The Wired Word for 09072025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 09/07/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article0.00998d930354.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 09/07/2025 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#truth, #ChristianUnity, #FriendshipAcrossDivides] - #RobertGeorge - #CornelWest - #Dialogue Author: The Wired Word Editorial Team Source: The Wired Word (Lesson for 09/07/2025) Reference: https://thewiredword.com date created: 2025-09-04 15:12 --- # Title: Politically Opposed Professors Become Best Friends ## Table of Contents: - [📝 Summary](#-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#️-notes) - [📖 References](#-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#-action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB Assessment](#-deib-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🔍 DARVO Analysis](#-darvo-analysis) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) --- ## 📝 Summary: The Wired Word highlighted the unlikely but profound friendship between Robert George, a conservative Catholic at Princeton, and Cornel West, a progressive Baptist at Union Theological Seminary. Despite vast political, racial, and theological differences, they model Christian unity, truth-seeking, and respectful dialogue. Their shared values—honesty, reason, faith, and love—have allowed them to co-teach, co-author, and live out a vision of brotherhood in a polarized age. Their example offers lessons for the church and broader society about how respectful disagreement can coexist with deep friendship. --- ## 📖 Main Content: This piece emphasizes: - The power of **dialogue across divides**. - The **importance of truth** as a shared pursuit, not monopolized by any side. - The role of **reason and faith** as guides against the pitfalls of emotion and nihilism. - The **legacy of MLK Jr.** as a model for unity, truth-speaking, and courageous action. - How **Christian virtues** like humility, love, and unity bind people across political differences. ### 🗒️ Notes - Robert George (Catholic conservative, Princeton) & Cornel West (progressive Baptist, Union Seminary) are close friends despite differences. - Their friendship began with a four-hour philosophical debate that blossomed into decades of collaboration. - They co-taught a seminar “Adventures of Ideas” using 12 great books. - Shared faith & truth-seeking are their foundation, not politics. - They co-wrote *Truth Matters: A Dialogue on Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division*. - Both emphasize MLK’s Christian ministry roots, not just civil rights activism. - George: reason must discipline feelings to guide toward truth. - West: warns against nihilism (lovelessness, meaninglessness, indifference). - Their bond shows unity is possible without erasing differences. - Discussion questions framed around honesty, reason vs. emotion, and Christian unity. - Scripture passages reinforce truth-seeking (Psalm 25, John 1, John 16, 1 Peter 3). --- ## 📖 References: - Deseret News coverage of George & West friendship. - Religion News Service feature on their dialogue. - Baylor University event reflections. - The Wired Word lesson (Sept 7, 2025). --- ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: 1. Original: “We recognize nobody has a monopoly on the truth.” Paraphrase: Both professors affirm that truth belongs to no single perspective and must be pursued in community. 2. Original: “Nihilism is the concrete experience of lovelessness and meaninglessness.” Paraphrase: West described nihilism as living without love or meaning, leaving society vulnerable to selfishness and cruelty. --- ## 📰 Newsletter: ✝️ **Unity in Division: What George & West Teach the Church** This week’s Wired Word study tells the story of Robert George (conservative Catholic) and Cornel West (progressive Baptist). Against all odds, these two scholars forged a decades-long friendship grounded in respect, honesty, and a shared passion for truth. Their example of co-teaching, co-writing, and praying together demonstrates how Christian unity can thrive even in disagreement. They remind us: truth is not monopolized, reason must balance feeling, and love is the antidote to nihilism. Their friendship is a powerful call for the church to model respectful dialogue in a divided world. --- ## ✅ Action Items: - Use George & West’s example to frame open-source debates: disagreement can strengthen community if anchored in respect. - Apply their model of **truth-seeking over partisanship** to governance discussions in WordPress and other OSS projects. - Integrate scriptural reflection into **educational sessions** on respectful dialogue in tech communities. - Build **structured spaces for dialogue across ideological divides** in contributor communities. - Explore using their framework as a case study in OSPO leadership development. --- ## 🧪 Hypotheses: - H1: Communities that prioritize honesty sustain stronger trust across ideological lines. - H2: Balancing reason and emotion reduces division in conflict-prone groups. - H3: Shared moral/spiritual frameworks foster resilience in polarized communities. ### 📊 Methodology: - Conduct comparative case studies of OSS communities handling ideological clashes. - Survey contributors on experiences with respectful dialogue vs. polarization. - Textual analysis of governance discussions for patterns of honesty & humility. ### ❓ Questions: - How can we encourage “truth-seeking across difference” in OSS governance? - What role does honesty play in sustaining long-term contributor engagement? - Can faith-rooted virtues (humility, love, unity) translate into secular communities? ### 🔮 Future Research: - Impact of structured dialogue programs in OSS. - Exploring “reason vs. emotion” in decision-making on contributor teams. - Mapping faith-inspired leadership approaches in tech. ### 💡 Implications: - Building respectful dialogue into governance structures could reduce burnout. - Encouraging humility may counteract power struggles in OSS. - Faith-informed frameworks could inspire secular analogues for values-driven governance. --- ## 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment: - **Visual**: Limited visuals; could add infographics on friendship & dialogue. - **Aural**: Strong potential for podcast episodes featuring dialogue clips. - **Verbal**: Rich in narrative, quotes, and philosophical references. - **Kinesthetic**: Could add role-play exercises in dialogue for teaching. - **Logical**: Strong use of deductive reasoning; reason vs. emotion contrast. - **Social**: Dialogue-centered; inherently interpersonal. - **Solitary**: Includes reflection questions for individual journaling. - **Naturalistic**: Minimal nature references; could add metaphors about unity in ecosystems. --- ## 📊 Accessibility Assessment: - ✔ Clear structure, headings, and questions aid navigation. - ⚠ No mention of alt-text or screen reader considerations. - ⚠ Could improve with audio versions for auditory learners. - Suggest adding transcripts and multi-format access. --- ## 🌍 DEIB Assessment: - Inclusive framing of differences (political, racial, theological). - Strong emphasis on Christian unity and mutual respect. - Could expand beyond male, elite academic voices. - Suggest adding diverse case studies of dialogue across class & gender lines. --- ## ✅ Logical Validity: - **Strengths**: - Deductive: “Reason disciplines emotion → clearer truth.” - Inductive: Decades-long friendship = proof of concept. - Causal: Honesty builds unity, dishonesty erodes it. - **Weaknesses**: - Possible appeal to authority in heavy reliance on MLK, Aquinas, Buber. - Slight appeal to emotion in West’s poetic language. - Tone: Warm, philosophical, encouraging, but firm. --- ## 🔍 DARVO Analysis: - **Deny**: None. - **Attack**: None—tone consistently respectful. - **Reverse Victim/Offender**: None—emphasis is mutual humility. - No DARVO tactics detected. --- ## 🔍 SEO Evaluation: - Ke - Summary: Our lesson this week tells the story of two politically opposed professors becoming best friends. Dear Class Members, Our lesson this week tells the story of two politically opposed professors becoming best friends. The relationship between Robert George and Cornel West gives us an opportunity to discuss what it means to be truth-seekers, truth-speakers and people who show Christian unity in a time of division. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Politically Opposed Professors Become Best Friends*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of September 7, 2025** **In the News** Robert George, a professor at Princeton University, is a devout Catholic and a strong conservative. Cornel West, on the other hand, is a Baptist, a professor at Union Theological Seminary and a passionate progressive. One is white and one is black, and they sit at opposite ends of the political spectrum. You might not guess that they are close friends. But, according to *Deseret News*, the two are united by the challenge of being "determined truth-seekers" and "courageous truth-speakers." When they first met, they were both teaching at Princeton. West was asked to interview a professor for a campus magazine, and he chose George, whom he knew only slightly. A half-hour interview turned into a four-hour debate on philosophy, politics, literature and faith. "From the first moment -- some people talk about chemistry -- we had magic," George says. The two decided to co-teach a freshman seminar called "Adventures of Ideas" based on 12 great books. West picked six books, as did George. Students read Augustine's *Confessions*, John Stewart Mill, C.S. Lewis, and Martin Luther King Jr.'s *Letter from Birmingham Jail*, among others. Over two decades, the seeds of the interview and freshman seminar grew into what *Deseret News* calls "a deep friendship and an ongoing dialogue grounded in mutual love and respect. West and George know each other's families, co-teach, travel, pray together, and now share a recently published book *Truth Matters: A Dialogue on Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division*." "Their friendship is a counter to so much of what ails our public life," said Dean Thomas Hibbs at a Baylor University event in 2018, marking the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King's assassination. Baylor arranged the discussion of King's legacy, featuring George and West, as a display of brotherhood from two people of widely different perspectives. "We're a couple of guys with some pretty strong opinions, but we recognize nobody has a monopoly on the truth," said George at the Baylor event. "We have something to learn from each other, even across the lines of religious or theological or philosophical or political difference." According to *Religion News Service*, West and George comfortably took turns highlighting how King had crossed divides in search of his goal of a "beloved community." They agreed that the emphasis on King should be on his role as a Christian minister, though his civil rights activism is also grounded in his being a product of the black community. "The last thing we ever want to do with Brother Martin is view him as some isolated icon on a pedestal to be viewed in a museum," said West. "He's a wave in an ocean, a tradition of a people for 400 years so deeply hated, but taught the world so much about love and how to love." The two scholars noted that King was influenced by the Catholic theologian Thomas Aquinas, the Hindu leader Mohandas Gandhi and the Jewish philosopher Martin Buber. But this deep reservoir of thought did not lead to broad appeal in King's lifetime. George said that King was criticized not only by white racist segregationists but also by black activists who did not agree with his commitment to nonviolence. Recently, West and George appeared at a speaking series in Boston. Said Brandon Terry, a professor at Harvard University who moderated the August 2025 conversation, "Cornell West and Robert George have given us in their friendship and in their teaching a luminous model of what it means to live one of the most urgent but neglected dimensions of democratic life -- the discipline of truth-seeking across difference." West said that he often gets asked why "a conservative vanilla Republican" would spend time with a "chocolate hang-loose Baptist," who is on the opposite end of the ideological spectrum. "What I love about this brother is that even when he is wrong -- that he's honest," West said. West argued that many contemporary public figures posture for attention or career gain, while ignoring honesty and decency. "What happened to character? Character is destiny," West said, citing the Greek philosopher Heraclitus. West said that his friendship and collaboration with George reflects his broader calling to live faithfully, defending what is true and serving "the least of these," even when it comes at personal cost. George is concerned that we are living today in an "age of feeling." He warns that when feelings are not disciplined by reason, they can lead us astray." In Boston, he said, " If we are guided by our emotions, we're guided by our feelings, we're guided by these subjective features of ourselves, we have no very reliable source of truth." For George, reason is a steadier guide than emotion: "My belief is that the least reliable way to find the truth is to consult your untutored feelings." In the relationship between emotion and reason, he noted, it is reason that should be in the "driver's seat." George called for a return to the "medieval ideal," in which faith and reason work together. West added that today is not only an age of feeling but an age of nihilism. "Nihilism is the concrete experience of lovelessness and meaninglessness, touchlessness and not being able to cultivate the capacity to love one's neighbor," West said. Without strong institutions, cultural virtues and deep values to curb greed and indifference, West said, societies risk becoming nihilistic, governed by a "might makes right" mentality. He and George remain good examples of how people can focus on the truth and have fruitful disagreements in a time of division. More on this story can be found at these links: [How Conservative and Progressive Ivy League Professors Became Best Friends.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKTBtxqaouUINJa1JE666-2FOo9Q8pbyHwUFK3JLgz7DDbw9WwVrmn7V7H4hC4pkY9Cv8oJZfoC-2FbAYXuPnppgpUbrdFfyJB9X010fsmq4yOSBYK46_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmRGmZWombOoaMGribYKy1K1RAWHuEBuKFwCLR1qNewYGIfFP3MIJHFxCH-2FCyPSj4fn4CxUafEkCY998pDnLxjO31q2GJ-2BeJEqFNwYhQm35XcfFl1y6Z9LJu3IpMpEgYJ-2FOtaNYz3zl4AzxFkg8IbPnEnxSJwzA-2BOMDXWkZ7QcmV2IOnB9-2FYbylb32J88fvnXJXMbGivtGI3Oot1Q9vzazpA-3D) [*Deseret News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKTBtxqaouUINJa1JE666-2FOo9Q8pbyHwUFK3JLgz7DDbw9WwVrmn7V7H4hC4pkY9Cv8oJZfoC-2FbAYXuPnppgpUbrdFfyJB9X010fsmq4yOSBeA_M_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmVa-2FUoRnL3ulI5-2Bf0upBci5kr2DDDhdR24zqJ54z0LarLU8Ffu-2FCwF6PIIBSJSFgJhGJTG8Hh6KOjjAGpsa0YqTQgnBb5aKBfYAWYddk-2F7ZeoB7OI81rsFGltpga1mddgsmFb9pjtjjhHO6naZVXWCKR4iIU4ImfT2X9xfCxXIVqmmzg4W8TFHyq-2BPXItz7L7GHmurhwFD-2FpaN0TIQLeZfQ-3D) [Talking MLK, Robert George and Cornel West Offer Antidote to Partisanship.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzYRTB-2FyxK9-2BGPdEMKxBWwW89p5egaA2sTeq2wl-2Fl9kb1OHzirDUkNQIfml2O8oft3rgzxUYjUdRNslDKwzFyJ5K15M9GeThDYtbvpI2wnnSbWB9Tz2ACCcbaHWJnYdwZPA-3DuhdW_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmeho79o88uOhR3ttM4hAtnAGyiFksHXhU8UszFZGYD4Q3xC4-2FlaIU3l-2BVws4F86QNAHA923h3lMPV04-2B5iNlzD-2FB-2B3EcwmCqn23P5CA-2FHzAqzQN-2F28LcMLTA7nTRYI5shKuVEcA8ihLNcARO-2FfP1MeEZr4m2a53-2BNYsVrH5I776QMVI-2B3ucGblrOBt2NTVfHteMIXwX98B6lB7fKA14qAWA-3D) [*Religion News Service*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzYRTB-2FyxK9-2BGPdEMKxBWwW89p5egaA2sTeq2wl-2Fl9kb1OHzirDUkNQIfml2O8oft3rgzxUYjUdRNslDKwzFyJ5K15M9GeThDYtbvpI2wnnSbWB9Tz2ACCcbaHWJnYdwZPA-3DSn19_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmaCefzagcYXPr61U71aQuuITEF-2Bbc9-2F927Vw204qncEo4r5ACKynGoBHUNQrcXyJ9C7uTcu5aM-2BZAQ48YdLTfL1csShAzMmV-2FmNy5rAbrqIP-2BapVGRwKMZ4DnM-2FnrtbJJFfvcbNB-2BP-2B7TB8WFAqiNraBhnX463BEgZSisjphDHX43eciQb5dQlDPCzpILAERPJZTfEIn3k6Fm-2F4f06pYlkg-3D) **Applying the News Story** Use this story of the friendship between Robert George and Cornel West as an opportunity to discuss disagreeing respectfully, seeking and speaking the truth, and being united in Christ. **The Big Questions** 1. When, if ever, have you had a friendship across political lines, grounded in mutual love and respect? What enabled you to bridge the divide? 2. Robert George says that he and Cornel West "recognize nobody has a monopoly on the truth. We have something to learn from each other." When have you discovered that no one has a monopoly on the truth? Be specific. What is the benefit of seeking the truth in community? 3. "What I love about this brother is that even when he is wrong -- that he's honest," West said, speaking of George. What is the value of honesty in a relationship? How can it bind people together? Where do you see value in "speaking the truth in love" ([Ephesians 4:15](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2F9xuITdvxpNxFuzW6j6ZGCiR2fIEkOpdDwbTMScQfnSRPewNxdFRqug-2FRs-2FtNM0z71U4_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmZAwsPWxB0spExhSZnBr7W5-2FUqRcRaJDptETldNYxepWfBaeMUnOG2RGPffJiGorBlZdrVJKOdksIcL428BBIu35LWRHk7eKSgB6K-2FKFRAd-2BeVu8-2BFywEOac8fIFrGd6B2yCXKjNhsRm1MUAj6xCi8GDuvrfYCSCGDpFcv-2BmQct74mFWigj3nY1pe-2BJVfq8oYjk-2BYNaubtw31qDRDfJmvmM-3D))? 4. In the relationship between emotion and reason, George noted, it is reason that should be in the "driver's seat." What happens when emotion takes the wheel? How can emotion and reason work together to find God's truth? How are emotion and reason expressed in your church? 5. Without strong institutions, cultural virtues and deep values, societies risk becoming nihilistic, governed by a "might makes right" mentality, according to West. Where do you see this happening today? How can individuals, families and communities of faith move our society in a better direction? What role does Christian unity play in this important work? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Psalm 25:4-5***Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.* (For context, read [Psalm 25:1-10.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxne48HDKdjqsJnrd53iPukmsU-2Fm4J4W-2FGCgqerBsUWjGZSenRcSQJAA62WXiskmk-2Fvm4I_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmV9tq9K5sgRFYV1qMQASWEXiVIJlmnar1mz2GmKLxRhPAEC8W7WzO9CqbC3pFMjlbINj6U5ee7SPK9SILnIOluqwAYqj8m0VsKQ8Ru4QBPUBDmVhPzbIadtIG074nc-2F7cNOsYY3v6e1R2N0msD15FRoi9O6HKlUzOU28x9HMe9V7NDPYQbZFDERAfbt4d7lQcGWZInJ7Ulq5FA1ONP8OTH8-3D)) Psalm 25 is a prayer for guidance and deliverance, said by people who know that they do not have a monopoly on the truth. The first three verses are a request for divine action, followed by four verses that ask God to provide instruction. "Make me to know your ways," says the psalmist to God; "teach me your paths." The psalmist knows that God is the best source of direction, and that good results come from following God's paths. "Lead me in your truth and teach me," says the psalmist, "for you are the God of my salvation." Learning God's truth and following it is the path to salvation, which in the Old Testament is generally understood to be rescue from physical dangers, such as military enemies, illness or general suffering. But salvation is more broadly understood to include health, safety, wealth, power and justice. After asking for mercy and forgiveness (vv. 6-7), the psalmist describes God as "[g]ood and upright" (v. 8) and "the humble" as teachable (v. 9). All of the paths of the Lord are described as "steadfast love and faithfulness" for those who keep his covenant (v. 10). > **Questions:** When has God led you into a new understanding of the truth? Why is it important to be humble and teachable? What is the truth of God's salvation, in your understanding and experience? **John 1:14***And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.* (For context, read [John 1:1-14](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyyJ0A-2BEDvrQGKorIXaiDBib8T9EsZejQScLtk30edZUOIh78A7Jyw7t4mgf0Vgkudcm2_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmbirEUI48kkA2htkYlcUDBOHOBP0bvTcEo3VHsqkGvkGAVO1sjSZZPZCd75A3-2BDv8GQPWRvVfL1bo0hIBqoE1-2F3qA3OLohGJoKNFMCihHQR1schkNJB8PbmchjGcyRkSlF1UKA6sVEtzsUAFUpsYFja3jK1XBOiNNElw4HiaRothlKZ0rpVRpP7nr2-2BghC8D2KrszN6OkVMJZ0OWQ-2BSXWzE-3D).) The first chapter of John is the prologue to the entire gospel, and it introduces the main character of the book: The Word (*Logos*). In John, *Logos* is the Word of God, the principle of divine reason and creative order. The prologue introduces many themes that will run throughout the gospel, including life, light, darkness, glory, grace and truth. In verse 14, the reader learns that "the Word became flesh and lived among us" as Jesus Christ. The word "lived" suggests a temporary place of residence. Literally, it translates as "encamped in a tent or tabernacle," reminding the reader of God's presence with Israel in the tabernacle during the period of wandering in the wilderness. When the Word revealed itself in Jesus, we were able to see "the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth." Glory refers to the appearance of God's presence, grace is God's unmerited favor, and truth is God's reality and revelation. > **Questions:** What does it mean to you that God's Word came into the middle of human life in Jesus? How is Jesus involved in your ongoing search for the truth? Why does it matter that Jesus is full of grace as well as truth? **John 16:13***When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.* (For context, read[John 16:12-15](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxxRMgP-2BMZTq2hLjCFHQ09sUD-2Bx3WSG3z-2BlQYIi7tGNAZ0-2B4-2BTn-2FNCsdIGu20FJbViuPwr_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmUBpxDbwrlzkzIjCZ97d4VMcQ4G8AFosMTeFmwG5weAgVbv2txiHXRiPbya3IN-2BTw7JU2BefmZ88SwCwOHg3ehjBIufl0gndl6qn40FtTY-2ByuP1ZmtIbyf1ojDvLMY3NNxWkP-2BrgxTVYRP8AsvyaNI4L64uc5126GSV0dWvWXmDiEmFHoQO4M1r4-2B5Vqb8ZLqEmByhvIW0DKQ2FQ5RraHfY-3D).) The gospel of John suggests that the search for truth is a process*.* In chapter 16, Jesus is speaking to his followers on the night before his own death, and he is trying to prepare them for the future. He still has many things to say to them, but he does not perform an enormous data dump on them, telling them how to think and act and feel in every potential situation. Instead,he says, "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth." Jesus says that the Holy Spirit is "the Spirit of truth," and the Spirit will continue to work in the lives of the followers of Jesus to guide them "into all the truth." Jesus wants us to know that not every Christian truth was revealed within his earthly ministry. He gives us the Spirit to function as a guide for us, to continue to teach us along the way. In every situation, Jesus says that the Spirit "will take what is mine and declare it to you" (v. 15). > **Questions:** When have you experienced the Spirit leading you into a new understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus? What spiritual attitude can you bring to this Spirit-led process? How does the church sometimes resist this process, and how can it better respond to what the Spirit is doing? **1 Peter 3:8***Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.* (For context, read [1 Peter 3:8-12](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxUbBvCPT3IGwr4COuP-2FpQ6Laqx1qA-2F6e3dQ9BSxULOGbNlhBfD4IZqrfNiNr7-2FqRlgkEM_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmUMEumKMaezwkMXF0mQmPJzhR6YU6-2BD5AD39YmkgVD7peJgLKWeA2DVTUrNZ8TOXrTzrs8sWNtZw5tIUwYOzSJdwjnd2MptFHaKQ8DBYCXSQcu0nasrI1HWsE65Dq3nJ5VRLNKvRGPB07T3hs0B5fkNz7z7ql3StDl9edzS8moVlI11AasSfmxuvAOiY-2BX6Xr-2F36E2jZa3eWKFqaBEGBeCQ-3D).) The apostle Peter wrote his first letter to the followers of Christ in Asia Minor, which is now Turkey, in a time of persecution by residents of the Roman Empire. "Conduct yourselves honorably among the gentiles," he encouraged them, "so that, though they malign you as evildoers, they may see your honorable deeds and glorify God when he comes to judge" (2:12). In chapter 3, Peter offers instructions to wives and husbands, and then summons the entire community to virtuous living in a time of harassment. Although the world is trying to pull them apart, he encourages them to have "unity of spirit." In addition, he challenges them to have "sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind." Like Jesus, Peter counsels against retaliation, saying, "Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse, but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing" (v. 9). > **Questions:** In the church today, what is the value of unity of spirit? How could it be encouraged and supported? What sorts of divisions could be overcome by tender hearts and humble minds? **For Further Discussion** 1. According to [*The Guardian*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzcvtsT4DoSoVCyJ06xvDEFV-2BOjVnkq-2B85Juhcq2oP9ts2ldgHw7znhbMJZKaI4dJrgMRsZf8EFFhHCQ2Y4bADzy7mpduz-2FamkiAaZcIt4q0YvjW6NGSLWy1xKlzkhOvD7ySpo0D7ldWC5GHJEcA6CZWUI1kO4-2BPTVvQXk2KIPcRv7exZLjt5W-2B4D-2Fif10R4bDP9buagDcHXGgMimIIrKx0RubiuNI28pleK1W7LVrbX-2FJqVLRvlyy4pKFv0o0lN4DuUQGf7mu74lt2GsXAiNvxqnfCTOn9PHzgvuYDEup6K9NQNlXRyigaiP4UL61YkvQkYb5xz3rO7fHDbCEpO85WK32DJ-2BlnSxBblijbFPcHUZPGL89We9PChIRDeal2-2FjSz94wPn3ck-2FVusyeXYQO7CcQikOwS4gm4uI3-2Ftjp7fUZw2mVv6mg3w8kSs8lFF2dt17b7Upn8mlgNkEc1mpeoXp8Dc10X3WRnVKSbXWXRs1ffIfrh92-2BPsLe8MkG-2BIg2qYc2IKWPV-2FlPsTK-2FSSf9goASYH3d9oPEAV1-2F9FqGCbGtQz54wGU8ttD0vEMojBHyGIO8m5bZsIDPEGOMBHk-2BPW-2Bg8zfTsLScabIgEz57eurtOLrlxgpbuD6JEoeAVWOZmS-2BaNuws2zPfrQVIxuXw9EINge8_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmSZHMNCS2S5V9XXyR-2BmNgbUishYEFljHhrLNDBKeIsnVdDWFSLjxszOPdlCJrXoS5MyqPgXg3B9w67oRYd-2BiJQR09xl6y6Xo6ttS-2F3r0zG0DesmGU6y8k-2B0HwCu-2B-2F09dfofmcn7l4cCJjCQwDdA74idztnTEW0cbKywzcdU683sjxZSOfd0UMDRT7rAsXq5MNShOsH5H-2FBZRvNoyS3wEz3o-3D), two brothers named Bruce and Scott had not spoken for 15 years. Finally, Bruce picked up the phone and called Scott. "What happened?” Scott asked. "I grew up," Bruce said. "I've been stupid and I really miss you."The brothers had missed a decade and a half of each other's birthdays and milestones, but finally they were talking again. Their situation was not unique: A quarter of the adult population is estranged from a relative; 10% from a parent and 8% from a sibling, according to research. When have you experienced estrangement from a friend or relative? What efforts did you make, if any, to reconcile? Describe the result. What connections do you make between reconciliation and your Christian faith? 2. "It is too easy in these times to find reason for division instead of unity," says TWW Team Member Mary Sells, instead of leaving space for God to reveal the goodness he places in all people. She wonders how we can stand together "as communities, families and believers -- while so much in the worldly messages that surround us tell us to keep divisions growing." What do you do to stand together in your family, congregation and community? Where do you find reasons for unity instead of division? 3. [In the novel](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGRAfabCXRFNA5kzk67Eh1qb1ekNFS9KjCyEjKAoQEW4S4MytAvBg0uLzKKxKHbEdsf8mL5k3t8HLYgXTEK3qWo-3DDLVw_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmciuwaf249q6GTI2QPofZjtU9fl0x1cCDh404NXZiEGSe5WsSbbeZ6eYDi5LwSYcjiP8520dM2tBYchWTcGk2DSPB5-2BtmLDa3WwCiGtDd-2FPYoRfrbVltSwSbzrujh5kIflvfUQbQFeHDkUpK4vayLofz-2BQwche4fECAVsCVmfVk7AnhEzUDw3MRcL8lmuuyKCj2LokMZlXI-2B2pflCCKTmEA-3D) [*War Bug*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGRAfabCXRFNA5kzk67Eh1qb1ekNFS9KjCyEjKAoQEW4S4MytAvBg0uLzKKxKHbEdsf8mL5k3t8HLYgXTEK3qWo-3DQajM_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQme2zn0FO3fUXz7aiGZmM8LdYMdJ0GaIN2xxDsZUzsyoEERvbkRvhxEKzWnuiU-2Bc-2BFnxbt-2FiRRRh1SD7XUPmJDHrvJ2rbVyA812gfjfNiLMia-2FCkGiR4LkR19jweq9t2V8fkm0nnAMgfmv2EVzp2mqnFpoaWKgX-2Bwi986xgfNWKQBeg01-2FRrJEaHWe5jDFG5OGniVR6lFvQi7Pzd-2B1tCHC64-3D), written by TWW Team Member Henry Brinton, a Methodist pastor named Harley Camden sits down for coffee with a church member named Andy Stackhouse. Andy is upset about changes in the church, so he says to Harley, "I'm just concerned that our church -- and even more so, our denomination -- is getting away from the Bible.” Harley sips his coffee and wonders how to respond. Then he has an inspiration and says, "Andy, I know that you are a Civil War buff." "Absolutely." "Think back to the 1860s," says Harley. "Southern preachers took the Bible literally, and they defended slavery. They asked who could question the Word of God when it said, 'slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling.' That's from Paul's letter to the Ephesians." "Yes, I guess that made sense to them," says Andy, "at the time." "And in Paul's letter to Titus: 'tell slaves to be submissive to their masters and to give satisfaction in every respect.' You don't believe that, do you?" "No, I don't," says Andy. "Of course not." "The Christians who wanted to preserve slavery had the literal words of the Bible to back them up," says Harley. "They had all of the clearest scripture verses." The Bible said for slaves to be submissive. But the Holy Spirit came along and guided us into the truth. The search for truth is *a process*, one that is still going on. We should never become too certain about our correctness. When has the Holy Spirit led you to a new understanding of the words of the Bible? Be specific. 4. The biblical prophets were "truth-speakers," but so were later people of faith such as Martin Luther, who took a stand for the gospel, and William Wilberforce, who spoke against slavery. On what issues should the church be speaking today? In what areas can you be a truth-speaker? **Responding to the News** Look for an opportunity to have a respectful dialogue on an important topic with a relative, friend or fellow church member. Try to listen more than speak, and focus your attention on their personal search for truth. Share your own insights in a way that is not combative, and thank them for their honesty. Remember that the search for truth is a Spirit-led process, and that we are helped by building Christian unity as we move forward together. **Prayer** God of truth, we thank you for Christian brothers and sisters who show us how to disagree fruitfully and to remain united in love and respect, even in the middle of disagreements. Help us to be humble and to remember that no one has a monopoly on the truth -- except for your Son Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen. **Copyright 2025 Communication Resources** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=GPSpyWBsxr2ETzaOf_o8IKq1TvkFwJ4OcwZkj7dr3GFoMDAwdTAwMNw72vjJQ9Zi0GuaQJwu5zoTwaqmZgF5KCviIeFidp3ZocBvlv7O6iw5BYNa86BLBpLV__hdTSbZowcjF2EFO2_Yrj_zabsGqttjXPTTbATSFGu_mlmkGoER6fPhQrlyPu9nzUQJKAY9mkoeK0kU-3blyqauzY07baaygExxs4lWBb5FKTn-WAYeA1Dc_maP2lSx_nzDwFOhFlYM1qNpjc0QxBiNT55LdhZKsNXWwC1bfli1LintdkZODzczsSgRmtJk9nLKmTGUfZnSd2-LVi6KblfWLgJ9kTt6BAXXU5TuM9aVkm1U8AGT1L1tRIR0AU6c_xZRBkfDVkcNfGS7YXTBTDX-Ii5ryHeyz8G1ihl9_v08jJxcRBRb0pqwIYW5RPveD2SqY9pW56AJKAfX-cHqdDz8EAoOa95CdzXL_caD4MtlmhdJWTggrfgRTUdJu-OVqsIovkIMO8uMBZP7jDXR-e7ZWcfqXieDmU61p_6Yxs9a8Dibcn_OpcjNWe777VbY-3b-Og4tSLOuyKDcS7Fg8PWB6J5PQD3lFaDvrJ2ox38XdpDX0X4-9618dz6C1wiE0VCFIA0TErFXnW8J1S0n8Sm7La7V4F_L9afHFCia) <div>Dear Class Members, Our lesson this week tells the story of two politically opposed professors becoming best friends. The relationship between Robert George and Cornel West gives us an opportunity to discuss what it means to be truth-seekers, truth-speakers and people who show Christian unity in a time of division. <img alt="" src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/> Politically Opposed Professors Become Best Friends The Wired Word for the Week of September 7, 2025 In the News <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 12.0pt 0in; background: white;"> Robert George, a professor at Princeton University, is a devout Catholic and a strong conservative. Cornel West, on the other hand, is a Baptist, a professor at Union Theological Seminary and a passionate progressive. One is white and one is black, and they sit at opposite ends of the political spectrum. You might not guess that they are close friends. But, according to Deseret News, the two are united by the challenge of being "determined truth-seekers" and "courageous truth-speakers." When they first met, they were both teaching at Princeton. West was asked to interview a professor for a campus magazine, and he chose George, whom he knew only slightly. A half-hour interview turned into a four-hour debate on philosophy, politics, literature and faith. "From the first moment -- some people talk about chemistry -- we had magic," George says. The two decided to co-teach a freshman seminar called "Adventures of Ideas" based on 12 great books. West picked six books, as did George. Students read Augustine's Confessions, John Stewart Mill, C.S. Lewis, and Martin Luther King Jr.'s Letter from Birmingham Jail, among others. Over two decades, the seeds of the interview and freshman seminar grew into what Deseret News calls "a deep friendship and an ongoing dialogue grounded in mutual love and respect. West and George know each other's families, co-teach, travel, pray together, and now share a recently published book Truth Matters: A Dialogue on Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division." "Their friendship is a counter to so much of what ails our public life," said Dean Thomas Hibbs at a Baylor University event in 2018, marking the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King's assassination. Baylor arranged the discussion of King's legacy, featuring George and West, as a display of brotherhood from two people of widely different perspectives. "We're a couple of guys with some pretty strong opinions, but we recognize nobody has a monopoly on the truth," said George at the Baylor event. "We have something to learn from each other, even across the lines of religious or theological or philosophical or political difference." According to Religion News Service, West and George comfortably took turns highlighting how King had crossed divides in search of his goal of a "beloved community." They agreed that the emphasis on King should be on his role as a Christian minister, though his civil rights activism is also grounded in his being a product of the black community. "The last thing we ever want to do with Brother Martin is view him as some isolated icon on a pedestal to be viewed in a museum," said West. "He's a wave in an ocean, a tradition of a people for 400 years so deeply hated, but taught the world so much about love and how to love." The two scholars noted that King was influenced by the Catholic theologian Thomas Aquinas, the Hindu leader Mohandas Gandhi and the Jewish philosopher Martin Buber. But this deep reservoir of thought did not lead to broad appeal in King's lifetime. George said that King was criticized not only by white racist segregationists but also by black activists who did not agree with his commitment to nonviolence. Recently, West and George appeared at a speaking series in Boston. Said Brandon Terry, a professor at Harvard University who moderated the August 2025 conversation, "Cornell West and Robert George have given us in their friendship and in their teaching a luminous model of what it means to live one of the most urgent but neglected dimensions of democratic life -- the discipline of truth-seeking across difference." West said that he often gets asked why "a conservative vanilla Republican" would spend time with a "chocolate hang-loose Baptist," who is on the opposite end of the ideological spectrum. "What I love about this brother is that even when he is wrong -- that he's honest," West said. West argued that many contemporary public figures posture for attention or career gain, while ignoring honesty and decency. "What happened to character? Character is destiny," West said, citing the Greek philosopher Heraclitus. West said that his friendship and collaboration with George reflects his broader calling to live faithfully, defending what is true and serving "the least of these," even when it comes at personal cost. George is concerned that we are living today in an "age of feeling." He warns that when feelings are not disciplined by reason, they can lead us astray." In Boston, he said, " If we are guided by our emotions, we're guided by our feelings, we're guided by these subjective features of ourselves, we have no very reliable source of truth." For George, reason is a steadier guide than emotion: "My belief is that the least reliable way to find the truth is to consult your untutored feelings." In the relationship between emotion and reason, he noted, it is reason that should be in the "driver's seat." George called for a return to the "medieval ideal," in which faith and reason work together. West added that today is not only an age of feeling but an age of nihilism. "Nihilism is the concrete experience of lovelessness and meaninglessness, touchlessness and not being able to cultivate the capacity to love one's neighbor," West said. Without strong institutions, cultural virtues and deep values to curb greed and indifference, West said, societies risk becoming nihilistic, governed by a "might makes right" mentality. He and George remain good examples of how people can focus on the truth and have fruitful disagreements in a time of division. More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKTBtxqaouUINJa1JE666-2FOo9Q8pbyHwUFK3JLgz7DDbw9WwVrmn7V7H4hC4pkY9Cv8oJZfoC-2FbAYXuPnppgpUbrdFfyJB9X010fsmq4yOSBYK46\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmRGmZWombOoaMGribYKy1K1RAWHuEBuKFwCLR1qNewYGIfFP3MIJHFxCH-2FCyPSj4fn4CxUafEkCY998pDnLxjO31q2GJ-2BeJEqFNwYhQm35XcfFl1y6Z9LJu3IpMpEgYJ-2FOtaNYz3zl4AzxFkg8IbPnEnxSJwzA-2BOMDXWkZ7QcmV2IOnB9-2FYbylb32J88fvnXJXMbGivtGI3Oot1Q9vzazpA-3D">How Conservative and Progressive Ivy League Professors Became Best Friends. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKTBtxqaouUINJa1JE666-2FOo9Q8pbyHwUFK3JLgz7DDbw9WwVrmn7V7H4hC4pkY9Cv8oJZfoC-2FbAYXuPnppgpUbrdFfyJB9X010fsmq4yOSBeA\_M\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmVa-2FUoRnL3ulI5-2Bf0upBci5kr2DDDhdR24zqJ54z0LarLU8Ffu-2FCwF6PIIBSJSFgJhGJTG8Hh6KOjjAGpsa0YqTQgnBb5aKBfYAWYddk-2F7ZeoB7OI81rsFGltpga1mddgsmFb9pjtjjhHO6naZVXWCKR4iIU4ImfT2X9xfCxXIVqmmzg4W8TFHyq-2BPXItz7L7GHmurhwFD-2FpaN0TIQLeZfQ-3D">Deseret News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzYRTB-2FyxK9-2BGPdEMKxBWwW89p5egaA2sTeq2wl-2Fl9kb1OHzirDUkNQIfml2O8oft3rgzxUYjUdRNslDKwzFyJ5K15M9GeThDYtbvpI2wnnSbWB9Tz2ACCcbaHWJnYdwZPA-3DuhdW\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmeho79o88uOhR3ttM4hAtnAGyiFksHXhU8UszFZGYD4Q3xC4-2FlaIU3l-2BVws4F86QNAHA923h3lMPV04-2B5iNlzD-2FB-2B3EcwmCqn23P5CA-2FHzAqzQN-2F28LcMLTA7nTRYI5shKuVEcA8ihLNcARO-2FfP1MeEZr4m2a53-2BNYsVrH5I776QMVI-2B3ucGblrOBt2NTVfHteMIXwX98B6lB7fKA14qAWA-3D">Talking MLK, Robert George and Cornel West Offer Antidote to Partisanship. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzYRTB-2FyxK9-2BGPdEMKxBWwW89p5egaA2sTeq2wl-2Fl9kb1OHzirDUkNQIfml2O8oft3rgzxUYjUdRNslDKwzFyJ5K15M9GeThDYtbvpI2wnnSbWB9Tz2ACCcbaHWJnYdwZPA-3DSn19\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmaCefzagcYXPr61U71aQuuITEF-2Bbc9-2F927Vw204qncEo4r5ACKynGoBHUNQrcXyJ9C7uTcu5aM-2BZAQ48YdLTfL1csShAzMmV-2FmNy5rAbrqIP-2BapVGRwKMZ4DnM-2FnrtbJJFfvcbNB-2BP-2B7TB8WFAqiNraBhnX463BEgZSisjphDHX43eciQb5dQlDPCzpILAERPJZTfEIn3k6Fm-2F4f06pYlkg-3D">Religion News Service</a> Applying the News Story Use this story of the friendship between Robert George and Cornel West as an opportunity to discuss disagreeing respectfully, seeking and speaking the truth, and being united in Christ. The Big Questions 1. When, if ever, have you had a friendship across political lines, grounded in mutual love and respect? What enabled you to bridge the divide? 2. Robert George says that he and Cornel West "recognize nobody has a monopoly on the truth. We have something to learn from each other." When have you discovered that no one has a monopoly on the truth? Be specific. What is the benefit of seeking the truth in community? 3. "What I love about this brother is that even when he is wrong -- that he's honest," West said, speaking of George. What is the value of honesty in a relationship? How can it bind people together? Where do you see value in "speaking the truth in love" (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2F9xuITdvxpNxFuzW6j6ZGCiR2fIEkOpdDwbTMScQfnSRPewNxdFRqug-2FRs-2FtNM0z71U4\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmZAwsPWxB0spExhSZnBr7W5-2FUqRcRaJDptETldNYxepWfBaeMUnOG2RGPffJiGorBlZdrVJKOdksIcL428BBIu35LWRHk7eKSgB6K-2FKFRAd-2BeVu8-2BFywEOac8fIFrGd6B2yCXKjNhsRm1MUAj6xCi8GDuvrfYCSCGDpFcv-2BmQct74mFWigj3nY1pe-2BJVfq8oYjk-2BYNaubtw31qDRDfJmvmM-3D">Ephesians 4:15</a>)? 4. In the relationship between emotion and reason, George noted, it is reason that should be in the "driver's seat." What happens when emotion takes the wheel? How can emotion and reason work together to find God's truth? How are emotion and reason expressed in your church? 5. Without strong institutions, cultural virtues and deep values, societies risk becoming nihilistic, governed by a "might makes right" mentality, according to West. Where do you see this happening today? How can individuals, families and communities of faith move our society in a better direction? What role does Christian unity play in this important work? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Psalm 25:4-5 Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxne48HDKdjqsJnrd53iPukmsU-2Fm4J4W-2FGCgqerBsUWjGZSenRcSQJAA62WXiskmk-2Fvm4I\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmV9tq9K5sgRFYV1qMQASWEXiVIJlmnar1mz2GmKLxRhPAEC8W7WzO9CqbC3pFMjlbINj6U5ee7SPK9SILnIOluqwAYqj8m0VsKQ8Ru4QBPUBDmVhPzbIadtIG074nc-2F7cNOsYY3v6e1R2N0msD15FRoi9O6HKlUzOU28x9HMe9V7NDPYQbZFDERAfbt4d7lQcGWZInJ7Ulq5FA1ONP8OTH8-3D">Psalm 25:1-10.</a>) Psalm 25 is a prayer for guidance and deliverance, said by people who know that they do not have a monopoly on the truth. The first three verses are a request for divine action, followed by four verses that ask God to provide instruction. "Make me to know your ways," says the psalmist to God; "teach me your paths." The psalmist knows that God is the best source of direction, and that good results come from following God's paths. "Lead me in your truth and teach me," says the psalmist, "for you are the God of my salvation." Learning God's truth and following it is the path to salvation, which in the Old Testament is generally understood to be rescue from physical dangers, such as military enemies, illness or general suffering. But salvation is more broadly understood to include health, safety, wealth, power and justice. After asking for mercy and forgiveness (vv. 6-7), the psalmist describes God as "[g]ood and upright" (v. 8) and "the humble" as teachable (v. 9). All of the paths of the Lord are described as "steadfast love and faithfulness" for those who keep his covenant (v. 10). <blockquote> Questions: When has God led you into a new understanding of the truth? Why is it important to be humble and teachable? What is the truth of God's salvation, in your understanding and experience? </blockquote> John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyyJ0A-2BEDvrQGKorIXaiDBib8T9EsZejQScLtk30edZUOIh78A7Jyw7t4mgf0Vgkudcm2\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmbirEUI48kkA2htkYlcUDBOHOBP0bvTcEo3VHsqkGvkGAVO1sjSZZPZCd75A3-2BDv8GQPWRvVfL1bo0hIBqoE1-2F3qA3OLohGJoKNFMCihHQR1schkNJB8PbmchjGcyRkSlF1UKA6sVEtzsUAFUpsYFja3jK1XBOiNNElw4HiaRothlKZ0rpVRpP7nr2-2BghC8D2KrszN6OkVMJZ0OWQ-2BSXWzE-3D">John 1:1-14</a>.) The first chapter of John is the prologue to the entire gospel, and it introduces the main character of the book: The Word (Logos). In John, Logos is the Word of God, the principle of divine reason and creative order. The prologue introduces many themes that will run throughout the gospel, including life, light, darkness, glory, grace and truth. In verse 14, the reader learns that "the Word became flesh and lived among us" as Jesus Christ. The word "lived" suggests a temporary place of residence. Literally, it translates as "encamped in a tent or tabernacle," reminding the reader of God's presence with Israel in the tabernacle during the period of wandering in the wilderness. When the Word revealed itself in Jesus, we were able to see "the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth." Glory refers to the appearance of God's presence, grace is God's unmerited favor, and truth is God's reality and revelation. <blockquote> Questions: What does it mean to you that God's Word came into the middle of human life in Jesus? How is Jesus involved in your ongoing search for the truth? Why does it matter that Jesus is full of grace as well as truth? </blockquote> John 16:13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (For context, read<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxxRMgP-2BMZTq2hLjCFHQ09sUD-2Bx3WSG3z-2BlQYIi7tGNAZ0-2B4-2BTn-2FNCsdIGu20FJbViKHVG\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmZqiqKi0GBzyW7gPfSU-2BUNz8OAJREC6yr3oqWjRZUMt1GEBaiM73yFXdisxMmeM0uxezhS0qecTrd9H74woicbb-2BJ8Q-2Bj0sEQEo8RAFFU-2BjdKC3zD9AxTb46XmCXOiP1-2BK9zwZyXkoW-2FE25K1Agnzk3rUJJUtxbFFuEaehfYw7g41dK-2Bcqeu8Yvg-2FuivIJDwkkBV3ga9ullhMmjZ-2BRfhc7M-3D"> </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxxRMgP-2BMZTq2hLjCFHQ09sUD-2Bx3WSG3z-2BlQYIi7tGNAZ0-2B4-2BTn-2FNCsdIGu20FJbViuPwr\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmUBpxDbwrlzkzIjCZ97d4VMcQ4G8AFosMTeFmwG5weAgVbv2txiHXRiPbya3IN-2BTw7JU2BefmZ88SwCwOHg3ehjBIufl0gndl6qn40FtTY-2ByuP1ZmtIbyf1ojDvLMY3NNxWkP-2BrgxTVYRP8AsvyaNI4L64uc5126GSV0dWvWXmDiEmFHoQO4M1r4-2B5Vqb8ZLqEmByhvIW0DKQ2FQ5RraHfY-3D">John 16:12-15</a>.) The gospel of John suggests that the search for truth is a process. In chapter 16, Jesus is speaking to his followers on the night before his own death, and he is trying to prepare them for the future. He still has many things to say to them, but he does not perform an enormous data dump on them, telling them how to think and act and feel in every potential situation. Instead,he says, "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth." Jesus says that the Holy Spirit is "the Spirit of truth," and the Spirit will continue to work in the lives of the followers of Jesus to guide them "into all the truth." Jesus wants us to know that not every Christian truth was revealed within his earthly ministry. He gives us the Spirit to function as a guide for us, to continue to teach us along the way. In every situation, Jesus says that the Spirit "will take what is mine and declare it to you" (v. 15). <blockquote> Questions: When have you experienced the Spirit leading you into a new understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus? What spiritual attitude can you bring to this Spirit-led process? How does the church sometimes resist this process, and how can it better respond to what the Spirit is doing? </blockquote> 1 Peter 3:8 Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxUbBvCPT3IGwr4COuP-2FpQ6Laqx1qA-2F6e3dQ9BSxULOGbNlhBfD4IZqrfNiNr7-2FqRlgkEM\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmUMEumKMaezwkMXF0mQmPJzhR6YU6-2BD5AD39YmkgVD7peJgLKWeA2DVTUrNZ8TOXrTzrs8sWNtZw5tIUwYOzSJdwjnd2MptFHaKQ8DBYCXSQcu0nasrI1HWsE65Dq3nJ5VRLNKvRGPB07T3hs0B5fkNz7z7ql3StDl9edzS8moVlI11AasSfmxuvAOiY-2BX6Xr-2F36E2jZa3eWKFqaBEGBeCQ-3D">1 Peter 3:8-12</a>.) The apostle Peter wrote his first letter to the followers of Christ in Asia Minor, which is now Turkey, in a time of persecution by residents of the Roman Empire. "Conduct yourselves honorably among the gentiles," he encouraged them, "so that, though they malign you as evildoers, they may see your honorable deeds and glorify God when he comes to judge" (2:12). In chapter 3, Peter offers instructions to wives and husbands, and then summons the entire community to virtuous living in a time of harassment. Although the world is trying to pull them apart, he encourages them to have "unity of spirit." In addition, he challenges them to have "sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind." Like Jesus, Peter counsels against retaliation, saying, "Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse, but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing" (v. 9). <blockquote> Questions: In the church today, what is the value of unity of spirit? How could it be encouraged and supported? What sorts of divisions could be overcome by tender hearts and humble minds? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. According to <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzcvtsT4DoSoVCyJ06xvDEFV-2BOjVnkq-2B85Juhcq2oP9ts2ldgHw7znhbMJZKaI4dJrgMRsZf8EFFhHCQ2Y4bADzy7mpduz-2FamkiAaZcIt4q0YvjW6NGSLWy1xKlzkhOvD7ySpo0D7ldWC5GHJEcA6CZWUI1kO4-2BPTVvQXk2KIPcRv7exZLjt5W-2B4D-2Fif10R4bDP9buagDcHXGgMimIIrKx0RubiuNI28pleK1W7LVrbX-2FJqVLRvlyy4pKFv0o0lN4DuUQGf7mu74lt2GsXAiNvxqnfCTOn9PHzgvuYDEup6K9NQNlXRyigaiP4UL61YkvQkYb5xz3rO7fHDbCEpO85WK32DJ-2BlnSxBblijbFPcHUZPGL89We9PChIRDeal2-2FjSz94wPn3ck-2FVusyeXYQO7CcQikOwS4gm4uI3-2Ftjp7fUZw2mVv6mg3w8kSs8lFF2dt17b7Upn8mlgNkEc1mpeoXp8Dc10X3WRnVKSbXWXRs1ffIfrh92-2BPsLe8MkG-2BIg2qYc2IKWPV-2FlPsTK-2FSSf9goASYH3d9oPEAV1-2F9FqGCbGtQz54wGU8ttD0vEMojBHyGIO8m5bZsIDPEGOMBHk-2BPW-2Bg8zfTsLScabIgEz57eurtOLrlxgpbuD6JEoeAVWOZmS-2BaNuws2zPfrQVIxuXw9EINge8\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmSZHMNCS2S5V9XXyR-2BmNgbUishYEFljHhrLNDBKeIsnVdDWFSLjxszOPdlCJrXoS5MyqPgXg3B9w67oRYd-2BiJQR09xl6y6Xo6ttS-2F3r0zG0DesmGU6y8k-2B0HwCu-2B-2F09dfofmcn7l4cCJjCQwDdA74idztnTEW0cbKywzcdU683sjxZSOfd0UMDRT7rAsXq5MNShOsH5H-2FBZRvNoyS3wEz3o-3D">The Guardian</a>, two brothers named Bruce and Scott had not spoken for 15 years. Finally, Bruce picked up the phone and called Scott. "What happened?” Scott asked. "I grew up," Bruce said. "I've been stupid and I really miss you." The brothers had missed a decade and a half of each other's birthdays and milestones, but finally they were talking again. Their situation was not unique: A quarter of the adult population is estranged from a relative; 10% from a parent and 8% from a sibling, according to research. When have you experienced estrangement from a friend or relative? What efforts did you make, if any, to reconcile? Describe the result. What connections do you make between reconciliation and your Christian faith? 2. "It is too easy in these times to find reason for division instead of unity," says TWW Team Member Mary Sells, instead of leaving space for God to reveal the goodness he places in all people. She wonders how we can stand together "as communities, families and believers -- while so much in the worldly messages that surround us tell us to keep divisions growing." What do you do to stand together in your family, congregation and community? Where do you find reasons for unity instead of division? 3. <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGRAfabCXRFNA5kzk67Eh1qb1ekNFS9KjCyEjKAoQEW4S4MytAvBg0uLzKKxKHbEdsf8mL5k3t8HLYgXTEK3qWo-3DDLVw\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQmciuwaf249q6GTI2QPofZjtU9fl0x1cCDh404NXZiEGSe5WsSbbeZ6eYDi5LwSYcjiP8520dM2tBYchWTcGk2DSPB5-2BtmLDa3WwCiGtDd-2FPYoRfrbVltSwSbzrujh5kIflvfUQbQFeHDkUpK4vayLofz-2BQwche4fECAVsCVmfVk7AnhEzUDw3MRcL8lmuuyKCj2LokMZlXI-2B2pflCCKTmEA-3D">In the novel </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGRAfabCXRFNA5kzk67Eh1qb1ekNFS9KjCyEjKAoQEW4S4MytAvBg0uLzKKxKHbEdsf8mL5k3t8HLYgXTEK3qWo-3DQajM\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmWd2qO35i6Kld7hkc6Dfpn46J-2FYrJwLSgu2dP2RFAnUtB6QwWewMWXcl2Fr-2BEWCQme2zn0FO3fUXz7aiGZmM8LdYMdJ0GaIN2xxDsZUzsyoEERvbkRvhxEKzWnuiU-2Bc-2BFnxbt-2FiRRRh1SD7XUPmJDHrvJ2rbVyA812gfjfNiLMia-2FCkGiR4LkR19jweq9t2V8fkm0nnAMgfmv2EVzp2mqnFpoaWKgX-2Bwi986xgfNWKQBeg01-2FRrJEaHWe5jDFG5OGniVR6lFvQi7Pzd-2B1tCHC64-3D">War Bug</a>, written by TWW Team Member Henry Brinton, a Methodist pastor named Harley Camden sits down for coffee with a church member named Andy Stackhouse. Andy is upset about changes in the church, so he says to Harley, "I'm just concerned that our church -- and even more so, our denomination -- is getting away from the Bible.” Harley sips his coffee and wonders how to respond. Then he has an inspiration and says, "Andy, I know that you are a Civil War buff." "Absolutely." "Think back to the 1860s," says Harley. "Southern preachers took the Bible literally, and they defended slavery. They asked who could question the Word of God when it said, 'slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling.' That's from Paul's letter to the Ephesians." "Yes, I guess that made sense to them," says Andy, "at the time." "And in Paul's letter to Titus: 'tell slaves to be submissive to their masters and to give satisfaction in every respect.' You don't believe that, do you?" "No, I don't," says Andy. "Of course not." "The Christians who wanted to preserve slavery had the literal words of the Bible to back them up," says Harley. "They had all of the clearest scripture verses." The Bible said for slaves to be submissive. But the Holy Spirit came along and guided us into the truth. The search for truth is a process, one that is still going on. We should never become too certain about our correctness. When has the Holy Spirit led you to a new understanding of the words of the Bible? Be specific. 4. The biblical prophets were "truth-speakers," but so were later people of faith such as Martin Luther, who took a stand for the gospel, and William Wilberforce, who spoke against slavery. On what issues should the church be speaking today? In what areas can you be a truth-speaker? Responding to the News Look for an opportunity to have a respectful dialogue on an important topic with a relative, friend or fellow church member. Try to listen more than speak, and focus your attention on their personal search for truth. Share your own insights in a way that is not combative, and thank them for their honesty. Remember that the search for truth is a Spirit-led process, and that we are helped by building Christian unity as we move forward together. Prayer God of truth, we thank you for Christian brothers and sisters who show us how to disagree fruitfully and to remain united in love and respect, even in the middle of disagreements. Help us to be humble and to remember that no one has a monopoly on the truth -- except for your Son Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen. </div> Copyright 2025 Communication Resources <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user\_id=14323725&data=GPSpyWBsxr2ETzaOf\_o8IKq1TvkFwJ4OcwZkj7dr3GFoMDAwdTAwMNw72vjJQ9Zi0GuaQJwu5zoTwaqmZgF5KCviIeFidp3ZocBvlv7O6iw5BYNa86BLBpLV\_\_hdTSbZowcjF2EFO2\_Yrj\_zabsGqttjXPTTbATSFGu\_mlmkGoER6fPhQrlyPu9nzUQJKAY9mkoeK0kU-3blyqauzY07baaygExxs4lWBb5FKTn-WAYeA1Dc\_maP2lSx\_nzDwFOhFlYM1qNpjc0QxBiNT55LdhZKsNXWwC1bfli1LintdkZODzczsSgRmtJk9nLKmTGUfZnSd2-LVi6KblfWLgJ9kTt6BAXXU5TuM9aVkm1U8AGT1L1tRIR0AU6c\_xZRBkfDVkcNfGS7YXTBTDX-Ii5ryHeyz8G1ihl9\_v08jJxcRBRb0pqwIYW5RPveD2SqY9pW56AJKAfX-cHqdDz8EAoOa95CdzXL\_caD4MtlmhdJWTggrfgRTUdJu-OVqsIovkIMO8uMBZP7jDXR-e7ZWcfqXieDmU61p\_6Yxs9a8Dibcn\_OpcjNWe777VbY-3b-Og4tSLOuyKDcS7Fg8PWB6J5PQD3lFaDvrJ2ox38XdpDX0X4-9618dz6C1wiE0VCFIA0TErFXnW8J1S0n8Sm7La7V4F\_L9afHFCia">Unsubscribe From This List</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/wf/open?upn=u001.ri3TO7QGEXgsxcVdo6-2BoAGTuuWiDEfH5lVjP7AVQ-2Bcl7JaDKdeJ1ydQkXpTFAEqRD2SOncm40jgMuVls37ZLseTP-2Bc5kaLjFJf1Q3kw4FZdt1YoCkYWvLa1l-2BT-2F-2F8yIUiLbFHrmn64p2Xwmffzl3edR6Ty8TRKnThBIufHec6MYr94WZQxWVvMWvfNqNZdVSm2JpSP2sJuJ7h3Z8Ne0G7hV5XJITihqRHUQGZTsnCx04Vm-2BPcDyt3GMuC32acYzwqUkeq1dnmdB-2Bndr1YBezvDD4sH33NNjU7A52ZK-2BuEVBkF9XK5pn8dBpvGffIfKt8EF96-2BofKpU6scCzN7rfSRyvEg1DA4o9J9Q9v-2FrJUrIRQftHhsS-2F5LzPROMzWp-2FFFz0o75sHiGUEDKVktfGM2tU9plxcVlNM1bvYgTnfOV3-2BCS7SCEmFMFcKZxw652iYMClSLrLPoF25B3FkMDXHgrfkBbBhOU0k7TgPVXDjD9lHFM0Eg0lXRUfZWAP-2BtLE1J" style="height:1px !important;width:1px !important;border-width:0 !important;margin-top:0 !important;margin-bottom:0 !important;margin-right:0 !important;margin-left:0 !important;padding-top:0 !important;padding-bottom:0 !important;padding-right:0 !important;padding-left:0 !important;" width="1"/> </div>, The Wired Word for 09/07/2025, The Wired Word, 01k4awexs7gencnewa52zcxq3b.