Dobson

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by James123:
Hey, I was just wondering, Whats wrong with James Dobson? My mother just started to get close w/ God when I was born and started listining to him. She has said that she really likes to listen to him, I dont get to listen to him much, but when I do, I hear nothing wrong. We have a radio staition here in Detroit (AM 1030) That he has a show on around 10:00. Thats why I dont get to hear him much. so whats the dilly-o?<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

James Dobson has done much to bring back, pardon the pun, a focus on the family. This was and is much needed in the Christian life.

The problems with Dobson are several: one, he mixes secular psychology with Christian theology, and very often to the extent where theology is defined by psychology. Secondly, he has become in many areas, a Christian guru of sorts, a protestant pope for many, who recite the mantra "I heard on Dobson" and make it gospel. This is not necessarily his fault, but rather the fault of weak-minded listeners.

Thirdly, and most importantly, he is very weak in theology. He is a Nazarene, and would not be qualified to be a deacon or elder in a Baptist church. Yet many Baptists hang on his every word. He is also fully arminian as far as I can tell, (Nazarenes are) and rejects eternal security and is weak on depravity, election and God's sovereignty.

He also has some strong ecumenical leanings. Recent broadcasts have had him host a family expert who was a Jewish rabbi, and no mention of Christ was on that show (and the omission of Christ is quite frequent on his programs, at least what I have heard).

Overall his family counseling and advice can eb beneficial, but as with all teachers on radio or tv, Christian discernment must be tuned to its highest level when listening.

 

I agree with Chris Temple one hundred percent. The problem with a discussion
about Dobson is that he is such an icon and he does a lot of good that its hard to point out all the problems he has. You are treading on Dobson ground. Same is true of Billy Graham. A couple of years ago my wife and I were able to go to Colorado Springs. We made it a point to visit Focus on the Family. I am very glad that I did. It was much bigger than I thought. When you visit there they ask you to fill out a survey on what you think of the show. I wrote in that there is too much focus on psychology and not enough on Theology. Theology solves problems that psychology does not. I recently heard that same show that Chris was speaking of with the Jewish rabbi. Amy (my wife) and I were both listening to it at the same time. She likes Dobson more than I do, and it caused us to have a bit of a discussion. -Of course I won, right honey It demonstrated Dobson’s ecumenical thinking at its peak.

Chris Temple, I really enjoyed your post. Thanks greatly!

 

I listen to Dobson at times. I accept what is beneficial and reject what is false. (I do that on Sunday mornings at church too!) But fotf is not a church organization, and his ecumenicism is no threat.

 

Dr. Dobson has been a great source of help in many homes including mine. I am currently reading a book of his about saving marriages and it has been so helpful. I really believe that some (not all) secular phsycology is needed of course with all biblical back up and I believe Dobson does this.

Sue

 

My dislike of Dobson comes from his use of "theology" to backup his ultra right-wing political agenda.

When he stuck to areas of child rearing (his area of expertise) I felt like he made some solid points. I even agree with some of his work in adult relationships, although I disagree with his views on gender roles (I once heard him say that there was no example of a father staying at home with their children and being fulfilled). Beyond that, I don't have much use for him or his homophobic organization.

Joshua

 

The most important thing to remember about James Dobson is that he's not a theologian or a preacher (so why he was on a list of the ten worst preachers, I have no idea) and he doesn't claim to be.

He's been more than clear that his area of expertise is, first and foremost, psychology.

That having been said, like all Christians, his world view is influenced by the Bible. When he expresses an opinion on his radio show, he shouldn't be held to any higher standard than any other "rank and file" Christian.

I enjoy his show and have gotten a lot out of it. To the best of my memory, he hasn't said anything that I disagree with (or at least not anything pertaining to essential doctrine that I disagree with.)

Chris, would you please elaborate on the charge that Dobson dismisses the doctrines of eternal security or God's sovereignty?

As for Dobson's having Catholics and Orthodox Jews as guests, there are times when Catholics and Orthodox Jews are right.

When they are right, whether by accident or by design, we should stand with them.

[ July 14, 2002, 10:53 PM: Message edited by: Smoke_Eater ]

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>... I don't have much use for him or his homophobic organization.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think "homophobic" by definition would be someone scared of homosexuals. Dobson doesn't seem to be scared of homosexuals. And nor are most people. I certainly am not. What I am, and on this issue what Dobson is, is committed to Scripture's teaching on sexual relationships.

To call someone homophobic is insulting and betrays a lack of understanding of the issues involved. It is politically correct but biblically wrong.

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Pastor Larry:
To call someone homophobic is insulting and betrays a lack of understanding of the issues involved. It is politically correct but biblically wrong.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

And of course, acceptance of homosexuality is un-Christian and un-biblical.

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Rev. Joshua Villines:
My dislike of Dobson comes from his use of "theology" to backup his ultra right-wing political agenda.

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

What, exactly, is that agenda?

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chet:
Same is true of Billy Graham.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Sorry, but I have to disagree with the comparison of Dobson and Billy Graham. Billy Graham's entire life has been focused at "bringing people to Jesus Christ". He is a man, therefore he is a sinner like all of us. But, his intentions and his theology have always been on a somewhat higher plane than Dobson. No comparison here...read the response above about Dobson's beliefs.

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Pastor Larry:


I think "homophobic" by definition would be someone scared of homosexuals. Dobson doesn't seem to be scared of homosexuals. And nor are most people. I certainly am not. What I am, and on this issue what Dobson is, is committed to Scripture's teaching on sexual relationships.

To call someone homophobic is insulting and betrays a lack of understanding of the issues involved. It is politically correct but biblically wrong.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

AMEN, PASTOR LARRY --- THANK YOU!

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Phillip:


Sorry, but I have to disagree with the comparison of Dobson and Billy Graham. Billy Graham's entire life has been focused at "bringing people to Jesus Christ". He is a man, therefore he is a sinner like all of us. But, his intentions and his theology have always been on a somewhat higher plane than Dobson. No comparison here...read the response above about Dobson's beliefs. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

In one sense, Billy Graham is far worse than Dobson. Dobson does not claim to be an evangelist; BG does. Yet his "gospel" is a weak, watered-down ecumenical message. He has called the pope the greatest evangelist of the 20th Century, and stands among Catholics and Muslims in the National Cathedral giving a message of the cross "to Christians only". He has told Larry King and Robert Schuller he believes people who have never heard of Christ can be saved nevertheless.

And he is "loved" by all, religious and secular both. Why? Could it be a lack of a convicting message? Curious when compared to Jesus words:

John 15:18 ¶ "If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.
19 "If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
20 "Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.
21 "But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.

 

Bible also says If you are for me you are not agasint me. Billy Grahm has a very convicting message and has won thousands to Jesus Christ...and how many have you won? Hmmm

sue

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by myreflection26:
Bible also says If you are for me you are not agasint me. Billy Grahm has a very convicting message and has won thousands to Jesus Christ...and how many have you won? Hmmm

sue<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

So is faithfulness and fidelity to God measured in supposed numbers? If so many have been "won to Christ" by BG over the 50 or 60 years he has been preaching, why is the U.S. in so much worse spiritual condition today than it was 60 years ago?

I advise you to read

Billy Graham Believes Catholic Doctrine of Salvation Without Bible, Gospel, or Name of Christ

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Pastor Larry:


I think "homophobic" by definition would be someone scared of homosexuals. Dobson doesn't seem to be scared of homosexuals. And nor are most people. I certainly am not. What I am, and on this issue what Dobson is, is committed to Scripture's teaching on sexual relationships.

To call someone homophobic is insulting and betrays a lack of understanding of the issues involved. It is politically correct but biblically wrong.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Larry,

It was intended to be insulting. As a clergyperson who's ministry has involved, to a large extent, working for ecclesiatical affirmation of homosexuality, I am well aware of the issues involved.

I genuinely belive that Dobson and others of his ilk are homophobic. Some of his mailings seem almost obsessed with his fear of some mythical "homosexual agenda" that is trying to "take over" our governments and our schools.

I have no desire to turn this thread into a debate of homosexuality. We've all had those discussions ad nauseum. We were all listing our views on Dobson and I (whom most of the board regulars already know to be pro-gay) was simply voicing mine.

Joshua

 

Chris,

Where do you get that it is worse now then back then? We've had some very good spiritual growth in our country and yet downfalls but worse? Nope! Keep in mind that we have way more in the population of the world then thousands...I don't think Billy's ministry has reached every person in this world that it could reach. Fact still remains Billy's heart has shown to be in the right place of serving God and now his son is following in his footsteps of ministering.

Sue

 

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Rev. Joshua Villines:


Larry,

It was intended to be insulting.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>


It is disappointing that you feel compelled to be insulting. Scripture warns against such approaches. In fact, just this very hour I am considering Titus 3:2 for our eveninn Bible study where a believer is "to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men." Putting aside the issue of homosexuality for the moment, you are clearly disobedient to this text by intending to be insulting, assuming that you are not denying the personhood of Dobson.

Furthermore, as a clergyman, you are to follow the command of 2 Tim 2:24-26:

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, 25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

If you truly believe you are right on this issue, you are to pray and work gently, not to insult. Your actions that intend insults disqualify you from ministry. There is a time to stand up for truth but even then, intentional insults are far removed from biblical method of handling those.

Dobson and those of his "ilk" are aware of the stated agenda of the homosexual lobby. This is not some "secret agenda." It has been stated and well-publicized in a number of places by groups such as the NAMBLA, PFLAG, ACT-UP, etc. If you are not aware of this (which seems hard to believe), then you should do some research into current events. There is a legitimate cause for concern for the homosexual movement in this country. I am sure for you it is not a radical agenda. However, for you, those who hold a biblical position are threatening. What we have is two sides that are diametrically opposed to each other. One side upholds the dignity of man in the image of God and affirms the priority of biblical truth and the other side pretends that man is no more than an animal to live and seek his own pleasure at whatever cost. The reason that Dobson and others speak out against this is that there is a call for a voice of sanity in the midst of self-destruction.

You object to those who hold a position such as I and others do. Should I call you heterophobic? Or perhaps, naturalphobic? Are you really scared of us and our "agenda"?

[ September 19, 2001: Message edited by: Pastor Larry ]