VERITAS VOS LIBERABIT

"The truth shall make you free"

Friday, November 13, 2009

Quote: "The Pulpit is Responsible..."

"If there is a decay of conscience, the pulpit is responsible for it. If the public press lacks moral discernment, the pulpit is responsible for it. If the church is degenerate and worldly, the pulpit is responsible for it. If the world loses its interest in Christianity, the pulpit is responsible for it. If Satan rules in our halls of legislation, the pulpit is responsible for it. If our politics become so corrupt that the very foundations of our government are ready to fall away, the pulpit is responsible for it." ~ Rev. Charles Finney (1792-1875)

2 comments:

  1. That would be true in as much as the pulpit could not inspire and help the ears it has find wisdom.
    We can't MAKE them listen, and for a society that is already in rebellion against the Providence that made it possible, such an attempt would be doomed to failure. The tragedy of having free will is having the ability to reject truth in order to chase a mirage. One need look no further than the ongoing "debates" over 'Climate change' and 'Health Care Reform'. Certainly, one could find ways to offer a fresh perspective on the gospel, but that can also be a very slippery slope, because it can become very easy to cherry pick from it in order to offer the world a thornless rose. It is a safer, and ultimately more honest course to present the truth as it has always been, and let the those who seek the wisdom of the Lord marvel at the unchanged bedrock that it is and remains.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I believe Finney's comments were directed to the pastors of his day. Though not knowing the exact date of this statement, nor the exact audience, I do know the era was one of raucus accusations and harsh antagonism (sound familiar?). The issue of slavery was coming to a head, and the very real possibility of cession was on the horizon. Finney was a man of firm words (as can be seen). And though there may be a bit of dramatics in his assertions, the fact remains... the ministers of his day needed to have a bigger impact upon the public dialog. Again, I can't begin to speculate as to the exact audience, however, I personally draw strength from this pastoral 'tirade'. Ministers SHOULD be heard on the tough issues of the day. If the Church is to be (as it was designed to be) the conscience of the state, then it must be heard. And to be heard, the preachers must speak out! No matter the cost! --That's my take on the matter ~ BlackRobe

    ReplyDelete