“Love Us or Hate Us” Dialogue

September 7, 2007 in Other Stuff with 3 Comments

Because of family and ministry priorities/focus, I don’t often take the time to really engage in any serious dialogue on my blog. I enjoy the conversation. Wish I had more time for it. But, I’m in the season of life where I really have to prioritize where I invest my time.

That said, I knew the "Love Us or Hate Us" post would generate some push back. So, I’ve taken that opportunity to reveal a little bit of my personal passions and convictions. You may still disagree with me–even vehemently, but maybe it will help you understand the heart behind it.

Just so you know, I’m still learning. There’s a lot I don’t know about life. There are mysteries about God that I don’t comprehend. I’m not perfect. And neither is my understanding. I’m still a work in progress.

That said, here’s the conversation generated by "Love Us or Hate Us."

3 Responses to ““Love Us or Hate Us” Dialogue”

  1. Mark Broadbent September 7, 2007 at 12:58 pm #

    Hi Tony

    Just read the dialogue on the other post. I want to thank you for modelling how to deal with criticism. Thank you for engaging the issue with an honest desire to learn and grow.

    I get mentored by a guy who is an awesome leader and the principal of a seminary. He really values open discussion and debate.

    He once told me that you’ll never truly come to a balanced conclusion on an issue until you’ve understood and felt the weight of both sides of an arguement.

    Tony – I think you’re honest search and questioning provides an awesome example of how we can do that.

    Really appreciated reading it.

  2. Leslie White September 7, 2007 at 1:31 pm #

    Tony,

    Thank you so much for your calm and rational participation in this discussion. Personally, I think discussion and debate is a GOOD thing, IF folks can be calm and respectful of each other’s views (even when disagreeing).
    When 2 or more people are discussing their passion for saving the lost, there is the potential for a great many things to be learned from those perspectives.
    The only 2 things I might add here is that 1. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, ANYHOW a person not knowing Jesus comes to meet Him and surrender to HIM, is a reason to celebrate!
    2.Why does anyone expect that
    one model for the way to do
    church would or could minister
    to so many different kinds of people?

  3. clay burkle September 13, 2007 at 3:35 pm #

    Thanks for the public dialogue. Although a bit impersonal (but such is this beast called the net)… it is healthy to receive & respond to reasoned critical response. It would be no fun if everyone loved us.

    Which leads to the question I’ve been pondering since reading this dialogue about a week ago….

    Do you think we are defined by those who hate us?