The recent Prop 8 fight tells us that gay marriage is still an explosive issue. No question about it. But are we missing something significant about this battle? Are we overlooking its real significance for Christians and the culture wars?
I think so.
Recently, I published a piece with Relevant Magazine titled, "Why Our Generation Doesn't Care About Prop 8" that raised ire among friends. While the piece was cultural commentary and not personal commentary, many were offended that I would say the issue has shifted among young people who don't seem all that concerned with same sex unions. Unfortunately, recent polls support my claim and continue to demonstrate that public opposition (both among the general public and specifically among younger Christians) is quickly waning.
Because of the interest generated, I decided to drill down into the issue a little bit deeper. On CNN.com today, I published a piece titled, "Is the Prop 8 fight the culture wars' last stand?" As I continue to watch the American Christian movement change, I'm noticing a paradigm shift on political issues. The next generation seems far less concerned with traditional culture war issues and methodology, a truth that is underscored by young peoples' general disinterest in the Prop 8 debate. "If current trends among religious Americans and the younger generation continue," I wrote, "the current battle over Proposition 8 might just be the beginning of the end for the culture wars as we’ve known them."
Maybe you agree with my analysis. Perhaps not. Either way, I'd love to hear from you about what you're hearing, seeing, feeling from the next generation on this issue.
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Travis Mamone said:
I've noticed that there wasn't a lot of Chicken Little "OMG, THE SKYZ IS FALLING!!!" panic coming from the Church when Prop 8 was overturned. And I have noticed that Christians of our age are more outspoken about worldwide justice than gay marriage. However, I'm not sure if this means the culture war is coming to a complete end. Maybe it is, or maybe it's just in a lull. We shall see.
Posted: August 31, 2010
CJ said:
I posted the same response on CNN...
So, what say you, JM? Where do you fall in the Prop 8 issue? Would you vote for it? Is it worth it? Why do younger evangelicals seem to approach this and other traditionally culture-warrish issues as an either/or choice instead of a both/and? You have now written two articles about this specific topic, and yet in neither do you, as a young evangelical LEADER, challenge or exhort your FOLLOWERS to respond in light of the various stats that indicate your gen's apathy. Do you share the same sentiments of your generation? In all your stats and observations, you have avoided just where it is you stand–why is that?
And on what basis do you state the following, especially in light of the stats regarding younger evangelicals' outlook on gay marriage:
"This data say nothing about evangelical views on the morality of homosexuality itself—presumably a large portion of young Christians still hold to a traditional view of sexuality—but they speak volumes about how they’re translating those views in the public square."
I think the answer to the question lies more in your gens' lack of belief in absolute truth and the inerrancy of the Bible combined with a "common ground" milieu that ultimately trades one biblical truth for another (not to mention the indoctrination received at the hands of public/gov’t education—the homosexual agenda is succeeding!!). You and your gen have rightly pointed to seeming gaps in justice issues among evangelicals, albeit at a cost that unfortunately strikes at the heart of the most fundamental of civil institutions. You and your gen are simply trading one war for another and arbitrarily defining your war as the more just struggle, all the while wrapping it in biblical lingo just the same as the “aging generation of culture warriors” that you are now replacing.
Posted: August 31, 2010
Jonathan Merritt said:
CJ,
I have never said I support gay marriage, and I've never been misleading in my words (although I always try to choose them carefully). Actually, in the Relevant article, I said we should be reticent to throw off the ancient consensus on sexuality. And in a USA Today piece about a year ago ("An Evangelical's Plea: Love the Sinner"), I was even more forthright about many of my opinions.
The statement you quoted was one of opinion. Hence, the word "presumably." I presume that is the case from the research I've done and the conversations I've had. I don't have hard stats to back that up though, and your experiences might lead you to another presumption.
Best,
Jm
Posted: August 31, 2010
CJ said:
I never intimated that you support gay marriage, but thanks for reminder, anyway. My issue is simply that you, as a leader of the younger generation, take up some justice issues with great fervor while shrugging your shoulders at other justice issues--paying them lip service every now and then. Yet, you point your generational finger at your elders and wave it back and forth, condescendingly saying "Tsk Tsk" and "shame on you" for their emphasis on gay marriage and abortion at the expense of broader justice issues. What you and your gen are doing is really no different than what you accuse the older gen of doing; your focus is just different. It's actually even worse, for in failing to stand in the gap and take up the issues that the older gen is passing on, your generation doesn't seem all that concerned with the consequences of ceding ground (victory?) in the traditional culture war issues. Who in your generation is stopping to ask why the fence of marriage between a man and a women is there in the first place and what are the consequences of letting that fence be pulled down? You sure aren't, for that takes more than simply stating you don't support gay marriage (BTW, I applaud you in you Relevant article for at least pointing out the log in believers' own eye as it relates to divorce viz a viz gay marriage). And you are doing absolutely nothing to challenge them in thinking about how they can take up not only the broader justice issues, but pick up the torch that is being passed on and carry it forward. Herein lies the opportunity to carry it forward in a different manner, one that may not be so hawkish. Instead, you take ample opportunity to point out how you and your gen are different in what you deem important, and then basically walk away from those issues. Therefore, as I have said more than once, you are simply trading one war for another and, just like the older gen that you seem to love to poke, you quote your Bible verses and go forth in the name of the Lord (actually, your gen goes forth in the name of Common Ground).
As far as your analysis, I think I agree, for I believe the stats speak for themselves. The question is, what should be the response? You at least know my answer. Your readers are waiting for yours (well, some of us, at least).
CJ
Posted: September 1, 2010
Jonathan Merritt said:
CJ,
In these two articles, I was writing as a cultural observer. I know from your previous posts that you don't like that type of writing. You'd prefer a prophetic piece where I go on to solve the problem and call people to account. That wasn't the piece I was writing.
In my USA Today piece, I gave a pretty robust solution:
1. Begin dialoguing with our gay and lesbian neighbors in relationships.
2. Reform the rhetoric and abandon bumper sticker cliches.
3. Find ways to affirm our claims to love our gay and lesbian neighbors (e.g. - non-discrimination protection, hospital visitation rights).
4. Uphold love as truth-telling by refusing to compromise the biblical stance on sexuality and marriage.
That seems to offer a way forward, but you may not think so. I'm not totally sure how to best move forward in this discussion myself. I have a chapter on same sex issues in my next book though, and when I dig into the research and writing of that chapter, I hope to sort through a lot of this.
Jm
Posted: September 1, 2010
Alex Henderson said:
Hey JM,
After reading your last post I have another question for you: Do you support civil unions? You're starting to touch that with visitation rights. I'm really rooting for you here, but you can't sit on the fence on this issue. I think what would have helped you in both your article and here on this blog would have to have stated "even though my stance on this issue is 'X', from a cultural standpoint here's something to think about in some numbers that have been run on this topic". That way people would know where you stood instead of wondering and having to ask. You have a very large last name in that evangelical world you're talking about and people will want to know where you truly stand. That's why you're getting all the questions and will always get all the questions. You should know to be ready for that. As a son of an influential father myself, I'm held accountable for my words and actions too.
While I like that you have come back out to try to state your stance, you've opened up other questions that you'll have to answer as well. Unfortunately it's the problem with the wonderful gift of the internet...everything we say is out here to find for others to question us on (one article you were quoted in seemed to suggest you were/are part of the emerging church). It also tends to give a picture of where you stand on other issues whether they be political, social, or financial.
My fear for you is you are trying to make such a name for yourself..."my USA Today piece", "on CNN.com, I published a piece", "in my next book", etc...in such a short amount of time that if you don't watch it you'll ruin your name before you even get the chance to enjoy real/true success. Two types of flowers out there...annuals and perennials...one that is a flash in the pan and the other that lasts. In the short time I've been in the business world I've been both and it's more fun to be the perennial. It's also a lot more work.
You have a very established last name, and my concern...and I don't know you, so it may be that it's something you are not worried about...is that these news sites you are contributing to will use you because of that name. From what I've been able to find about you by just Googling your name you haven't been anywhere except school and your current place of work (your dad's church). People will question that in terms of "what has he really accomplished that gives him credit enough to make these statements"? Having degrees is essential, writing books takes more than some people realize, being on major websites is actually very cool, but in terms of life experiences you and I are both short on this topic...by the way, I'm only 31. People older than us...and from experience you have to watch what you do/say regarding them because they are the ones who will be able to buy your books, and give to your organizations on a steady basis, not the kids in or just out of college, you know where their money is going...have already been down these roads you and I are just starting on. They don't want to hear that we are the enlightened or anything along those lines. That's like telling your girl friend she's fat. Not a good idea. Just a note, if you haven't done that before, don't...promise.
I didn't mean to write this much, but my fingers took off on me. I hope you can see this as constructive criticism and caution for the direction you're choosing, and not as bashing or finger wagging. I want to see you to be that perennial, not the annual.
Posted: September 2, 2010
Jonathan Merritt said:
Alex,
Thanks for your words and encourage. You certainly put a lot down, but I am going to try to answer everything.
-First, I haven't fully researched everything involved with civil unions, but I plan to. I am working through this issue--yes, for a book--and will be sure to have an answer then. It's always best to do my homework before speaking out.
-As far as trying to peg me on "political, social, or financial" issues, it's best to not try to reason that out. I don't tend to fit nicely into any systems.
-On making a name for myself, it's good to know that I wrote for small Christian publications for some time and I was happy doing that. I fell into mainstream writing nearly by accident. When I point to a piece on USA Today or CNN, it's a destination more than a name. It's so the person can look it up. If the person asks a question that I'm already on record on, I found it's best to point the person to the place I said it first. When I mentioned my next book, it was merely to point out that those thoughts are in development and not fully formed. I don't want anyone to think that I simply don't want to answer the question, but rather that I am doing my due diligence to work it out.
-You mention again and again and again that I have a well known last name, but I think you overstate the case. Most editors and professionals I've met (particularly in the secular world) don't know of me, my work, or my name. Still, I understand your larger point.
-I don't pretend to have a depth of experience beyond my years. I've been lucky to work in various industries from consulting to call centers in three states over the last decade, and I've been blessed to travel to over 25 countries on missions and humanitarian projects. At the same time, I don't think a couple degrees and a few jobs make me an expert. That's why I almost ALWAYS try to pull from others' wisdom when I write. Thankfully, we serve a God who gives wisdom liberally and freely without considering youth or life experience (Job 12; 1 Tim. 4:12). Hopefully, in my efforts to think through these issues I make some headway from time to time.
I hope this answers all your questions and makes sense. I appreciate the sincerity in your comments.
Best.
Jm
Posted: September 2, 2010
CJ said:
1. I perceived that you were writing as an observer, even commenting to my wife that two articles in a row of this nature have to be intentional. And I can understand why you would think I don’t like that type of writing, but my office is full of files with numerous observational pieces, many of which are from peer reviewed journals that promote learning in numerous topics and disciplines.
2. The pushback that you experience from me is due in part to my perceived difference in the scope and purpose of your writing, which until recently has promoted your own views in light of relevant data, not to mention biblical truth. Then, along comes two pieces on an energized social issue (of which you have previously opined), and they are little more than you pointing your finger and saying, “Hey, everyone, look at this” and then just walking off (moreso the CNN article, but I still apply this to the Relevant Mag article). Therefore, what I saw were weak, observational puff pieces from someone who, for reasons unknown to me and 99.99% of your readers, decided to stand on the sidelines and leave his audience hanging with the “so what” question, which is not in keeping with the majority of your writings. I think your cultural commentary was pretty accurate. One thing I have always appreciated about your writings is that you at least provide data to bring context to an issue. It’s your personal commentary (or, the lack of it) with which I take issue, here. To be fair, I guess this just shows that you can't please all the people all the time, considering you are getting hit on both ends, here.
3. You sell yourself short in highlighting your previous writings in relation to this topic. To be fair, you also have written articles in the Chicago Sun Times, the Washington Post, AJC (I think) as well as a post or two on your blog.
4. Specific to your USA Today article, I agree it seems to be a way forward. It’s your 4th point that stirs me b/c I’m not really seeing much truth-telling by refusing to compromise (hence, my earlier point about standing in the gap). In fact, in the USAT article, you state “We don't have to compromise our convictions to do this. As Christians, we remain committed to the truth. Failing to speak the truth is both disingenuous and the antithesis of love.”
What I see in your last two pieces is the failure to speak truth to a generation that clearly has issues with absolute/biblical truth, after having blown the door wide open to do just this based on the data you present. This goes well beyond gay marriage. Yet, specific to gay marriage, you don’t even reference your previous writings; it took a forceful poke from me to even get you to go there. For me, your last two pieces set off a flurry of questions and confusion about your intentions and intended audience(s), the message(es) you intended to deliver, whether you are writing as one who is concerned about the Prop 8. ruling or you are just one of the apathetic members of the younger gen, and ultimately, just what it is that you want your readers to do with this information. Based on the comments on cnn.com, it’s hard for me to believe you accomplished your purpose (whatever it was), at least for this article and audience.
Even the title of your Relevant Mag article, “Why our generation doesn’t care,” begs the question, “Do you care.” This is extremely relevant (no pun intended) b/c of your position of leadership and influence and the platform you have been given to speak to this and other social issues. You can point me to your USAT article all you want (and any other article, for that matter), but when you make no effort to continue the message on “offering [a] way forward” or whatever message(s) you intend when addressing this issue, in effect, you are failing to CONSISTENTLY speak the truth and are being disingenuous to the sphere of influence that you have been given. Although you probably disagree with me and do not like it, b/c you have demonstrated that you have a message (presumably God-given) to send on this issue (and others) and a platform in which to deliver it (I believe definitely God-given), there absolutely is a prophetic obligation on your part—it’s called stewardship of your gifts and God’s blessings on your life and ministry. So, those weak, passive, observational puff pieces—they stand out like sore thumbs from just about everything else you have delivered in the 2-3 years that I have been following your writings.
I don’t presume to know God’s specific calling on your life or the seasons He has in store for maneuvering you along your journey, but I take you at your word that you are called to write (it seems teaching and preaching go along with this). In doing so, you have been given a platform for delivery. To that end, I will continue to challenge you to deliver prophetically (but won’t hold you to account for solving a particular problem or expect you to have the answers). And I commit to doing so in a manner that better promotes edification and Christian, brotherly love.
CJ
Posted: September 2, 2010
Jonathan Merritt said:
CJ,
I am sorry you feel like these were puff pieces. The two pieces were actually written simultaneously to get more bang for my research buck. There was no intentionality beyond that.
One side note: I have not written for the Chicago Sun-Times.
Best to you.
Jm
Posted: September 2, 2010
CJ said:
oops, I was looking at the CST banner on your blog post for 5/23/09...all this time I thought it was pulled from CST
As to the puff piece comment, I hope you are/were successful in getting more bang for your buck. I would certainly do the same from a research perspective. My puff piece jargon, however, is in a completely different context related to the lack of personal commentary. Interestingly, it was the research context that I provided as a way to communicate my appreciation for observational writing (perhaps this, in part, prompted your clarification).
CJ
Posted: September 2, 2010
Dave said:
JM, thanks for your continued good writing. I think it seems like the younger gen doesn't really care because most, or all, of the younger gen. personally knows one or more gay people. I am glad the younger generation, even in conservatives circles, are becoming more respectful toward people that are different, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Posted: September 7, 2010
Mike said:
People have been predicting the end of traditional conservative activism for some time, and I'm sure they will continue to do so 20 years from now.
I haven't seen the polls re: young Christians who increasingly support gay marriage or civil unions. Perhaps they maintain a biblical view of sexual morality and are simply making a reasonable (although flawed) argument that the state should revolutionize its understanding of marriage. Or perhaps the younger generation is simply being unduly influenced by a secular culture that continually pushes this issue in people's faces and stigmatizes those who support traditional notions of marriage. I lean to the latter, but haven't ruled out the former.
Btw, who are the "rising religious leaders" who tend not to view cultural issues as a zero-sum war between 'us and them.'”?
Posted: September 13, 2010
Dave Taylor said:
JM,
I'm not-so-young (I'm 53) and I think Dave above is on to something. There are many Christians who "know" gays/lesbians through the caricatures that are constantly served up to them or by observing the most outspoken and/or extreme examples of those communities, and they react and relate to those images, which are stereotypical, incomplete or not truly representative.
I once worked with the gay manager of a hardware store and his "agenda" was (1) make a decent living; (2) get through the work day in one piece and with minimal hassle; (3) make the mortgage payment on time (4) be spared the harassment of someone screaming in his face that he's "an abomination to God", etc.
In other words, he was a flesh-and-blood human being not so different from myself, and not a predatory monster. His sin is still sin but he can't be shoehorned into someone's conception of a gay man.
A similar stereotype that I've come across (and blogged about) is "charismatics" who bark like dogs and roar like lions. Since doing either of these things (along with snake handling) has never cracked the Top Ten Reasons for Picking a Church, we ought to be skeptical, but people swallow this all the time. That is, until they meet a charismatic who is more or less like them. That tempers their zeal and I think this is what Dave's alluding to.
Posted: September 19, 2010
Dave said:
Dave Tayor, you got me right. Being Gay that's exactly where I am. And I am on the leadership council of a progressive Baptist church where I am totally accepted by all my brothers and sisters, young and old. It's so easy for all of us to get caught up with stereotypical beliefs; it's sad but true. It creates walls where people don't tolerate each other. I follow Jonathan because he believes that we are to love thy neighbor as thyself---and when Jesus commanded that he didn't add a list of exceptions. One thing that struck me this past Sunday as I was asked to read I Cor. 13 for my Sunday School Class, I finally understood (I think) the message: it doesn't matter what we do, what we have, who we know, all the wonderful acts that we commit, if we do not love one another, we have gained nothing. If we all focused more on that one chapter, we'd have a much better world.
Posted: September 27, 2010