Writers can rarely resist weighing in on contemporary issues, and it’s often a good thing that they offer insight and perspective in their commentaries on what’s important in our world. Christians today need solid thinking and constructive debate when it comes to complex matters such as war, immigration, social justice, the environment, and theology.

The Wrong Kind of Commentary

I don’t know about you, but I’ve shared a few rants of my own that did little to help anyone. I hammered out a self-righteous post that blasted a particular perspective or person, and then patted myself on the back for being all progressive and smart.

In addition, by focusing on writing sharp replies, I often failed to think of ways to, you know, actually do something.

A wise administrator at my seminary once said, “When seminary students read a book, they think they’ve done it.” I think we could say the same for blogging on particular issues: we run the risk of confusing commentary with action, especially if our commentaries are strident and provocative.

I have been repenting of my self-righteous and combative posts that have done little to advance conversation, thought, or action. Those are the wrong kinds of commentaries for writers who hope to minister to others. I hope I don’t make those mistakes again.

Constructive Commentary

Christians need to address the issues of today both for the sake of fellow believers and for the sake of those who are not Christians.

Christianity thrives on application and action, but we need writers to help us on our way with this. Writers can meditate on scripture, examine the issues of our times, and help fellow Christians apply their beliefs in today’s context. I see this kind of writing ministry as pastoral in many ways.

However, Christian writers should also remember that their work is out there for all to see, and that some readers outside of the Christian community may be reading their words. This is very  important to me. I hope that my writing is representative of the ministry of Jesus and gives them a better picture of what it means to be a disciple today.

There are plenty of destructive things being said by Christians or controversies over issues that are peripheral to the Gospel that turn folks off to the Gospel. We need to think about the ramifications of our writing for the spread of the Gospel.

Are readers meeting Jesus and learning about the Gospel of the Kingdom in our writing? I pray that they will.