I’ve had some e-mails and comments very insulting toward local newspaper columnist Roger Ray. (Don’t waste your time…they aren’t going to be posted here if you insult the man and not be critical of his views.) If you don’t know who he is, Roger is a former pastor and far-left political advocate who writes the “From The Left” column in the Springfield News-Leader. I’ve been critical of his columns on many occasions (and will continue to be so) because of his far-left political views and his negative attitudes toward Christians and Christianity. However, I am not going to join the chorus of those condemning him for this recent admission that he does not believe Jesus to be the son of God. To be sure, that will boost his popularity among Christian haters but it’s not something that someone who calls themselves Christian should be using as a weapon against Roger Ray.
Yes, he is a former pastor. I’m receiving e-mails saying I should condemn him for being a false teacher and for leading people astray for the truth of God and all kinds of ridiculous accusations. Now, I’m not saying they may not be true. I have no way to know that. However, I do know that at the present he doesn’t believe the tenets of Christianity. What that means in the future is that you have to keep that in mind when you see his rants against churches or Christians or attacks on pastors. One thing you have to give Roger Ray is that he doesn’t hide his true feelings so you can get an idea of his views from his columns in the News-Leader.
Just remember one thing…regardless of his religious status he’s not incorrect that Christians need to focus on the poor, needy and hurt in our communities. If you’re one of those celebrating Roger’s admission that he doesn’t believe in Christ’s divinity (which you shouldn’t be), do NOT allow those feelings to hide the fact that he does make some valid points about churches and Christians not fulfilling their call according to Christ. If churches were really filling the needs of those in need we wouldn’t have the government providing welfare or unemployment. To agree with Roger Ray on the issues of taking care of the needy is not endorsing his other political positions and other positions on Jesus’ teachings which can be questionable at best.
So if you’re one of those who have sent me e-mails or comments urging condemnation of Roger Ray the man while at the same time calling yourselves Christian I would say perhaps you need to pray and look at your actions toward Roger. If you really believe he is a sinner who has lost his way then Christian teaching says you should show him love and pray for him while not bending to his views. Be real and acknowledge his political, social and religious positions now but don’t insult or attack him for his past as a pastor.
I want to commend Mr. Ray on his intellectual and spiritual courage. Congratulations!
Ray’s views are just that. His views. I do think he speaks for many (Christians and former Christians) who are disillusioned with the church, although his particular theological beliefs may or may not be shared by many. We forget it is patriot to question. Christians should be critical of our government and our churches.
You are right that we Christians cannot jump on the hate bandwagon. As for the issue of Christ not being divine, I’m not really sure why he bothered to write that. It seemed off point to me. There it is. He would not be the first to not feel the presence of God. Mother Theresa did the same during the last half of her life.
We would do good to remember that he does not speak for all liberal or left Christians either. He’s just one guy who writes.
Good discussion. I think sometimes religious people (regardless of faith or religion) get upset when someone of their own faith questions things. I think it scares people because deep down they have some questions that they are afraid will lead them “astray”. Fear drives many things in this life.
Jack:
Thanks for the comment.
I agree with you…there is a lot to be disillusioned with in regards to the average church in America. In many ways, I feel similar to Mr. Ray in regards to a lot of churches not doing what Jesus called us to do.
You’re right about fear driving so many people. It’s a shame people are afraid to ask questions because the answers can strengthen you more than you realize.
Roger Ray is welcome to believe whatever he feels. If I recall, Jesus asked us not to judge. As to those who feel disillusioned with the church - it is a commen ailment. If Jesus was still in it, he would roll over in his grave when he sees the big business that is Church Corp.