By now, many of you will have heard about the interview in which Glenn Beck promotes his book "A Christmas Sweater" being 'pulled' by Focus on the Family (FotF) in light of some protests.
The whole story can be found on "tv newser":
Cliff's/Cole's Notes version: Glenn was interviewed by FotF while promoting his book, and the interview was on their website. An evangelical theological 'watchdog' group opposing Mormon doctrines & practices pressured FotF to remove the interview because it was, they said, inappropriate for a Christian site to promote a Mormon's materials. Pressured, FotF pulled the article. Links to comments by all parties can be found in the "tv newser" link.
Should Christians boycott 'The Christmas Sweater' because it was authored by a Mormon? Emphatically, NO.
I personally admire Glenn for his show which I have listened to when I could since the first day it was broadcast in 610 WIOD, Florida. He typically handles difficult topics with humor, insight and a self-deprecating style, and seems to try to frame issues in terms of right/wrong more than right/left.
I also admire Dr. Dobson, and his tireless work trying to strengthen families in USA, and beyond.
That said, I think it is foolish to 'blackball' this book.
I have personally purchased 4 copies and gave them as gifts. I have read the book and enjoyed it.
It is a redemption story (small-r redemption). It is a story that elevates family above the usual materialism we are inundated with, especially in the holidays.
It even explicitly names Jesus in a positive sense, which is more than I expected from the book.
It is not a book of doctrine, nor is it principally an evangelistic tool. It is a call back to a simpler way of life, in which we valued stuff a little less, and each other a little more. (If it is doctrine you seek, look to the Bible, or a good textbook.)
Has any such watchdog group seriously railed against "A Christmas Carol"?
Dickens's classic is the quintessential warm-fuzzies Christmas redemption story, but theologically, it's a nightmare. (To say nothing of the doctrine of other well-worn favorites like "It's a Wonderful Life") Do we ban them? Or do we let them work on our culture to give place to a season in which He is celebrated.
How many novels do we read without asking whether the author is the "right sort of belief"? What about songs we listen to? The Mormon Tabernacle Choir is famous for its rendition of many classical and even explicitly Christian Pieces (Handel, for instance). Many are excellent works despite being produced by someone who does not share my faith.
I am strongly committed to the Christian faith with its historical Christian Doctrines. I believe that LDS presents a view of Jesus contrary to the Biblical one, and one insufficient for salvation. They hold to some doctrinal statements that thoroughly repulse me. I personally reject the book of Mormon (some of which I have read) as antagonistic to, rather than a supplement of, the Christian Bible. Further, I hope that Glenn (to quote Paul the Apostle) would be moved by God to "be even as I am".
These things, however, in no way prevent me from endorsing The Christmas Sweater, which I heartily commend to anyone who could use a refreshing 'back to basics' home-spun feel message.
God Bless you Glenn,
God Bless you reader,
and Have a very Happy New Year.
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