally outclassed. He then called him an ignoramus multiple times, then tossed out some Theological labels. I addresses the situation, pointing out the problem of being rude. The individual declared he was simply condemning heresy. Was he justified?
It seems a cut and dry, the Bible tells us only to build one another up. This is problematic for me because Jesus had a tendency to use less than flattering language. Brood of vipers, white washed tombs, hypocrite, blind guides. Jesus could be pretty harsh. Paul had his moments, calling the church in Galatia foolish. The scriptures could be hard on some folks.
Jesus used harsh language, so does this justify calling someone an ignoramus? Here is where I see a huge difference. Jesus never used harsh language to win an argument. Most of the time, we use harsh words to belittle our opponent to win the argument. The foundation is pride. We are so intent on being right. Jesus was speaking truth, the spiritual condition of the religious leaders was not in question. This is who they were, Jesus looked into their hearts.
When we belittle each other for very ungodly reasons. We mock one another to win arguments, to amuse ourselves and to feed our pride. Is this alway the case? Are there times this sort of rhetoric is appropriate? Is there a time we use harsh language for constructive purposes? Should we ever call someone an ignoramus? What do you think?
“But I say to you that everyone who continues to be angry with his brother or harbors malice (enmity of heart) against him … and whoever says, You cursed fool! [You empty-headed idiot!] shall be liable to and unable to escape the hell (Gehenna) of fire.” (Matthew 5:22 AMP)
Thanks Max, perfect verse for the discussion.
Dan, some of the meanest people on the planet are church folks! As for me, I only cuss what needs to be cussed! ;^)
Dan, First, I’ve been guilty of belittling my discussion “opponents.” More several years ago. Second, I see it way too much among brothers in discussions here and several other blogs I frequent. Some of it makes me feel embarrassed sometimes to call myself a Christian. Well not really, but you get what I mean. We often assume the worst of those we disagree with. Where is: Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in… Read more »
Les,
Being a Presbyterian – I’m sure you are used to rude behavior and such on Baptist blogs!
Good thing, again since you’re a Presby, it’s a good thing that many times you were probably too drunk to remember! Lol. 😉
Dan,
Since I’m never rude and never call people names – this blog post offers no benefit to me. (Tongue planted firmly in cheek.)
Seriously Dan, I need reminders like this. Thanks.
Tarheel,
Well I expect it. It’s predestinated that I should take the shots on these Baptist blogs. Churchill said, “but in the morning I’ll be sober but you will still be ugly.” Now I think he was just rude to say that to Lady whatever her name was. Just kidding Tarheel. Not applying that to you brother. I don’t even drink. 🙂
Blessings brother.
“Not applying that to you brother. I don’t even drink.”
And sometimes I jest a bit.
Hey, wait – which of those statements is a jest!?
2nd one.
In the context of our world, even if I thought name calling had a Biblical warrant, wisdom would dictate that you holster that particular weapon.
Nothing is gained by insulting your opposition; my father (who had quite the temper himself) always reminded me: violence is the product of a limited mind trying to express itself. As Christians we hold the Truth, let’s wield that weapon and leave insults on the shelf.
So where do phrases like “White washed tombs” and “slow-bellies” fit in to our discussion? I too think that name calling is less than Christian behavior you dork! Oops sorry. Got carried away. 😉
Clark, A Lutheran pastor (LCMS) wrote: “It would be very easy to take one extreme or another on this question. The first natural position, taken by your high school guidance counselor, is that namecalling is never okay. The Christian analog to this position might say that namecalling is ipso facto a sin. The problem with this is Jesus. He actually does this. A lot. For a rather strong example, read Jesus’ words against the scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23:1-36. It seems wise for one to take a position that avoids calling Jesus a sinner. An objection to this is… Read more »
By the way, I do think in discussions, particularly on blogs re theological discussions, it may be appropriate to use some “names.” But what I see mostly is “name calling” not done with grace…or so it seems. For instance, one may call someone a hypocrite in his position on some theological point. My opinion is that if one thinks his “opponent” in the discussion is taking a position hypocritically (to his practice or other positions), it seems to me better to say, “Brother it appears that your position may be hypocritical.” Saying it that way seems to me to be… Read more »