Terry Jones - No Longer Invited

In an amazing twist, the English Defence League have shelved their plans for Terry Jones to speak at an event early next year because of his 'critical views on homosexuality and race".

Although a welcome move, I find this all a bit surprising. More surprising still is the EDL claim that Jones had 'Approached them several times, wanting to speak at an event." Makes you think that the man might be more interested in personal fame (notoriety?) than the Gospel, doesn't it?

A EDL member, Guramit Singh told BBC Radio Derby, "A few of us have been debating the question of whether we bring him or not and after doing some research and seeing what his personal opinions are on racism and homosexuality, we are not allowing him to speak at our demonstration. He is not the right candidate for us.

Although the English Defence League are sincere to what he has to say about Islam, we do not agree with some of his manifesto such as some of his issues with homosexuality and some of his issues with race. The EDL is anti-homophobic and we are a non-racism organisation."

Jones still says he's coming to the UK and I assume that wherever he goes and wherever he gets to speak will be quite closely monitored. And as much as I welcome the words of the EDL, the actions still need to be watched with regard to this man and the membership generally.

None of us want a two-tier society. The rules apply to all equally and without hindrance or favour, this is the Christian way of life - of course it's not shared by many of the secularists who seek to have one society on their terms, excluding whatever they deem to be unacceptable.

I am happy for people to hold those views, or any other views. Faith groups are not a threat for they have (generally) been there a long time and they (and their members) work alongside other faiths in peace and with a mutual respect. Where this doesn't happen is where the seeds of societal damage lie - not in trying to abolish God. So many of the secularists are merely examples of 'learned ignorance' and the 'closed minds' they claim to see in Christians (and others). Those who disagree with us are not always wrong - a good premise to start with I reckon.

Pax

ps. For the record, I have written to Pastor Jones. I haven't (perhaps unsurprisingly) received any response - I won't hold my breath!