The past few years have seen a wave of people being “cancelled,” a phenomenon whereby a person comes under criticism and is thrust out of public or professional life. The cancellations have not been confined to living people. Historical figures including Thomas Jefferson and even Abraham Lincoln have come under fire. So have theological giants of the past. It has raised important questions. Should we still extol Christian leaders who held slaves? Or who believed women were not equal to men?
How about Christian heroes who believed in burning heretics? That’s the thorny question N.T. Wright tackled this week. And he did so regarding two of Protestants’ greatest heroes: Luther and Calvin. Wright doesn’t shrink from decrying the horrific nature of such beliefs. But he encourages contemporary Christians to model a little humility and take a harder look at our own lives.
“We must look at the larger picture, as well, and see that in every generation, there are people (including myself) who invoke God in Christ but whose lives, habits, and larger policies are not blameless.”
Read: “Should We Cancel Luther and Calvin?”
Speaking of taking a closer look at ourselves, let me recommend our assessment, Character & Integrity Assessment Pack. Integrity is too important to leave unchecked in our lives. These handouts will help you and the other leaders in your organization take a close look in the mirror.
