Nice try, but if he profanes the name of Jesus on the cover, I'm not holding my nose to see why. But I'm sure many will be attracted by his irreverence.
I'm not sure how the title of the book qualifies as profaning the name of Jesus. Language is a tricky and culturally specific thing. My South African friends warned me many years ago about some of our North American English words that were offensive or profane in their culture. Just because we live in the same geographic region doesn't mean we share the same collection of profane words. I haven't read the book, but I suspect he is trying to help us understand that the expression in the title has more to do with cultural class distinctions than biblical precepts.
Andrew Jones (Tall Skinny Kiwi) posted an informative paper by Adam Mellem on his website a while back dealing with "A Theology of Profanity." It's worth the read.
Reminds of Tony Campolo's famous address where he talks about how many children had died from starvation since the beginning of his talk and how most people in the audience didn't even give a shit about it. Then he told the stunned people that the really sad thing was that most of them were more concerned that a Baptist preacher said shit than with the statistic itself.
Yes, and If I walked with you up to Jesus and said " Oh Shit, its Jesus, and said to you, he doesn't give a shit about the poor, and Jesus says Fuck off, would you be more concenrned about the poor, more concerned that I said Oh shit, or more concerned that Jesus said Fuck off.
Whatever... the title of the book is not appropriate, even in this day and age. Lets se a book review on tis site that is not there jut for the offensive title, aye.
In answer to Scott's post about the cultural specificity of language: I do agree that there are some things that we in the United States see as harmless that are offensive to other cultures (ie. the "ok" hand gesture is seen as the equivalent to a middle finger in Brazil). But to say that "just because we live in the same geographic region doesn't mean we share the same collection of profane words", is naive and biblically dangerous. The apostle Paul doesn't tell us to specifically discern what irreverent speech is for each culture then act accordingly (2Tim 2:16). Rather, he tells us to avoid all irreverent speech.
I think there is a better way to get one's point across without having to use profanity.
While Rick and I appear to disagree on what 2 Tim 2:16 is really about, I'd say that if I agreed with Rick and am now responsible for knowing what constitutes irreverent speech in every part of the world that speaks some form of English as well as any other language, thank God for grace. Read the rest of Paul. He's very interested in cultural specificity.
As for "naive and biblically dangerous," how about assuming that "godless chatter" or "irreverent babble" referred to in the verse you reference can be reduced to a list of culturally specific profane words that should be avoided.
I completely agree that "there is a better way to get one's point across without having to use profanity." I think the question remains, "What is profanity?" I'm pretty sure you'll find that the answer to that question will depend on who you ask.
There is also this little thing called respect, and associating what you know will be taken as a vulgarity by many with the sinless Son of Man does not show the kind of respect or honor that He deserves--especially from those who wish to be called his children.
What I see here is the power of an attention-grabbing title! It's got people commenting, right? Hopefully the audacity of a title like this is going to make someone who would be hostile to thinking about Jesus actually want to pick up the book and read about Him. Now, the book itself - if I could sum it up in one word, it would be REFRESHING. You feel like you're having a friendly conversation with the author, in a non-preachy but still challenging way. If this gets people to actually, honestly engage the most important topic there is - which a lot of people spend a lot of energy trying to avoid - then I say rock on!
Always remember: Cursing has all to do with intent to harm. I believe if there is not intent to harm, it's not cursing anything.
My blog: http://waxingpoetically.today.com/
I think it is kind of funny and reminds me of what people might say if they were caught off guard by Jesus doing something they should not be doing. Or maybe when He returns that is what people will say, Oh shit, Jesus is here, and right during American Idol. There is just way to much irony here. LOL
I totally agree with Jeremy 5/24 and Mike 5/24....I hope we can get to the essence of this conversation - that is I hope that Jesus continues to startle and disrupt my life and eventually- I won't need to exclaim "oh shit its Jesus. I look forward to reading the book.
I've read the most of the book...have you?! It took a while to read it because my 18 yr old daughter kept giving them away. She and her private christian school peers were excited to pick it apart and also enjoyed it's realism. An older daughter immediately started reading the book and thought that that it hit upon the reasons why she has refused to find a church as an adult. She may give "regligion" another try, (though her salvation was never lost). When a book was left in a hotel room, the front clerk asked if she could read it during the night shift while no one was looking. She was afraid to touch it for fear of lightning strikes. I look forward to using it as a tool to win over a friend who is "anti-religion", "anti-chrisitianity", and "anti-Jesus and the Bible". He immediately was interested this book at looking at the title. Steve Hughes primary audience is clear....not those who already believe and know Jesus. But I can see where he would like those most quick to judge to read it and see where they could practice a more loving Christianity with non-believers. Win them with love, not criticism.
The word "sh.." is such a mild expletive and certainly doesn't judge the heart just by its use, especially in this case when the use of the word is to draw people to a loving relationship with Jesus. I've witnessed it doing so.
A point a scriptural clarification:
While Paul might have warned against using offensive language, he was not above breaking his own advice to get the point across.
from Philemon 3:8 -...For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ...
Rubbish is a nice way of translating skubala, the Greek term for shi*. It's not the happy acceptable term, perikatharmata (that which is scraped off) used in 1 Corinthians 4:13, but was used at the time as a vugarity.
I believe Paul when he says, "I have become all things to all people, that I might by all means save some." Sometimes, to reach out to the world, you have to speak the same language that the world speaks. And if Paul can say Christ and shi* in the same statement to make a strong point, why can't this author?
If for not other reason, I think it's the title that would grab my attention. I'd read it BECAUSE of that!
I must admit that I have ordered a copy of the book, though the title is inappropriate...in my opinion. I'll post some personal thoughts on the book after I read it.
Greg+
Let's see...
Joey is more offended that...
A) The guy says 'shit' in the title of a book...IN AMERICA...IN 2008 B) The oooze didn't tell this reviewer to go back to his word processor and pound out a review that gives us a better idea of the content, context and merit of the book.
Answer: B
i'm one of the editors here - not the one who published this article, but nonetheless -- it ought to be noted that all of our articles and reviews are submitted by uncompensated volunteer writers, and we are happy to receive them. I have never sent one back for refinement, as we are not paying these authors, so i would find that a little condescending and demanding in this situation! ha ha ha
anybody who wants to write a more complete review of this book is welcome to do so.
onward with this fine discussion ... :D
oh shit! my apology to the volunteer author and the editors.
i've read three provocative faitg books just this week...and would love to contribute. you have my email, send me the rules.
Like someone said above, I love the irony of this conversation. The Bible makes Jesus out to be a normal guy, and everyone is pissed cuz the title says "shit." Has anyone ever thought that maybe the issue is that we find shit so offensive but not things like war, torture, poverty, child abuse, wife-beating, rape, or oppression as more offensive?
**Edited comment*** Like someone said above, I love the irony of this conversation. The book makes Jesus out to be a normal guy, and everyone is pissed cuz the title says "shit." Has anyone ever thought that maybe the issue is that we find shit so offensive but not things like war, torture, poverty, child abuse, wife-beating, rape, or oppression as more offensive?
Joey -
look around the site in the articles section and you'll see a link to submit an article. all the info is there.
PS the submit link is at the top of every published article.
In every age attempts have been made at being provocative in order to make a point. What we find offensive now is the equivalent of knee-high dresses in another age, so like it or not, putting Jesus and shit in the same title is provocative now but maybe not in the future.
The point then is the intent rather than the words themselves. I think personally that it's crass, borderline between smart and disrespectful and absolutely on the money. I'm not meant to like it, but I am definitely interested in reading what's inside in order to see if it's justified. Anyway, Jesus was never a guy to be put on a pedestal, he was a street-level guy who plunged into life with all the intent of God and the engagement of a real dirt-on-your-hands person. I fear the day when we run out of words that no longer have any power to communicate offense as well as connection.
"My South African friends warned me many years ago about some of our North American English words that were offensive or profane in their culture. Just because we live in the same geographic region doesn't mean we share the same collection of profane words. "
Save it. Steve's a native English speaker. He knows exactly what the word "Shit" means... He didn't choose it in a vacuum.
Ha! More power to ya. I like authors with guts to write what is true instead of what is popular. Wake up church. Reality is screaming...
I must admit I haven't read the book yet, but having served on Pastor Steve's ministry team in the past I find the title highly relevant- because it's generally the response a Christian would get in the community that he ministers to. I'm certain that you will find a very open and honest account of real encounters with people who have experienced real pain, for whom the journey to faith is not simple or straightforward.
Like other posters have pointed out, the title comes down to a matter of language. There's a great irony to it, I think. Christians get hung up on 'inappropriate' words and won't engage; Non-Christians get hung up on 'churchy' words and won't look further. Either way, both groups have to lose the chip on their shoulder if they're going to get anywhere. Jesus was pretty good at getting people to do that.
Can't wait to read the book.
Heh heh heh. The fact that so many folks are offended by a derogatory term for 'poop' kind of proves the point of the book's title...and I haven't even read it yet. XD
But something tells me I would very much like to. :)
In reference to using this word...well, I would like to ask how many folks have read any of Anne Lamott's works. Her books are awesome, but they aren't always squeaky-clean, but that's what I like about them. Life in general, even the Christian life, isn't squeaky clean. Not only that, but I've met quite a few Christians who, while their language may be clean as a whistle, are some of the most mean and vicious people out there.
Thus, if I had my choice between a good, kind Christian who uses 'bad' language now and again, and a 'squeaky clean' person who uses Christianity as an excuse to hate and judge others...give me the foul-mouthed guy! :D
~Lady Tam Li~
Wow I never considered Shit an offensive or course gesture but when you associate it with the name of the person in which the fullness of God dwells bodily, the God-man who was naked, tortured, killed and broke fellowship with the Father on the cross, bearing my sins, completely forgiving me, taking my punishment and then letting me have fellowship with and worship the must supremely glorious being forever as an adopted prodigal, replacing my heart of stone with a heart of flesh, and loving me with a love so infinite that I cannot fathom it..... then I realized that I probably shouldn't say shit anymore because maybe it is a course word. LOL. But then again, for Jesus to to associate with me, a wretch, apparently doesn't blaspheme his name. I'm confused.
Keith:
I can understand your confusion, and there was a time where it would have offended me too. But, God humbled me greatly, and taught me that He doesn't love us because of what we do or what we don't do; He just loves us.
Love without conditions is a really hard thing for humans to accept, I think; we would rather work for something than just accept it freely [and free of guilt or suspicion].
I look at it this way: Christ grew up as a common person, and His best friends were from the bottom rung of society. I'm sure He heard much worse things than the word 'Shit', but I don't remember Him ever talking about foul langauge. ;) Paul did...but not Jesus.
Also, if it makes you feel better, I'm pretty sure that Jesus Christ had to poop and pee just like any other human being. ;)
I would hope that the author who professes to have a relationship with Jesus would have consulted Him before choose the title for the book about Him. If he (the author) felt like Jesus was OK with it then who are we to judge and if Jesus wasn't Ok with it then He is more than big enough and strong enough to deal with him about it without our help. We have the choice to read the book or not but I think we need to leave the rest of it between him and his God.
Now I don't quite know that I would buy the book before previewing it as I am a little off-put about the profanity but again that is my choice just as it was the author's choice about which title to give it.
I was working on a book with the working title of "How to be a Christian without being an Asshole." Everyone I mentioned the title to seemed horrified and begged me not to use it. By comparison, my title was tame, and now I wish I'd finished the book.
Come on people!
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29
Talk about cultural specifics all you want but at the end of the day "sh**" is still unwholesome. It has no other purpose than to punctuate your thoughts in an offensive manner. Even the godless know this!
You don't scream out "Oh sh**!" in a courtroom without being warned by the judge to watch your mouth or face some kind of penalty.
How is it that we're so "clever" that we think it's ok and even desirable to choose a word that we know is offensive so long as it makes an unbeliever want to read it? While the book may in fact be "...helpful for building others up according to their needs" ( to refer back to the Bible), I think we all intuitively know the word itself is not wholesome.
"Oh Crap! It's Jesus." Oh, I'm pretty sure I'd poop my pants.
(5)
Nice try, but if he profanes the name of Jesus on the cover, I'm not holding my nose to see why. But I'm sure many will be attracted by his irreverence. Posted by bobbobnabob | Posted at 05/22/2008 5:58 AM
I'm not sure how the title of the book qualifies as profaning the name of Jesus. Language is a tricky and culturally specific thing. My South African friends warned me many years ago about some of our North American English words that were offensive or profane in their culture. Just because we live in the same geographic region doesn't mean we share the same collection of profane words. I haven't read the book, but I suspect he is trying to help us understand that the expression in the title has more to do with cultural class distinctions than biblical precepts.
Andrew Jones (Tall Skinny Kiwi) posted an informative paper by Adam Mellem on his website a while back dealing with "A Theology of Profanity." It's worth the read.
Posted by scott | Posted at 05/22/2008 8:36 AMReminds of Tony Campolo's famous address where he talks about how many children had died from starvation since the beginning of his talk and how most people in the audience didn't even give a shit about it. Then he told the stunned people that the really sad thing was that most of them were more concerned that a Baptist preacher said shit than with the statistic itself. Posted by Christian | Posted at 05/22/2008 7:30 PM
Yes, and If I walked with you up to Jesus and said " Oh Shit, its Jesus, and said to you, he doesn't give a shit about the poor, and Jesus says Fuck off, would you be more concenrned about the poor, more concerned that I said Oh shit, or more concerned that Jesus said Fuck off.
Whatever... the title of the book is not appropriate, even in this day and age. Lets se a book review on tis site that is not there jut for the offensive title, aye.
Posted by dave | Posted at 05/22/2008 8:56 PMIn answer to Scott's post about the cultural specificity of language: I do agree that there are some things that we in the United States see as harmless that are offensive to other cultures (ie. the "ok" hand gesture is seen as the equivalent to a middle finger in Brazil). But to say that "just because we live in the same geographic region doesn't mean we share the same collection of profane words", is naive and biblically dangerous. The apostle Paul doesn't tell us to specifically discern what irreverent speech is for each culture then act accordingly (2Tim 2:16). Rather, he tells us to avoid all irreverent speech.
I think there is a better way to get one's point across without having to use profanity.
Posted by Rick | Posted at 05/23/2008 6:01 AMWhile Rick and I appear to disagree on what 2 Tim 2:16 is really about, I'd say that if I agreed with Rick and am now responsible for knowing what constitutes irreverent speech in every part of the world that speaks some form of English as well as any other language, thank God for grace. Read the rest of Paul. He's very interested in cultural specificity.
As for "naive and biblically dangerous," how about assuming that "godless chatter" or "irreverent babble" referred to in the verse you reference can be reduced to a list of culturally specific profane words that should be avoided.
I completely agree that "there is a better way to get one's point across without having to use profanity." I think the question remains, "What is profanity?" I'm pretty sure you'll find that the answer to that question will depend on who you ask.
Posted by scott | Posted at 05/23/2008 9:42 AMThere is also this little thing called respect, and associating what you know will be taken as a vulgarity by many with the sinless Son of Man does not show the kind of respect or honor that He deserves--especially from those who wish to be called his children. Posted by bobbobnabob | Posted at 05/23/2008 9:33 PM
What I see here is the power of an attention-grabbing title! It's got people commenting, right? Hopefully the audacity of a title like this is going to make someone who would be hostile to thinking about Jesus actually want to pick up the book and read about Him. Now, the book itself - if I could sum it up in one word, it would be REFRESHING. You feel like you're having a friendly conversation with the author, in a non-preachy but still challenging way. If this gets people to actually, honestly engage the most important topic there is - which a lot of people spend a lot of energy trying to avoid - then I say rock on! Posted by M.T. | Posted at 05/24/2008 10:52 AM
Always remember: Cursing has all to do with intent to harm. I believe if there is not intent to harm, it's not cursing anything.
My blog: http://waxingpoetically.today.com/
Posted by Mike | Posted at 05/24/2008 11:22 AMI think it is kind of funny and reminds me of what people might say if they were caught off guard by Jesus doing something they should not be doing. Or maybe when He returns that is what people will say, Oh shit, Jesus is here, and right during American Idol. There is just way to much irony here. LOL Posted by Jeremy | Posted at 05/24/2008 5:58 PM
I totally agree with Jeremy 5/24 and Mike 5/24....I hope we can get to the essence of this conversation - that is I hope that Jesus continues to startle and disrupt my life and eventually- I won't need to exclaim "oh shit its Jesus. I look forward to reading the book. Posted by smetzner | Posted at 05/26/2008 10:45 AM
I've read the most of the book...have you?! It took a while to read it because my 18 yr old daughter kept giving them away. She and her private christian school peers were excited to pick it apart and also enjoyed it's realism. An older daughter immediately started reading the book and thought that that it hit upon the reasons why she has refused to find a church as an adult. She may give "regligion" another try, (though her salvation was never lost). When a book was left in a hotel room, the front clerk asked if she could read it during the night shift while no one was looking. She was afraid to touch it for fear of lightning strikes. I look forward to using it as a tool to win over a friend who is "anti-religion", "anti-chrisitianity", and "anti-Jesus and the Bible". He immediately was interested this book at looking at the title. Steve Hughes primary audience is clear....not those who already believe and know Jesus. But I can see where he would like those most quick to judge to read it and see where they could practice a more loving Christianity with non-believers. Win them with love, not criticism.
The word "sh.." is such a mild expletive and certainly doesn't judge the heart just by its use, especially in this case when the use of the word is to draw people to a loving relationship with Jesus. I've witnessed it doing so.
Posted by S Taylor | Posted at 05/26/2008 9:13 PMA point a scriptural clarification:
While Paul might have warned against using offensive language, he was not above breaking his own advice to get the point across.
from Philemon 3:8 -...For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ...
Rubbish is a nice way of translating skubala, the Greek term for shi*. It's not the happy acceptable term, perikatharmata (that which is scraped off) used in 1 Corinthians 4:13, but was used at the time as a vugarity.
I believe Paul when he says, "I have become all things to all people, that I might by all means save some." Sometimes, to reach out to the world, you have to speak the same language that the world speaks. And if Paul can say Christ and shi* in the same statement to make a strong point, why can't this author?
Posted by Eric | Posted at 05/29/2008 11:53 AMIf for not other reason, I think it's the title that would grab my attention. I'd read it BECAUSE of that! Posted by Seph | Posted at 06/02/2008 2:55 AM
I must admit that I have ordered a copy of the book, though the title is inappropriate...in my opinion. I'll post some personal thoughts on the book after I read it.
Greg+
Posted by Fr. Greg | Posted at 06/03/2008 9:25 AMLet's see...
Joey is more offended that...
A) The guy says 'shit' in the title of a book...IN AMERICA...IN 2008 B) The oooze didn't tell this reviewer to go back to his word processor and pound out a review that gives us a better idea of the content, context and merit of the book.
Answer: B
Posted by joey | Posted at 06/03/2008 11:51 PMi'm one of the editors here - not the one who published this article, but nonetheless -- it ought to be noted that all of our articles and reviews are submitted by uncompensated volunteer writers, and we are happy to receive them. I have never sent one back for refinement, as we are not paying these authors, so i would find that a little condescending and demanding in this situation! ha ha ha
anybody who wants to write a more complete review of this book is welcome to do so.
onward with this fine discussion ... :D
Posted by tammy | Posted at 06/05/2008 4:45 AMoh shit! my apology to the volunteer author and the editors.
i've read three provocative faitg books just this week...and would love to contribute. you have my email, send me the rules.
Posted by joey | Posted at 06/07/2008 2:24 PMLike someone said above, I love the irony of this conversation. The Bible makes Jesus out to be a normal guy, and everyone is pissed cuz the title says "shit." Has anyone ever thought that maybe the issue is that we find shit so offensive but not things like war, torture, poverty, child abuse, wife-beating, rape, or oppression as more offensive? Posted by Jeremy Z. | Posted at 06/07/2008 7:49 PM
**Edited comment*** Like someone said above, I love the irony of this conversation. The book makes Jesus out to be a normal guy, and everyone is pissed cuz the title says "shit." Has anyone ever thought that maybe the issue is that we find shit so offensive but not things like war, torture, poverty, child abuse, wife-beating, rape, or oppression as more offensive? Posted by Jeremy Z. | Posted at 06/07/2008 7:50 PM
Joey -
look around the site in the articles section and you'll see a link to submit an article. all the info is there.
Posted by tammy | Posted at 06/07/2008 9:27 PMPS the submit link is at the top of every published article. Posted by tammy | Posted at 06/07/2008 9:28 PM
In every age attempts have been made at being provocative in order to make a point. What we find offensive now is the equivalent of knee-high dresses in another age, so like it or not, putting Jesus and shit in the same title is provocative now but maybe not in the future.
The point then is the intent rather than the words themselves. I think personally that it's crass, borderline between smart and disrespectful and absolutely on the money. I'm not meant to like it, but I am definitely interested in reading what's inside in order to see if it's justified. Anyway, Jesus was never a guy to be put on a pedestal, he was a street-level guy who plunged into life with all the intent of God and the engagement of a real dirt-on-your-hands person. I fear the day when we run out of words that no longer have any power to communicate offense as well as connection.
Posted by rapturefish | Posted at 06/11/2008 10:07 AM"My South African friends warned me many years ago about some of our North American English words that were offensive or profane in their culture. Just because we live in the same geographic region doesn't mean we share the same collection of profane words. "
Save it. Steve's a native English speaker. He knows exactly what the word "Shit" means... He didn't choose it in a vacuum.
Posted by Kirby L. Wallace | Posted at 06/16/2008 10:10 PMHa! More power to ya. I like authors with guts to write what is true instead of what is popular. Wake up church. Reality is screaming... Posted by Laura | Posted at 06/17/2008 2:16 PM
I must admit I haven't read the book yet, but having served on Pastor Steve's ministry team in the past I find the title highly relevant- because it's generally the response a Christian would get in the community that he ministers to. I'm certain that you will find a very open and honest account of real encounters with people who have experienced real pain, for whom the journey to faith is not simple or straightforward.
Like other posters have pointed out, the title comes down to a matter of language. There's a great irony to it, I think. Christians get hung up on 'inappropriate' words and won't engage; Non-Christians get hung up on 'churchy' words and won't look further. Either way, both groups have to lose the chip on their shoulder if they're going to get anywhere. Jesus was pretty good at getting people to do that.
Can't wait to read the book.
Posted by Rachel | Posted at 06/19/2008 12:16 PMHeh heh heh. The fact that so many folks are offended by a derogatory term for 'poop' kind of proves the point of the book's title...and I haven't even read it yet. XD
But something tells me I would very much like to. :)
In reference to using this word...well, I would like to ask how many folks have read any of Anne Lamott's works. Her books are awesome, but they aren't always squeaky-clean, but that's what I like about them. Life in general, even the Christian life, isn't squeaky clean. Not only that, but I've met quite a few Christians who, while their language may be clean as a whistle, are some of the most mean and vicious people out there.
Thus, if I had my choice between a good, kind Christian who uses 'bad' language now and again, and a 'squeaky clean' person who uses Christianity as an excuse to hate and judge others...give me the foul-mouthed guy! :D
~Lady Tam Li~
Posted by Lady Tam Li | Posted at 06/30/2008 7:41 AMWow I never considered Shit an offensive or course gesture but when you associate it with the name of the person in which the fullness of God dwells bodily, the God-man who was naked, tortured, killed and broke fellowship with the Father on the cross, bearing my sins, completely forgiving me, taking my punishment and then letting me have fellowship with and worship the must supremely glorious being forever as an adopted prodigal, replacing my heart of stone with a heart of flesh, and loving me with a love so infinite that I cannot fathom it..... then I realized that I probably shouldn't say shit anymore because maybe it is a course word. LOL. But then again, for Jesus to to associate with me, a wretch, apparently doesn't blaspheme his name. I'm confused. Posted by Keith Willson | Posted at 06/30/2008 9:27 PM
Keith:
I can understand your confusion, and there was a time where it would have offended me too. But, God humbled me greatly, and taught me that He doesn't love us because of what we do or what we don't do; He just loves us.
Love without conditions is a really hard thing for humans to accept, I think; we would rather work for something than just accept it freely [and free of guilt or suspicion].
I look at it this way: Christ grew up as a common person, and His best friends were from the bottom rung of society. I'm sure He heard much worse things than the word 'Shit', but I don't remember Him ever talking about foul langauge. ;) Paul did...but not Jesus.
Also, if it makes you feel better, I'm pretty sure that Jesus Christ had to poop and pee just like any other human being. ;)
Posted by Lady Tam Li | Posted at 07/01/2008 6:58 AMI would hope that the author who professes to have a relationship with Jesus would have consulted Him before choose the title for the book about Him. If he (the author) felt like Jesus was OK with it then who are we to judge and if Jesus wasn't Ok with it then He is more than big enough and strong enough to deal with him about it without our help. We have the choice to read the book or not but I think we need to leave the rest of it between him and his God.
Now I don't quite know that I would buy the book before previewing it as I am a little off-put about the profanity but again that is my choice just as it was the author's choice about which title to give it.
Posted by Tarag121 | Posted at 07/06/2008 9:16 AMI was working on a book with the working title of "How to be a Christian without being an Asshole." Everyone I mentioned the title to seemed horrified and begged me not to use it. By comparison, my title was tame, and now I wish I'd finished the book. Posted by Kelly Vickers | Posted at 07/08/2008 2:52 PM
Come on people!
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29
Talk about cultural specifics all you want but at the end of the day "sh**" is still unwholesome. It has no other purpose than to punctuate your thoughts in an offensive manner. Even the godless know this!
You don't scream out "Oh sh**!" in a courtroom without being warned by the judge to watch your mouth or face some kind of penalty.
How is it that we're so "clever" that we think it's ok and even desirable to choose a word that we know is offensive so long as it makes an unbeliever want to read it? While the book may in fact be "...helpful for building others up according to their needs" ( to refer back to the Bible), I think we all intuitively know the word itself is not wholesome.
Posted by Scaramouche | Posted at 07/09/2008 1:42 AM"Oh Crap! It's Jesus." Oh, I'm pretty sure I'd poop my pants. Posted by newjerseyjesus | Posted at 10/08/2008 11:49 AM