While ATLiV's intent might have been as stated, he isn't the first (nor will he be the last) to have voiced concerns as to iconography. My response wasn't entirely directed as those who truly worry about the worship styles of others running afoul of God's will, but to those who would condemn iconography as unquestionably sinful.Del wrote:When a fine fellow like ATLIV suggests that God is offended by the statues and icons, he does so out of concern for the salvation of his Old Faith friends. It would be uncharitable for him not to mention this.TNLawPiper wrote:Can't we all just say "different strokes for different folks" and get along with it? Perhaps I say that only because I'm liberal.
We are not offended by his comments, even if we feel compelled to disagree and explain.
Some of the worship styles of other Christian cultures would boggle the minds of American Christians -- especially some Protestants -- but who's to say that repeating the same chorus ad nauseum is any more or less sinful than retreating to an altar to interact with God? He never said, "these are the Holy Spirit's office hours, and here is Its address, subject to change."
One man carries a reproduction of St. Juan's cloak through the streets, saying "praise God for His revelation at Guadalupe," whereas another imagines the words of John 3:16, thinking, "praise God for His salvation at Calvary" -- not appreciably different, in my book.