The Theology of Self Acceptance

In the last post, I suggested that self-reflection is needed so we do not mistake our reasons for the things we do or believe. Reasons should support our actions, because reason guards from carelessness. Carelessness is not living soberly, and that will inevitably lead to mistakes, and mis-steps. Tonight, I was thinking of what reason (theology) I had to think that Christian faith was important or of value.

The main emphasis to me was the personal aspect of God's love. God could love "even me", and that was especially good news. I was not a mistake, a product of a failed marriage, but was "planned in the councils of God's intent, purpose and plan". This was indeed inspiring and led me to give, sacrifice and serve the Church in various ways over the years, not to mention things done in secret.

God's love was not the only "good news", but that others were commanded to love me, too. And love was an expectation of mine. Love meant acceptance, which was a deep need in my human heart. I belonged and I believed. It was a reality to my psyche.

These hopes and human needs were part of my humanity, a small child's need for reassurance that she was "okay". What is true is true, as there is no special revelation, only the revelation of what really is, and that is; although my grandfather was my 'father' in all sense that I could know, my need for family, and acceptance was not met in early childhood. What to do? Continue to be victimized by such a background? No, one must move on and grow beyond their childish needs and deal with their griefs in a real world, and in a real way, not a religious way. When one suppliments anything for reality in a real world, it is a kind of denial. And denial is not getting to the root of any problem.

What does this mean? It means that there is work to be done in my psyche, and there is work to be done in my family of origin, if they are willing. And I am sure as I journey down the road to 'truth and reality, I will learn other things that need addressing and change or re-orientation.

It also means that the Church is looked at as a social institution that is not a nursery school. One must evaluate whether the Church is a place where one chooses to associate. What kind of Church does one "fit"? And how does one reconcile faith with such a view?

Faith is not about the trimmings that so many people argue over. Faith is about how one lives their life and why. The reasons are important because one must be wise, and discerning in prioritizing their values. Life is short and loved ones are important, more important than anything else.

"Specialialness" and Divine Revelation

All fundamentalists and many evangelicas believe that they have "special revelation". These believe that Scripture reveals "God's plan" and "God's way". These people remain within the "system" of biblical revelation to "defend" their positions. They, for the most part, fear other areas of knowledge, because "special revelation" has to be "above" average, everyday knowledge. Their reading of Scripture and "revelations" are sanctioned due to their belief in the Holy Spirit. No one can convince these believers otherwise, as they have "an in-road to God".

There is something highly wrong and dangerous with such a view. While the Church has maintained it's narrative of Jesus, Christ and Church, those that adhere to this narrative must also submit to Church authority.

Church authority nor is any authority immune to "use" their sense of "entitlement" to further their own agenda and goals. And this is why no organization or people should be above our nation's laws.

Special priviledge is not the "American Way", no matter what Scripture may deem "right"! Slavery was outlawed and patronage is dubious when it comes to our American ideals, as all are equal under the law.

A Radical's Call to Faith

Radicals, of all kinds, understand themselves as "special emmisaries" of one sort or another. They believe that they have "special revelation" that supercedes all other kinds of knowledge. These people are not rational, as they believe that faith is the "lone" and "sole" reason for life itself. They believe that they "know God" in some mystical experiential way or in some "specially revealed text". These people are malinformed and are not open to any "different" information. Their "world" is already determined by their "world", so any "evidence" that contradicts their "understanding" is dismissed. Their very identity is tied up into their "world". These have no "self", as "self" has not developed beyond the dependent stage of a child.

This is Not saying that people of faith are all "wackos" or not mature people. No, the ones I am identifying are those that have an unhealthy need to understand their "world" as "absolute" and imposing upon others. People of faith can be reasonable and rational, while understanding that how they understand their "world" is a "fill in the gap" way of formulating things that are beyond our ability to really "know". It is mystery.

These radicals are filled with fear of everything from what they think, and read, to what they wear. These are superstitous people. They fear imposing and imminent danger if they do not "cross" their t's and dot their i's. They live in a very narrow and dark place, where ghosts and goblins exist and might any moment take their life.

I find that radicals are determined to "prove" their loyalty by sacrifice and service of many kinds. They believe that this proves something to God, others and themselves. They fear that they might not have faith, so they become obsessive and defensive about their faith. Challenging such people only leads them to personally attack their "assailant", or plan for 'revenge".

These radicals not only seek to "prove" faith but they are also competitive. They long for the accolades of honor for their faithful service and will kill themselves in carrying out heroic attempts at attaining "top dog" status. They truly believe Hebrews, when it says to run the race, as if only one will win. They want to win at all costs.

Although I have reservations, if not outright abhorrence, in some regards to these radicals, at least they are willing to be consistent to their commitments, and ideals. For this, they can be applauded. I just don't think that being so OCD is healthy.