Beyond Belief

On Facebook the other day, a friend posted part of Louis Theroux's second documentary on Westboro Baptist Church.  I ended up watching all four parts.  There are absolutely no words to describe how horribly twisted this is.  Here is a litle four minute snippit that sums up the overall tone.

At the risk of following their lead by picking out and using random verses as defence...

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.  John 3:16-17

They testify here that their job is NOT "to win souls to Christ" but rather to "make what is already in the hearts [of people] come out of their mouth".  But I don't see their protests convincing anyone of their sin, much less spurring repentance.  It just makes people mad.  And it turns people away.  Fear is never a good motivator.  And it's certainly never a motivator of true change.  Acting out of fear is self-centered and self-preserving (whether I'm running from a bear or running up the aisle at the altar call to avoid hell).

Anyway, I didn't really intend to say so much.  I'd love to hear your thoughts and comments.  And what scriptures pop into your head.

Dear God, You have the power to speak truth into the hearts of these angry people.  You have the power to soften their hearts, to humble them before you.  Give them the courage to listen to your voice above all others.  Show them how to focus on you and share the hope they have in you.  Help me in each of these areas as well, Father and let me be a vessel of your grace in the face of such hatred.  Amen