I would like to know, or at least see what other Christians think the values of Christianity are. I'm talking about values such as collectivism, individuality, hedonism, rule of law, egalitarianism, freedom, etc. As I have not really been the strongest advocate of Christianity, or any religion really, these are the values I have placed with Christianity. But I am aware that I am not too knowledgeable with a lot of Christianity, so please let me know if you think that these values are inaccurate, misplaced, or if there are any other values that you think should also be placed with these. Please let me know what you think.
Christianity:
Conformity.
Homophobia.
Collectivism?
Rule of law?
Speciesim?
Conformity: Insofar as we have a Creed, a general conformity of faith would be expected. It would be very difficult to come, worship together, celebrate the Sacraments together and receive the Word if no one agreed on any of it. As far as "shunning" goes, in most denominations and traditions excommunication is generally regarded as a last ditch effort (though it has not always been used that way). That is, if there is someone in the community who is actively preaching against the community, causing division and in-fighting then, if every last effort has failed to solve the situation, excommunication is left to remove the person from receiving the Eucharist and therefore being an active part of the community. That, however, doesn't mean contact should be cut off.
As someone whose family became ostracized by our church when I was a child because a leader in the church manipulated the rest of the leadership and spread lies about my mother I don't say what I'm saying lightly. My mother was betrayed by people she trusted, she was humiliated and was being told she had to publicly shame herself by confessing to sins she never did all in order to satisfy an adulterous elder in our church.
That's why, when I talk about excommunication, I am very careful to point out that the purpose is not to humiliate, shame, shun or scorn a person, but for the Church to say, corporately, "Your divisiveness is bringing harm to this community, since we have been unable to resolve this issue you may not come and share together in our worship." Ultimately, the hope is that reconciliation and resolution in a healthy way can be achieved.
If it's used for manipulation, for humiliation, to hurt or in anyway damage a person than it is used wrongly and sinfully.
Homophobia: Yes, a lot of churches and Christians are. Not all. Many Christians and churches are quite loving and embracing of the homosexual members of our society. I'd probably say more, but there are certain rules on this site that I am not able to violate.
Collectivism, Rule of law and Speciesism: I am not entirely sure I understand what you're talking about.
What I would add, however:
Altruism
Hospitality
Generosity
Forgiveness
Self-Control
Christocentrism
Among others.
-CryptoLutheran
another would point out the division in the church. How can we be "collective" if we are divided?
