How Not to be a Good Apologist

By now I think most everyone has heard Pat Robertson's comments advocating the assassination of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez (See the video here). In my opinion, and hopefully in the opinion of most others, this was a vile thing to do. First, I question what Biblical grounds Robertson has for such a statement, and the fact that it might be in the best interest of America does not qualify.

From an apologetics standpoint, the fact that a high profile Christian like Robertson has said these things gives us an extra bomb to defuse when sharing the gospel. Don't get me wrong, I'm not suggesting that we try to remove all offense when we share the gospel. However, the message is offensive enough in itself. It cuts right through the core of human pride, but outrageous remarks like this add man-made offense. Certainly the Holy Spirit can cut through the aforementioned offense to save a soul, but it is not our job to put as many obstacles in the road as we can.

My advice to Christian apologists is to denounce Robertson's folly early and often. Make it known that you don't think Christianity is a spring board for advancing "America's interests." I love America as much as the next conservative Christian, but when you are a representative of Christ there are larger issues at stake.