Food For Thought

John Martin, Camden SC

The purpose of this blog is to share my research and thoughts about the discernment process.  The discernment process I am referring to, of course, is the question of whether to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church.  I think there are some first order questions that should be asked and answered (both individually and as a congregation) before starting this quest:

 

1. Am I willing to put some work into understanding the questions and searching for answers?

2. What do I really know about the basic beliefs of the United Methodist Church?

3. What do I really understand about the governmental structure of the United Methodist Church?

4. Where do I go to get good information to answer my questions?

5. What is my own attitude towards this process?

6. What should my attitude be towards this process?

 

We might try to understand what the word "Discern" means:

discern (v.) - "perceive or recognize the difference or distinction between (two or more things);" also "distinguish (an object) with the eyes, see distinctly, behold;" also "perceive rationally, understand;" late 14c., from Old French discerner (13c.) "distinguish (between), separate" (by sifting), and directly from Latin discernere "to separate, set apart, divide, distribute; distinguish, perceive," from dis- "off, away" (see dis-) + cernere "distinguish, separate, sift" (from PIE root *krei- "to sieve," thus "discriminate, distinguish").

 

I really like the words used in this definition such as "rational", "recognize the difference", "sifting", "distinguish", "discriminate", and "perceive".  

 

I found a PodCast by Phyllis Masonheimer on her Verity website that I believe sets a positive tone as we start our discernment journey:  

 

049 | How to Discern Core Doctrine  Jun 9, 2021

In this episode we walk through how to identify core doctrine v. secondary/freedom issues using Alberty Mohler's theological triage method. We also discuss how to identify theological bias by looking at endorsers, terms and other hacks. So much packed into this episode!

https://veritybyphylicia.libsyn.com/how-to-discern-core-doctrine

 

If you found value in what she had to say, you might listen to the following PodCast as she addresses attitude. 

 

039 | Discernment v. Critical Spirit: What's the Difference?
Verity by Phylicia Masonheimer

Looking at 1 John 4 and testing the spirits, we discuss a reader question about discernment, discernment "ministries", and how to discern biblically without giving into a fault-finding, judgmental spirit. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/verity-by-phylicia-masonheimer/id1495210734?i=1000510449413

 

I plan to continue to post additional information that meets the criteria laid out above, as I find it and as people suggest other sources.

6/8/24 The church is not at this point because of homophobia, or irrational prejudices about homosexuality.  Nor is this simply a question of homosexual clergy and marriage.  The church is at this point because the radical progressive leadership wants the church to approve of, endorse, and act as a propaganda machine for a way of life and a political agenda that they endorse.  Much of the radical progressive agenda is rooted in Marxism.  The group stated that we might get bogged down trying to put that idea forward to the congregation, AND I AGREE.  Nevertheless, the anti-family/gender confusion agenda is real and is driving much of the social agenda that is embraced by the denomination leaders.  

Following are from ChatGPT searches:

What Are Common Links of Marxism and Transgenderism (no reference from NIWCA)

ChatGPT -  Searched 5 sites

 The links between Marxism and transgenderism are multifaceted, often revolving around shared critiques of capitalism, traditional gender roles, and the structures of oppression. Here are five key connections:

Critique of Capitalism and Gender Roles: Both Marxism and transgender theory critique how capitalism enforces rigid gender roles. Transgender Marxism explores how capitalist society imposes binary gender norms, which constrain individuals' gender identities and expressions. This critique is rooted in the broader Marxist analysis of how economic systems shape social relations and identities (Transgender Marxism, Pluto Press).

Historical Materialism and Gender: Marxist theory's focus on historical materialism examines how gender roles have evolved alongside economic systems. Engels, in "The Origin of the Family, Private Property, and the State," argued that patriarchal structures emerged with the development of private property, suggesting that the abolition of capitalist systems could lead to the liberation of all gender identities (Marxism Explained).

Opposition to Patriarchy: Both movements oppose patriarchal structures, viewing them as instruments of oppression. Marxists see the traditional family as a microcosm of capitalist society, perpetuating gender hierarchies and inequality. Transgender theorists argue for dismantling these patriarchal norms to allow for a more inclusive understanding of gender (NAS).

Intersectionality of Oppressions: Transgender Marxism emphasizes the intersectionality of different forms of oppression, including class, gender, and sexuality. This approach aligns with broader Marxist principles that analyze how various social hierarchies and capitalist exploitation intersect and reinforce each other (Trans Reads).

Revolutionary Potential: Both Marxism and transgender movements envision revolutionary changes to society. Marxism aims for a classless, stateless society, which it argues would eliminate the conditions for gender oppression. Transgender theorists similarly argue for a fundamental reorganization of society that would dismantle the binary gender system and create a more inclusive and equitable world (Transgender Marxism, Pluto Press).

These connections show a convergence in how both Marxism and transgender theory seek to understand and challenge the structures of oppression embedded within capitalist societies. By addressing these intersections, both movements aim to create a more liberated and inclusive world.

What are the common links between Black Lives Matter and Marxism?

ChatGPT - Searched 5 sites

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement has notable connections to Marxist ideology, particularly through the principles and statements of its founders and some of its organizational goals.

1.      Founders' Ideology: The co-founders of BLM, including Patrisse Cullors, have publicly identified as trained Marxists. They have expressed views on restructuring society in ways that align with Marxist principles, such as dismantling the current capitalist structures and addressing systemic inequalities​ (Socialist Alternative)​​ (The Heritage Foundation)​.

2.      Critical Race Theory (CRT): BLM's advocacy often intersects with CRT, which has roots in Marxist thought. CRT critiques the structures of society from the perspective that systemic racism is deeply embedded in American institutions. This theory suggests that true justice requires a fundamental restructuring of societal systems, an idea that parallels Marxist calls for revolution against capitalist systems​ (The Heritage Foundation)​.

3.      Economic Justice and Redistribution: BLM's platform includes calls for economic justice, which involve significant redistributive policies. These align with Marxist principles of addressing economic disparities through systemic change rather than incremental reform​ (UMass Political Science)​.

4.      Community and Family Structures: Some of BLM's statements have called for a rethinking of traditional family structures, which some critics interpret as aligned with Marxist views on abolishing the nuclear family. This perspective emphasizes community-based care over traditional family norms​ (Foundation for Economic Education)​.

5.      Anti-Capitalist Sentiments: BLM has criticized the capitalist system as inherently exploitative and has expressed support for policies and movements that challenge corporate power and advocate for greater economic equality, resonating with Marxist critiques of capitalism​ (Socialist Alternative)​​ (The Heritage Foundation)​.

While these elements reflect some ideological overlaps between BLM and Marxist theory, it's important to note that the broader BLM movement includes a wide range of supporters and activists, many of whom may not explicitly identify with or even be aware of these Marxist connections. The movement's primary focus remains on combating systemic racism and advocating for racial justice.

I

Inside The Transgender Empire by Christopher F. Rufo (cut and paste address to your web browser)

https://christopherrufo.com/p/inside-the-transgender-empire