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Debate versus Denigrate
Yesterday I read an article by someone disagrees with some of my ideas about church planting (launching large, building the church from the outside in, etc.). He wrote a great article and made some great points that offered alternatives to my views.
I actually wrote him and congratulated him on his analysis while clarifying some of my own positions. We exchanged several emails that were respectful and, I believe, God honoring. It was healthy and productive.
It reminded me that there is a difference between ‘debate‘ and ‘denigrate.’ I love it when Church Leaders debate. I’m sickened when we denigrate.
Maybe this is on my mind because I’m doing a teaching series right now on the power of words (Tongue Pierced) or maybe God is trying to remind me to use my words to build up rather than tear down. Either way, I want to remove any hint of denigration from my life.
“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight,
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” – Psalm 19:14
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# 1 | Author: Scott Cheatham
05/13/08 9:17 AM | Comment Link |
I like the distinction you’ve made between “debate” and “denigrate”. So much of what’s on the blogosphere is denigration in the name of real debate. It’s sad since we are all on the same team striving to see people get saved and serve the Lord. Good thoughts Nelson.