Fair point and thanks for sharing. I just think we'd want to balance those passages with others such as Jesus calling out religious leaders in public ("brood of vipers") and Paul's labeling of various Philippians as "dogs" and "false circumcision." I'm cool with giving the benefit of the doubt, though I also think assessing someone's character and treating them accordingly is wise and shrewd.
When you mentioned in the article that your "first reaction is to be cautious when meeting a leader for the first time" which would mean you wouldn't know much about them. I would say your scenario is different from what Paul or Jesus knew beforehand about these people.
I'm not sure being "cautious" in showing someone respect is a good idea. What about giving them the benefit of the doubt whether or not they have been to seminary or even have a proven track record. Wives aren't told to submit to their husbands only after he has earned it or proved himself. Another example is 1 Peter 2:18 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable.
The spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius are a great way to deepen your relationship with Jesus. They transcend the superficial qualities we present to others, and get to the core of who we are, what our God-given gifts are and how He wants us to use them for humanity. Once you have deep communion with God, you won't accept living any other way. If people can reach that level of consciousness by following those spiritual exercises developed 500 years ago, they will become disciples for life.
Fair point and thanks for sharing. I just think we'd want to balance those passages with others such as Jesus calling out religious leaders in public ("brood of vipers") and Paul's labeling of various Philippians as "dogs" and "false circumcision." I'm cool with giving the benefit of the doubt, though I also think assessing someone's character and treating them accordingly is wise and shrewd.
When you mentioned in the article that your "first reaction is to be cautious when meeting a leader for the first time" which would mean you wouldn't know much about them. I would say your scenario is different from what Paul or Jesus knew beforehand about these people.
I'm not sure being "cautious" in showing someone respect is a good idea. What about giving them the benefit of the doubt whether or not they have been to seminary or even have a proven track record. Wives aren't told to submit to their husbands only after he has earned it or proved himself. Another example is 1 Peter 2:18 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable.
The spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius are a great way to deepen your relationship with Jesus. They transcend the superficial qualities we present to others, and get to the core of who we are, what our God-given gifts are and how He wants us to use them for humanity. Once you have deep communion with God, you won't accept living any other way. If people can reach that level of consciousness by following those spiritual exercises developed 500 years ago, they will become disciples for life.
Excellent Christopher. I start my first round of the exercises in about a month with a great group.