Comments on: Loving the Stranger

By: Artaban

Artaban — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:00:25 +0000

I think the first two posts highlight the reality that true theology must walk hand-in-hand with lived experience and service.

As a graduate student in theology, I switched from the MA to a degree that required more hours (MAPS, 48 hour program versus the 36 hour MA) because the MA was too book-heavy. The other degree offered a balance between the classroom and pastoral service. It made all the difference in the world…

By: Anna Williams

Anna Williams — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 21:24:48 +0000

Thanks, that’s a good point — I’ve updated the post to make room for theology’s role here. I didn’t mean to imply that faith did not underlie their actions, of course.

By: James K.A. Smith

James K.A. Smith — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 21:03:51 +0000

I’m not sure it’s fair to say that “according to academic studies, it’s not theology that explains their actions.” In her WQ article, Paxson clearly emphasizes that faith plays a role: “faith in something higher and unseen and absolutely just.” She also repeatedly emphasizes that the lone adornment in the minimalist Protestant sanctuary was the text, “Love one another.”

While she points to shared persecution, she clearly sees other factors beyond that later in the article.

FWIW.