By far, the most frequent question I have received from people since we started using the Transformation Journal has been in reference to trying to understand the violence in the Old Testament. We spend the majority of our Transformation Journey session that was focused on the book of Joshua focused on that question.
Let me first say that I’m glad that so many find it disturbing. I actually think that’s an encouraging sign that we are uncomfortable with the association of violent acts and spiritual devotion. For thousands of years of Christian history, a greater level of discomfort with that could have saved millions of lives, and we certainly are aware today of how religious fundamentalism and it’s association with acts of “holy war” have caused tremendous damage which many of us would argue is wholly inconsistent with God’s desires for our world.
It is a difficult question.
For those who have asked me recently, I have pointed them back to that fifth session of Transformation Journey. The audio is available on our website. You can listen to it here.
Yesterday, though, I stumbled across a great article that I thought was an excellent resource to share with those seeking to address this issue. It is significantly shorter than my 60 minute lecture and I think a very clear response. I hope you’ll take the opportunity to read it.
Here’s the link to the article.
