It seems impossible to avoid the labels of liberal or conservative. Whether we are discussing politics, theology, or life-philosophy, it appears that nearly everyone aligns him/herself with one or the other of these groups. Of course some prefer the term moderate or independent as a way of describing themselves, thinking they can avoid some of the stigma associated with either of the traditional depictions. While I can appreciate the mentality that often motivates this moderate/independent approach, it still seems that the liberal-conservative concepts are difficult to avoid. After all, we all spend a lot of time mainting certain things and altering other things. That is, we tend to defend (or at least assume) some beliefs, while simultaneously caring little about (even rejecting) other beliefs. This "take it" and "leave it" idea is a part of the fabric of human experience.
What few seem willing to do, however, is take a closer look at what produces our liberal or conservative stances in the first place. To put it plainly, why do some prefer conservativism and others liberalism? What factors lead us to our respective views?
Though I do not want to decry the use or usefulness of labels, I do think it is important to take a step back and ask some important questions. What is it, exactly, that we want to conserve, and why? Likewise, what positions should be held more loosely, and why?
My suggestions, therefore, would be the following:
+ Why should we believe anything at all? This is one of those deeply philosophical questions that we must all ask ourselves. What is the goal (or telos) of human existence? What is our purpose?
+ As a Christian, our answer must include a belief that there is a God, that He has revealed Himself to human beings in various ways, and that we–His creatures–have at least some capacity to understand the truth. To the degree that we can discern the truth, we must learn to embody and share it with others.
+ Furthermore, we maintain that God’s inscripturated will is located in the book known as the Bible. While there has been plenty of disagreement over (and sometime misuse of) the meaning of various biblical passages, the main thrust of Scripture is identifiable.
+ Another significant factor for consideration is human impropriety. In biblical lingo, we are sinners, which means that we are prone to selfishness and pride. Surely, this affects our ability to discern. At the very least, this should prompt a greater measure of humility in all of us.
+ All these things being said (and there are other things, as well), we must ask ourselves what needs to be conserved and what should be “up for grabs.” Of course there will be many things about which we won’t be certain, and so a certain degree of tentativeness will often mark our lives. Still, the whole conservative-liberal debate must take into account these basic questions: What should we be liberal about? What should be conserved?
+ The labels of conservative and liberal are still useful, of course, and it is often practical and helpful to retain them. But our ultimate criteria are more profound than political parties or even theological positions. Approaching politics, theology, and life from the vantage point suggested here might help us to continually focus on the underlying issues of our lives. Likewise, it would hopefully enable us to remain open to improvement and change.
+ So, for what it’s worth, these are some thoughts I’ve had about liberalism and conservatism. Some things should be vigorously conserved. Other things should be held loosely. Still other things are difficult to categorize.
+ We’re on a journey. Along the way we hold onto truth to the best of our (collective) ability, refusing to confuse non-essentials with essentials and determined (with equal passion and conviction) to both defend the truth and remain open to new discoveries. A sandal-wearing wise-man once said that “the truth shall set you free.” We’d all be better off if we would learn to heed His words and follow this One whom many believe to be the embodiment of truth. I can’t think of a better path to travel or a better person to accompany us as we sift through the complex liberal/conservative/moderate issues of life.
To be honest, I'm not sure if my above words make any sense. Oh well, perhaps I'll take a closer look at them later. Tired . . .
What few seem willing to do, however, is take a closer look at what produces our liberal or conservative stances in the first place. To put it plainly, why do some prefer conservativism and others liberalism? What factors lead us to our respective views?
Though I do not want to decry the use or usefulness of labels, I do think it is important to take a step back and ask some important questions. What is it, exactly, that we want to conserve, and why? Likewise, what positions should be held more loosely, and why?
My suggestions, therefore, would be the following:
+ Why should we believe anything at all? This is one of those deeply philosophical questions that we must all ask ourselves. What is the goal (or telos) of human existence? What is our purpose?
+ As a Christian, our answer must include a belief that there is a God, that He has revealed Himself to human beings in various ways, and that we–His creatures–have at least some capacity to understand the truth. To the degree that we can discern the truth, we must learn to embody and share it with others.
+ Furthermore, we maintain that God’s inscripturated will is located in the book known as the Bible. While there has been plenty of disagreement over (and sometime misuse of) the meaning of various biblical passages, the main thrust of Scripture is identifiable.
+ Another significant factor for consideration is human impropriety. In biblical lingo, we are sinners, which means that we are prone to selfishness and pride. Surely, this affects our ability to discern. At the very least, this should prompt a greater measure of humility in all of us.
+ All these things being said (and there are other things, as well), we must ask ourselves what needs to be conserved and what should be “up for grabs.” Of course there will be many things about which we won’t be certain, and so a certain degree of tentativeness will often mark our lives. Still, the whole conservative-liberal debate must take into account these basic questions: What should we be liberal about? What should be conserved?
+ The labels of conservative and liberal are still useful, of course, and it is often practical and helpful to retain them. But our ultimate criteria are more profound than political parties or even theological positions. Approaching politics, theology, and life from the vantage point suggested here might help us to continually focus on the underlying issues of our lives. Likewise, it would hopefully enable us to remain open to improvement and change.
+ So, for what it’s worth, these are some thoughts I’ve had about liberalism and conservatism. Some things should be vigorously conserved. Other things should be held loosely. Still other things are difficult to categorize.
+ We’re on a journey. Along the way we hold onto truth to the best of our (collective) ability, refusing to confuse non-essentials with essentials and determined (with equal passion and conviction) to both defend the truth and remain open to new discoveries. A sandal-wearing wise-man once said that “the truth shall set you free.” We’d all be better off if we would learn to heed His words and follow this One whom many believe to be the embodiment of truth. I can’t think of a better path to travel or a better person to accompany us as we sift through the complex liberal/conservative/moderate issues of life.
To be honest, I'm not sure if my above words make any sense. Oh well, perhaps I'll take a closer look at them later. Tired . . .
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