Debates That Are Disgusting (By Gary Patterson)

 

Debates That Are Disgusting (By Gary Patterson) 

 "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame." (1 Peter 3:15-16) 

 I have been a fan of debating. I have enjoyed hearing both sides of a subject or an issue, being presented, and discussed in a positive, respectful way. I watched some of the vice presidential debate this week, and I thought that it was more of a docile experience than what past debates have been. 

 It's alright to disagree, It's all right to passionately express one's opinion on the issues of concern. But when we spend most of the time attacking each other's character, that's where I draw the line. There is no need for this, and it just lowers the esteem that viewers have of each of the candidates. 

 Peter in his first letter to the Christians of Asia Minor, encouraged his readers to honor the Lord Jesus Christ. To see Him as holy (set apart to be first in our lives). We are to be prepared to make a defense for anyone who asks us the reason for the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. 

 We are to debate this precious subject with gentleness, and respect, having a good conscience, so that when we are slandered for our faith, and commitment to the Lord, our good behavior will not shame us, but will put to shame those who revile us. 

 In this race to the White House, it has been a back and forth event of name calling, and mud-slinging. I for one, am sick of it. I'll be glad when the election is over, so we can move past this terrible negative exchange. The candidates not only disagree, but they come across as hating each other. And the question that comes to my mind is: What do our young people think about this kind of behavior? It is definitely not acceptable, and very disheartening.  

When we are called to stand on our Christian convictions, may we do it in the way Peter describes; to honor Christ by all that we say and do! That is a witness, the world needs to see! GP 

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