The legacy of Jerry Falwell
Jerry Falwell, dead at 73
The more I learn of the origins of Christianity, the more I am struck by the hypocrisy. Those of Falwell's ilk looked to the Apocalyptic side of Jesus, the side probably most accurate to Jesus the man. I'm pretty much a non-apocalypticist myself.
He was clear in his declarations that the apocalypse would result in a reversal of fortunes, those who were most powerful in this world, would be the most encumbered in the next. Why any devout Apocalyptic Christian would seek power, wealth, comfort and prestige is beyond me.
Unfortunately, he helped to put this country on a course that IMHO, has been very bad for us. He helped to provide a spark to ignite another polarization of this country, one that continues to this day. He helped to blame those of us on the fringe for all of this country's ills. He helped to set create an environment where hatemongers like Reverent Fred Phelps and his family could grow and thrive. I'm convinced that the ripples he set in motion will continue long after today's death.
That said, condolences to his family and other loved ones. Despite his hypocrisy, despite the damage done in his name (while claiming it was in His Name), many will grieve.
The more I learn of the origins of Christianity, the more I am struck by the hypocrisy. Those of Falwell's ilk looked to the Apocalyptic side of Jesus, the side probably most accurate to Jesus the man. I'm pretty much a non-apocalypticist myself.
He was clear in his declarations that the apocalypse would result in a reversal of fortunes, those who were most powerful in this world, would be the most encumbered in the next. Why any devout Apocalyptic Christian would seek power, wealth, comfort and prestige is beyond me.
Unfortunately, he helped to put this country on a course that IMHO, has been very bad for us. He helped to provide a spark to ignite another polarization of this country, one that continues to this day. He helped to blame those of us on the fringe for all of this country's ills. He helped to set create an environment where hatemongers like Reverent Fred Phelps and his family could grow and thrive. I'm convinced that the ripples he set in motion will continue long after today's death.
That said, condolences to his family and other loved ones. Despite his hypocrisy, despite the damage done in his name (while claiming it was in His Name), many will grieve.