"What’s the
lesson here? There are many. But to focus on just one, this story is a reminder
that no amount of cultural sophistication or intelligence will absolve the
Christian from being seen as a backward-thinking bigot. I say this because
there’s an evangelical temptation that believes that if we can just communicate
orthodox beliefs in the right way, if we can appear as nuanced as possible,
then those on the other side of the aisle will see us as goodwill, reasonable
actors. We’re tempted to think that finding the right aesthetic or tone will
resolve the underlying tensions that exist when Christianity confronts the
world with an ethic that the world does not want to hear. We think we can have
our cake and our popularity, too. Chow is a living example of how this approach
is naive.
Winsomeness
as the utmost priority for Christian faithfulness in the public square will
leave individuals with no place to go when this kind of witness still earns us
the reproach of culture. As Chow’s example demonstrates, we should be willing
to share our convictions without the fear of what reprisal will come.
Be gracious.
Be winsome. Be civil. Be polite. Of course, never be less than these things,
but at the same time, realize that to be a Christian, more may be required of
you, like sharing what’s on your conscience and being willing to pay the price
for it. Your kindness will still get you in trouble."
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