It's a Compliment... ?

I didn't quite know how to take this compliment when it was given.

The other day I was in a meeting with Pastors where I shared what my research into spiritual abuse, and spiritual formation has been leading to. Here’s a brief synopsis.

Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash

We (the Church, but mostly the Evangelical Church) have focused so much on hellfire and damnation, that we’ve neglected the goodness of God’s creation, and we are part of that creation. There must be a way to elevate the good within us so that we can live in the grace that God offers.

I then clarified - because one of the Pastors is from a conservative Evangelical church - that’s not saying that sin doesn’t exist but there must be some way to balance good, and acknowledge sin without condemning people, and making them feel deep seated shame.

One of the other Pastors said “How very Pauline of you, Andrea” while he smiled at me and nodded encouragingly.

I’ll be completely honest, I didn’t know how to take that. I went through a three step process,

1. At first, I was indignant. —> Seriously!?! Paul!??!!!! Ugh!!!!

2. Then I was shocked silent. —> I don’t know how to take this.

3. Finally, I accepted the compliment. —> The woman next to me said, “It’s okay it’s a compliment.”

It was a mixed bag of feelings. My mouth might have even hung open. Here’s why I had that reaction.

Wondering where the “mixed bag of feelings” led me? Consider becoming a paid subscriber. It’s like buying me a cup of coffee once a month.