Christian response

I've still been reading a lot of websites about reforming the Republican party and looking for something legitimate and genuine to participate in, but something is just not sitting right with me about the various groups. Everything I've found is antagonistic and contentious. The commenters in particular are insulting to anyone (Democrats or "out of favor" Republicans) they don't agree with and use all kinds of pejoratives and innuendos in reference to them. It's quite offensive to me, even though I agree with a lot of the political opinions presented.

Elder Robert D. Hales, one of the leaders of the LDS Church, just talked about Christian courage and responding to disagreements with the Spirit of the Lord in the October 2008 General Conference of the Church. This stands out in particular:

As we respond to others, each circumstance will be different. Fortunately, the Lord knows the hearts of our accusers and how we can most effectively respond to them. As true disciples seek guidance from the Spirit, they receive inspiration tailored to each encounter. And in every encounter, true disciples respond in ways that invite the Spirit of the Lord. Paul reminded the Corinthians that his preaching was “not with the enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power” (1Corinthians 2:4). Because that power resides in the Spirit of the Lord, we must never become contentious when we are discussing our faith. As almost every missionary learns, Bible bashing always drives the Spirit away. The Savior has said, “He that hath the spirit of contention is not of me” (3Nephi 11:29). More regrettable than the [LDS] Church being accused of not being Christian is when members react to such accusations in an un-Christlike way! May our conversations with others always be marked by the fruits of the Spirit—”love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, [and] temperance” (Galations 5:22-23). To be meek, as defined in Webster’s Dictionary, is “manifesting patience and longsuffering: enduring injury without resentment.” Meekness is not weakness. It is a badge of Christian courage.

He wasn't talking about politics in particular, although it can certainly be applied. It's sad that Republicans, so many of whom claim to be born-again Christians, behave in such an un-Christlike way toward people they disagree with politically such as on all the websites I'm finding. No wonder Christians have a bad reputation these days - the most public faces of Christian religions are overbearing and accusatory about moral behavior. They're also hypocritical in excusing bad behavior by someone in favor but condemn instantly when the evidence is against someone not politically affiliated with them.

More practically, how are Republicans going to get independents and moderates to see things their way if they insist on marginalizing any remote deviation from the party line with insults? That's not Christian behavior and it hurts rather than helps the promotion of good morals.

Of course I realize that this kind of behavior has dominated American elections since the Declaration of Independence was signed, but that doesn't make it right or permissible. Insults and contention should be frowned upon and rejected by Christian people as strongly as any of the moral issues such as abortion or gay marriage.

At this point, I have no intention of registering for any of these Republican reform groups or attempting to participate in any way with them. I'll stick with my own non-angry blog.