What is your actual agenda

Last Sunday I preached a sermon entitled you shall know them by their love. Which came as no real surprise with all the hate being spread around. But the thought I wanted to discuss is why do we often believe that hate will actually convince others that our opinion is correct?

To be honest any time someone approaches me with hate I am very disinclined to hear much less agree with their opinion. I very much believe that there is often something I can learn even from the speech I truly disagree with. Looking for the nugget of truth or kernel of application in every conversation will help us grow as people and gain a better perspective of ourselves and those around us. But when that same conversation is based on our is started out in hate it creates a truly impressive barrier to any learning.

My only understanding of this type of interaction is that there is actually no desire to encourage learning or a transformation of knowledge just the desire to deride or degrade others that do not agree with the position of the one who is hating.

If we wish for someone to change their ways or beliefs I expect it would be much more effective if we choose a format where a proper conversation could take place. Marches have their place and a point but they very often fail to change the mind of the one who is set against them. Martin Luther King used marches to great effect but was also very careful to ensure that no hate was given off by those marching. Yes they were received by hate, but that is not the case we see today. Please understand I am using marching as an example not in an attempt to lessen a position.

Dialog is essential to communication if mind changing ideas. And hate is a massive barrier to hate. So if it your desire to transmit an idea to another person or a group of people ensuring a proper climate is essential. Even in the board room.

Blessings