What Should We Call Them Other Than Christians?

Because that’s decidedly NOT what they are

SubSermonette

And so this is Christmas. As so little of this commercial season is about Christ, thought I’d tap out a reminder. Never mind that many Biblical scholars concur that Jesus was more likely born in the early summer months like June or July. Happy Winter Solstice, y’all!

Our nation is currently plagued by fascists carrying a cross rather than a swastika. Evangelicals spread wide a vile false gospel of hatred. Prosperity preachers overlook the “camel/eye of needle” algorithm. Millions upon millions who call themselves Christians fail to think, speak and act in a Christian way. And worship a gold-plated pig who is the closest thing to the antichrist since Adolf Hitler

I know I should defer from making judgements, lest I be judged myself. But I have faith that what I do here is merely well-informed assessment. I was raised in the Episcopal Church from the time I had a cross thumbed on my brow with holy water. Choirboy from age 6, acolyte a few years later. My stepfather and uncle/godfather were both Episcopal priests. Studied religion formally in college and less formally ever since.

I was about to reach for my Bible to access some of the (reported) teachings of Jesus to make my case, but then came across this:

Then there’s this for a quick reference guide to being a true Christian from one of my favorite rocking singer-songwriters, Peter Case. Last time I saw Case, it was at Austin’s 04 Center venue, aka the Austin New Church, a progressive Christian parish. He asked for requests; I called out this one. Peter offered to sing it in a parking lot performance after the show. My goal was to hear “The Words in Red” (what Jesus said) in a church. But no matter. Peter can do as he likes, and I’ll always did hearing it.

I’m astounded by the hatred, venom, judgementalism and hypocrisy spouted by the masses who call themselves Christians but seem to be clueless as to what that means and entails. I call them fake Christians, faux Christians… but the “Christian” tag remains. Any better suggestions welcome in the comments below.

And just keep in mind here on Christmas: Don’t throw out the Baby Jesus with the dirty bathwater.