Part 284. 0n labels and jargon

I have an aversion to theological jargon and labels.  Keep it simple is my motto: no jargon, no labels. Whilst some may consider my theological opinions to be 'liberal', others might prefer the label 'progressive', or even 'deconstructivist'. Labels come with attendant baggage.  The danger is that should a label be used the attendant baggage is attributed to you. Guilt by association. So, I do not use a label, I leave it to others to draw their own conclusions.

In any discipline jargon should be the preserve of practitioners and academics. Jargon is a useful shorthand for discussion, debate, and argument amongst peers. But there is no need to encumber others with jargon.  In theology words such as exegesis, hermeneutics, orthodoxy, orthopraxy, orthopathy, apostasy, salvation, sanctification, justification, sin, redemption, grace et al, can be barriers to understanding.  Furthermore, jargon complicates religion making individuals susceptible to gatekeepers controlling dissemination of information.

My plea is: keep it simple, eschew labels and jargon

So, what are my beliefs? A summary of key points:

* the bible is of human origin. It is not free of errors, nor is it inspired by God. It is a collection of human understanding.

* God is not a person in heaven, but a concept, love.

* Jesus was a real person who taught that we should love all, particularly the poor and marginalised. 

* Following Jesus requires us to seek social justice for the poor and marginalised.

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