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July 17, 2007
Evangelicals at a Crossroads?
David Brody at The Brody File is thinking about the passions and political influence of evangelicals. He writes:
The bread and butter issues of abortion and traditional marriage have started to become watered down. Now, all indications are that Evangelicals are becoming passionate about other issues too. Immigration, the environment and maybe, most of all terrorism.
I'm working with a number of the leaders who are what the New York Times called recently "the new breed of evangelicals," and I do not believe that this new breed is any less passionate about the strong issues of the last 25 years--abortion and traditional marriage. They are now also passionate about new issues--such as the environment and international aid--that broaden the agenda. But it is wrong to assume that their new interests in any way change their passion on abortion and family. That's like saying that a new baby in the family lessens a parent's love for the other children.
However, there are very few evangelicals who are going to vote for a pro-abortion candidate because of of his or her stance on climate or action on Darfur. Simple as that. There are some, but not enough to make a political difference.
But candidates who are pro-life and protect the traditional family, and are concerned about climate change, genocide in Africa, and compassionate common sense on immigration and other issues--they can count on the passionate support of a whole new breed of evangelicals. And it is a breed that is growing, including the next generation of voters.
Posted by Jim at July 17, 2007 07:25 AM
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Great points. Life issues will always be front and center for me, but I am interested in many other issues as well -- including the environment and helping the poor. Of course, I've always been interested in those.
My only question is about this comment:
"compassionate common sense on immigration"
That sounds like you may lean towards lawbreaking and open borders. Is that where you think Evangelicals are? If so, I absolutely don't agree. Christians should be courteous and welcoming to visitors in their home, but that doesn't mean that they put them in their wills and give them keys to the house. I believe that some Catholics are pushing this (maddeningly so) because they are trying to refill pews and collection plates after the priest molestation debacle. However, I don't see much support for ignoring or violating immigration laws amongst Evangelicals.
Or did I read you wrong on that one?
Posted by: RightOnPeachtree at July 17, 2007 06:49 PM
Interesting that the term "compassionate common sense" would make you believe that I lean toward open borders and lawbreaking--neither of which makes much sense to me. But as Christians we certainly need to look beyond the talking points of both parties and determine a Scriptural response to the crisis and a compassionate response to the millions of people who are involved. I think I'll write more on this soon.
Posted by: Jim at July 17, 2007 11:27 PM
That term sounded like the "compassionate conservatism" of George Bush. And we know his policy on illegal immigration. That's what set off bells for me.
This is a hot-button issue for me. I'm not parroting talking points from anybody. My cousin (19yo) was murdered by an illegal alien about six weeks ago. She would be alive today if our laws had been enforced. Do I forgive him? Yes. Do I excuse his lawbreaking and ultimate murderous act? No.
And I realize all illegals aren't murderers, but all illegals have disobeyed our nation's laws. That's not okay from a Christian perspective.
My main point is that I definitely don't think Evangelicals are in favor of the massive illegal immigration we're now experiencing. I know that the SBC has spoken out against it. They represent a pretty big percentage of Evangelicals right there.
Posted by: RightOnPeachtree at July 18, 2007 08:50 PM
Ugh. I'm so sorry about your cousin. I'll pray for your family; and I wouldn't think of arguing with you on this issue right now, given your family's loss.
Posted by: Jim at July 18, 2007 09:28 PM
Thanks.
On a related note, my suspicions about the Catholic church may be unfounded. According to the article below, they aren't hurting for members or donations.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19833186/
I still find it disgusting that they are encouraging and abetting folks who have knowingly broken (and are breaking) the laws of our country. If they really want to help, let these folks go to their home countries and do mission work in those countries.
Posted by: RightOnPeachtree at July 18, 2007 11:22 PM