The Honest
Preacher
Once upon a time, there was a Preacher so honest that he
preached:
“This scripture is a work of fiction. All persons, places
and events described in this revelation are imaginary; any resemblance to real
persons, places or events is purely coincidental. Doubt this credo!”
“Don’t believe just because you saw a picture, or read a
book, or heard a song. Don’t believe anything just because it’s comforting or
flattering or convenient or exciting. Nor should you believe because someone
preaches vehemently. Preachment is not proof, and vehemence is not evidence! Believe
only what you have tested out yourself, and found to be good, both for yourself
and for others.”
“I believe in reality. I believe that things are what they
are, and they are not what they are not. I believe that no is not yes, and lies
are not truth, and war is not peace, and slavery is not freedom. I believe that
rivers run downhill, and that you can’t unscramble an egg. I believe that there
is no benevolent tyrant, and no sure bet, and no free lunch.”
“I believe that two plus two is four. Not five, not even if
you bribe me; nor three, not even if you threaten me. It’s four, no more, no
less.”
The congregation cheered at the Preacher’s honesty; and
they filled his collection plate; and they made his preachment their credo.
And
if you believe that, then you will believe anything.
Moral: May the
believer beware.
Comment: Absurd!
When has preaching doubt ever made money?
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