Ask a Pastor Column

Q: Why is it that religions are better known for producing negative consequences (holy wars, conflicts with science, intolerance...), rather than positive ones?

A: The key word to this question is the word “known.” We live in a culture that shaves and spins truth in various ways. Too often reality takes a back seat to perspective. So, if we listen to those in our culture who have strong anti-religious feelings, we tend to hear stories which fit that perspective. Nowadays there is a real need to take every perspective with a grain of salt and go back to the facts to see what is real and true.

W...