SPOTLIGHT: Higgins Responds to Reader’s Concerns

Written by David E. Smith

I recently asked Laurie Higgins, the cultural affairs writer for the Illinois Family Institute, to join me in a podcast. In this episode of Illinois Family Spotlight, we discuss Laurie’s satirical, sarcastic and sassy style of writing, which makes some people uncomfortable. Unfortunately, there are even some who go so far as to say that it is unbiblical or not Christ-like. I understand where this is coming from, but I think it is often misapplied or too often used as an excuse to remain silent. I also believe it’s rooted in a fear of man, rather than a fear of God.

Therefore, we thought it was important enough to respond to these criticisms and defend this style of writing which is directed at some of the most wicked ideologies and the advocates of dangerous and sinful agendas in our culture. It is also important to note that the Bible never speaks kindly of false teachers or those who promote evil.  Nor should we.

God’s Word describes sin in strong, harsh terms: as putrefying sores (Isaiah 1:6), a heavy burden (Psalm 38:4), defiling filth (Titus 1:15; 2 Corinthians 7:1), a binding debt (Matthew 6:12-15), darkness (1 John 1:6), foolish (Matt. 7:26), impenitent (Romans 2:5), enslaving (Romans 6:16-17) and a scarlet stain (Isaiah 1:18), to name a few.

Moreover, Bible heroes were often harsh, unkind and confrontational… and God praises these heroes for taking a righteous stand.

We also discuss why it is necessary at times to expose the graphic details of ideas and behavior that are intentionally being promoted as “good” to our families — often times targeted at young people. In our work to expose and oppose evil, the use of strong language is necessary and the inclusion of graphic content indispensable in getting people to understand the extent of the depravity of our culture. How do we expose the fruitless deeds of darkness if we turn a blind eye or don’t call them by name?

In the second half of this podcast, we discuss the surging transgender movement. From issues in the schools, to the Target Boycott, to Trump’s transgenders in the military ban.

Like the early Church, we should be praying for boldness for each other (Acts 4:23-31) – and especially those Christian leaders who are out in the public square confronting the idols and false teaches of the day.  (See also Eph. 6:18-20)

This culture and world would look so very different if we were more like Jesus:

“Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone’s opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but truly teach the way of God…” ~Mark 12:14 (emphasis added)

Oh, if we would hate sin as God the Father does, and fear Him as we should. (James 4:4)

Mentioned in the podcast:  Anger and the Church by Laurie Higgins

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