Sloganeering

Your word is truth (John 17:17).

What are you against? Does that seem like a strange question? Think about it. We live in a time where nobody wants to be labeled anti-anything. To be opposed to something seems negative, seems narrow-minded, seems mean-spirited and ugly. Of course people are still opposed to things; they just look for a positive way to market their views. Instead of being anti-abortion, you identify yourself as pro-life. Instead of being against big government, you say that you support limited government. Naturally, the opposition is always quick to assign a negative label whenever possible. If you oppose gay marriage, you are identified as homophobic. If you care about the environment, you’re called a tree-hugger. Do you see how the game is played?

People have a broad range of opinions on most everything. It’s sad that so many would rather hide behind slogans instead of talking openly and honestly about the issues. This is why congress can’t get things done—each party slaps a label on the other side, and repeats the same talking points when interviewed. Listening, asking questions, seeking common ground and using gentle persuasion seem to be skills that few people have anymore.

It’s okay to be against some things—in fact, God expects it. The Bible says, what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? (2 Corinthians 6:14) Our LORD demands that we oppose those things which have their roots in corruption. Sadly, each of us is quick to assume that we know the difference between what is moral and what is immoral. But with our minds clouded by dark urges and irrational thinking, we often end up leading the fight for the wrong side. We need the holy LORD to reveal what is right and good and proper. Without the clarity made possible by His wisdom, we can never be sure that our position on any matter is the correct one.

We humans are a prickly bunch—we don’t like to be disagreed with, and we’re slow to come around to a different point of view. And so the Bible urges us to share God’s message with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). His words are too important to remain hidden behind slogans and sound bites. Important things must be discussed openly and honestly.