Southtown letters: Questionable theology from the pulpit

I haven’t been to a Sunday church service in many years. However, I was recently invited to attend one, so out of respect and curiosity, I consented. I don’t know if many evangelical pastors conduct their sermons in similar fashion, but here’s what I heard.

• He didn’t mention a single word about Jesus’ overall message of love, kindness,mercy and forgiveness. Not one!
• He overtly promoted conservatism and railed against liberalism.
• He unabashedly encouraged his congregants to argue and debate non-Christians at every opportunity.
• He specifically named four other Christian sects and accused them of having false doctrines.
• His tone was condescending and negative throughout, as he assured his captivated flock that he was right, spoke the truth and could prove it biblically.
• He concluded by briefly reminding everyone that salvation is only through Jesus, and 2/3 of humanity is likely destined for hell.

When the whole fiasco mercifully ended, I was asking myself, “What kind of person would voluntarily endure this haranguing every week and then throw money in an offering plate to promote his diatribes?”

I will admit, I did draw one positive conclusion from the experience. It’ll be many more years before I ever set foot in another horror chamber like that!

Wes Dickson, Orland Park