Arrogant?!

Hmmmm…I have been called this term a couple of times now over the last few weeks from different people and in different internet settings. Going to Webster’s New College Dictionary (copyright 2005) I find that “arrogant” means: “full of or due to unwarranted pride and self-importance; overbearing; haughty” Quite the word, and quite the charge! As I mention in my profile, “I am simply a poor sinner saved by God’s wondrous grace.”

In both cases the parties who claim I am arrogant gave no specific evidence to back such a claim. Both individuals just tossed out this term instead of actually engaging the conversation of the various issues I was addressing. In the case of my blog article (Can independent, critical thinking exist within Reformed circles?), I have put together pieces of information and formed a conclusion. I am greatly puzzled as I have read and reread my article to find where I have “unwarranted pride” or “self-importance” been “overbearing” or “haughty.” Or is it just because I posted such an article? Maybe one of my lurkers out there who read my articles would like to weigh in and post.

This kind of approach (name calling instead of addressing the issues) is typically called an ad hominem. Appealing to Webster’s New College Dictionary again, its second definition of “ad hominem” states: “attacking the character, motives, etc. of an opponent rather than debating the issue on logical grounds.” In the realm of Christian conduct, to resort to these kinds of tactics are most unchristian. They have no place in debating issues amongst believers. If you cannot stick to the issues at hand and clearly articulate your position then you should keep silent instead of lowering yourself to the dregs of human behavior by bringing in an ad hominem attack.

I guess I am once again being “arrogant” by making such a statement as I have. I do not hold in high regard any man or woman who would stoop to such lows when debating issues.

Am I angered or upset over being called arrogant? No, it comes with the territory. I am reminded of a pastor I heard in my college days. He told us preacher boys to have a hide tough like a rhino but a heart tender for God. This pastor has since entered Heaven’s glory but his ministry continues. I have sought to have such skin and heart. But in desiring a heart tender for God it bothers me still when those attacks are by fellow believers instead of the lost from whom you expect such behavior.