Judgment

Over the weekend a pastor posted his thoughts on the March 29th release of a book by another pastor. The topic of the book is a controversial one in today's theological discussions. 


Please remember that the book has not been published, and will not be until the end of this month...28 days from now. That did not stop the scathing comments or the interaction on blogs and other social media.


The most amazing comment was a brief tweet by a well known pastor who simply said "farewell" to the author.


Really?


I know that often promotional copies of books are sent ahead for people to read and review. The purpose is to create a "stir" so people will purchase the book when it is released. Book tours are scheduled so the author can briefly talk about his writings and autograph the book.


But the book has not even been released and vitriolic comments are flying around the internet and accusations are being made. Judgments are even being pronounced on the author and his ministry.


And, remember, the book has not even been released.


I just finished a book last night entitled, To Change the World, by James Davison Hunter. In the book he talks about some of the reasons Christians are not more effective in changing the world. When I read all of the comments about the book to be released on March 29th, it confirms what Hunter says in his book. 


He says, "If Christians cannot extend grace through faithful presence, within the body of believers, they will not be able to extend grace to those outside."


What would happen if we waited for the release of the book and then read the book? What would happen if after we read the book, we were charitable in our comments and thoughts? What would happen if we extended grace through "faithful presence" to the author of this book as well as others?


By now you are wondering about the title of the book and its author...Love Wins: A Book About Heaven and Hell and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived by Rob Bell. March 29th the book will be released and I will read it. Until then, the words of Dr. Bill McCumber, my former New Testament professor, are appropriate to all who have weighed in on the books content..."you might as well save your breath to cool your coffee." That's not a judgment...that's a fact.