Quote:
Originally Posted by Real Realism
Wow. This hits so close to home, it's almost like looking in a mirror.
Months back, we had a "special service" announced just days beforehand...when our family had already made plans months ago to another (non-church) commitment. And then comments are made over the platform that if you "don't change your plans to attend this special service" (that we just announced, three days in advance) "you must not love children." What message is that sending to my children to raise them in this type of atmosphere where comments like undermine the spiritual authority we should have in our home? Not wanting to hi-jak this thread, but I just had to point out that it's a common theme, and others are struggling with very similar issues and decisions.
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That's so sad. When I hear that kind of thing I immediately realize that the man lacks the ability to speak before people properly.
I think that too many pastors resort to "shock jock" commentary and preaching. Oh, they sound "tough" and "in charge"... but the reality is... they are being crass and tactless. Maybe the orgs should require "sensitivity training", because this is a form of spiritual abuse and I don't think that pastors that do this are aware of it. What the pastor should have said is something more like...
"I think this special service is going to be life changing. I know we all sincerely love our children. And so, I feel in my spirit that you should make every effort possible to attend, even if it means that you might have to change a few plans. I assure you that you'll be blessed. If you can't make it, we're gonna miss ya. But be sure to pick up a tape or CD of the message as soon as you can. I'll talk to the sound people and see if we can give this message to parents for free. Please, only one tape or CD per family. Okay... let's get down to tonight's business... Turn with me to..."
But few men have that kind of gift when it comes to public address. Most just growl an admonition accompanied with a warning.
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