Is it just me, or does it appear that some folks don't understand the idea of an "influence" being but one factor of many in regards to the formation of points of view? Or that when people are "influenced" by the events that occur during their formative years, the effect of the influences can vary from individual to individual? Or that the fact that external social influences have different effects on different people does not negate the existence of those influences?
George,
Your words remind me of the observation that the truth about stereotypes is that they are often true, but not invariably true; and that what makes a man a bigot is believing they are invariably true, while what makes a man wise is always remembering that there are exceptions to nearly every rule.
This distinction has practical guidance. I have asserted that we have to apply our witness to individuals. This is in the day to day decisions of the church, but is maybe easier to see in the pulpit. Tomorrow I will have a 14 year old young girl just baptized, who has only just come to know who Jesus is, maybe an 86 year old former Lutheran Pastor, some Methodist visitors, a couple ex-ELCA'ers, a 50 year old southern charismatic, some 70 year old Gospel music loving types, etc. etc. Maybe there is a stereotype to the congregation. But mostly they are old Lutherans in their 70's. How do I preach?!! How would I if they were all "Baby Boomers?"
The Gospel is the same for every one of them. All I can do is proclaim that Gospel using the text for the day. I don't know how to tailor it for such a diverse group even if I should. The temptation could be to target the 70 year olds, looking for some stereotypical characteristic of that group.While there is a personality to the congregation, sometimes influenced by generational factors. I just stereotype them all as 100% sinners and 100% saints, just like me.
BUT I do indeed seek to preach to indiiviiduals. I cannot use the word "propitiation," with that 14 year old. I have serious hermeneutic issues that have to be addressed with the ex-ELCA'ers. We have charismatic questions with the 50 year old's family etc. etc. Will the Methodists hear something different in the Pharisee sections? Lots of stereotypes. Any stereotype here could bring damage to faith, and not proclaim the Gospel. I have to throw away completely such generalizations beyond all sinners, all saints, the human stereotype.
So I do focus on the sheep, one at a time. I have to, even when speaking to the entire flock all at once. Stereotypes here are deadly to specific souls. One message, but a use of word changed for that little lamb, and change of phrase for the three ladies in the back, an emphasis for the 50 year old, etc. etc.
I assert we have to throw away the stereotypes, beyond concern for the personality of the congregation. We deal with that as with any group. Find the leaders in spirit, deal with that individually, and the group spirit changes.
One sheep at a time. There is little good to be gained from compartmentalizing the Boomers over here, and the Young Folk over there. Its not a question of insult, but a case of good pastoral practice.
TV
