True Christians don’t condemn DU30 on ‘stupid-God’ remark

BAÑOC

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
— Jesus Christ (Luke 23:34)

Let me clarify that if we engage in a religious debate, such topic will have no end. Have you noticed the religious debates at the Freedom Park or anywhere? So we better respect each other’s beliefs.

For purposes of discussion on President Rodrigo Duterte’s “stupid-God” remark, let me tackle both the legal and biblical points on the issue. First, on the legal aspect, freedom of religion is a fundamental right enshrined in Article III, Section 5 of the 1987 Constitution.

The freedom of religious profession and worship involves two principles: 1. Freedom to believe, which is absolute, and, 2. Freedom to act in accordance with such belief.

So, whoever your God — Yahweh, Jehovah, Yashua, Yahweh Elohim, Holy Trnity, Jesus Christ, Allah, Buddah, Ecleo, Rizal, Satan, etcetera — such concept or belief is within the bounds of the law in line with the first principle. It also covers the freedom not to believe.

When Duterte said his God is perfect, and he questioned the God of Catholics, following the teaching of creation in relation to the original sin, he has not violated any law. His faith must be respected. He cannot be forced to believe in Buddah, Allah, the God of Catholics, and etcetera.

What is important here is respect for everyone’s religion, including its god. In the Catholics’ perspective Duterte is wrong in calling their God “stupid’. If his attack refers to the hierarchy of the church, he should not hit their God.

So it is understandable that Christians, including Catholics will frown on the “stupid-God” remarks of the president. It hurts the religious feelings. But will it be enough bases to condemn and lambast the president?

Let me discuss the Biblical aspect by mentioning a few of Christian teachings, to wit:
“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If a man gives you a blow on one side of your face, then let the others side turn to him.”(Luke 6: 27-29).

“Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37.)

Finally, the incident of mocking and crucifying Jesus on the cross was no doubt more than just calling him “stupid.” Yet he prayed, “Forgive them for they do not know what they do.”

As sincere Christians who really know the teachings, do you condemn and castigate the president? Don’t you instead pray that he will be forgiven and enlightened?