Thread by @JoshDaws

I’m seeing a lot of praise for this from people who rarely if ever wade into this debate. That’s instructive on two fronts.

1. The respect extended Du Mez before the critique has rallied some conflict-averse to agree her work is bad.

2. It will still be considered an attack. 1/

https://twitter.com/AdFontesJournal/status/1491397373549223939

What we can learn from this is that tone does matter but not in the way certain leaders think it does. Tone doesn’t persuade the progressives. You can be as gentle and lowly as Jesus and they’ll still interpret any disagreement as a bigoted attack on them. 2/

This is why it’s tempting to eviscerate these toxic ideas and the people peddling them. They’re going to respond as if you are no matter what so why hold back? 3/

However, this particular article demonstrates the wisdom in being as irenic as possible in our disagreements and critiques. Our tone can be strategically useful to persuade other Christians who think tone is important. 4/

The goal of debate is never to persuade the one you’re debating. It’s to persuade those watching the debate. While it’s fun for those who already agree with you to see you rip the opponent’s ideas to shreds, it does little to win those who place a high value on civility. 5/

Do I wish we had more evangelical leaders with a tougher constitution for strong disagreement and harsh rebukes? Sure. There is a squishiness problem in the church that concerns me. 6/

However, if we’re ever going to vanquish Critical Theory and it’s deconstructionist project we’re going to need to convince the moderates that it’s a problem. That’s why articles like the one above are important. 7/

The single biggest recruiting moment for our side was when people saw @RevKevDeYoung’s gracious and gentle critique of the Reparations book decried as an example of white supremacy. 8/

Our tone won’t persuade Du Mez et al., but their response to our gentle but firm disagreements will persuade those who haven’t yet joined the fight. 9/

Remember that gentleness is strength under control. Don’t give full vent to your contempt or alarm. Gentleness is not weakness. It’s a weapon in your arsenal. Use it to persuade those watching from the sidelines. 10/10

cc: @JDWilsey