Bible and Mission

  Introduction The USA has developed and continues to develop an international reputation for offensive public speech from its politicians, whether running for office or in the halls of congress or even White House, and public figures.   Swearing, repulsive speech, and vulgarity are normal in movies.   The media, street rioters, and comedians eagerly participate in rancorous,   untruthful, explosive rhetoric to fan the emotions of an audience into flames.   Extreme claims about opponents (such as calling Republicans Nazis or fascists) normalise calumny in a caustic culture.   In the USA, such rhetoric has been cashed in for repeated violence in the streets and by actual assassins. The speech of the alleys and gutters of culture is becoming mainstream dialogue.   This, as we shall note, was spoken against by philosophers in antiquity. The gentleman must carry himself well.   The speech of all Christians, we shall also see, must also be holy and...

  Introduction The year 2024 saw a record number of elections throughout the world as over 60 countries voted in governments. [1]   Two related topics discussed during the year were populism in response to existing governments and the problem of social cohesion.  This essay explores these topics in regard to the place of Christians in society. Populism One of the interesting topics in focus was, and continues to be, the opposition of people and movements over against established governments and controlling elites.  Populism arises for various reasons.  One reason is a government that disregards the people it governs .  This also happens with regard to other institutions: the administration grows apart from and does not feel responsible to the people for whom it exists.  People become wary of institutions and might even doubt their legitimacy.  This can lead to a popular revolution.  Officials given power wish to preserve it and are tempted to...