I decided against anonymity well over a decade ago in a very different world where cancel culture was not yet a thing. Thus far, I suspect I've only made a down payment on that decision, but there's no taking it back at this point. What's done is done.
But I will by no means judge another man for choosing differently. Scripture and history alike show us that there is both a time to embrace persecution and a time to put it off for another day. When Paul escaped Damascus in a basket, was he refusing the accept the consequences of proclaiming Christ in the synagogues? When Luther was anonymous under a pseudonym at Wartburg, was he failing to show himself a man? When Jesus repeatedly slipped away from those trying to stone him because his hour had not yet come, was he "cowering"?
What gives you the right to judge another man for making that choice in their lives and according to their own God-given wisdom and vocations? In my own experience, the deepest wounds have been inflicted by members of the LCMS. I cannot see shaming people for anonymity as anything other than a deliberate attempt to induce vulnerability in those with whom you disagree.
Reverend Beane, are you familiar with the story of Junker Jörg?
I decided against anonymity well over a decade ago in a very different world where cancel culture was not yet a thing. Thus far, I suspect I've only made a down payment on that decision, but there's no taking it back at this point. What's done is done.
But I will by no means judge another man for choosing differently. Scripture and history alike show us that there is both a time to embrace persecution and a time to put it off for another day. When Paul escaped Damascus in a basket, was he refusing the accept the consequences of proclaiming Christ in the synagogues? When Luther was anonymous under a pseudonym at Wartburg, was he failing to show himself a man? When Jesus repeatedly slipped away from those trying to stone him because his hour had not yet come, was he "cowering"?
What gives you the right to judge another man for making that choice in their lives and according to their own God-given wisdom and vocations? In my own experience, the deepest wounds have been inflicted by members of the LCMS. I cannot see shaming people for anonymity as anything other than a deliberate attempt to induce vulnerability in those with whom you disagree.
There wouldn’t be a public discussion in the synod without anons. You’re welcome, Rev. Beane.