Cytocop, I agree that we have some differences on the term “Christian values.” I believe this term has been co-opted by the politicians to mean anything that they are for and their opponent is against. Pro-life , pro-choice, gay rights (per the Golden Rule), anti-gay (per biblical proscriptions against sodomy), etc. etc. etc.

Most of the things I used to consider “Christian Values” would be the desire to imitate Christ, and adhere to universal values that C.S. Lewis calls the “universal good.” That said, I believe the term “Christian Values” has become more divisive than helpful in almost any context because of the abuse of the term in political campaign ads and the sensational use in the media. Whenever I hear it I shudder.

I, for one, have quit using the term and whenever I hear it (and have the opportunity) I ask the speaker to clarify. It demonstrates much more moral and intellectual integrity to say what you mean, rather than hiding behind a nebulous and divisive term.

Though my brother and I were raised in the same home by the same two parents, our values couldn’t be farther apart. Liahona and Suzanne, my conservative brother would argue with you about your definition of Christian values. To him, Christian doctrine and bringing others to Christ ranks higher than living the “golden rule” for the precise reason that the golden rule could reflect anyone’s values, whether they were Christian, something else, or atheist.

We were raised in what would now be described as a liberal mainstream Protestant denomination. To my parents, practicing the golden rule was much more important than doctrine. They taught us to be grateful, hard-working, honest and sincere, respectful of others, kind and charitable. But in today’s Protestant churches, to not teach Christian doctrine as a value seems almost radical and a departure from strict Christian teaching.

Incidentally, Jesus’ quote is from Leviticus (3rd book of Jewish Torah): “Love thy neighbor as thyself” and from Deuteronomy (5th book of Jewish Torah): “Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.” This scripture is part of the Shema, the statement Jews are to recite at least two times daily.

Jesus: “Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.”
Rabbi Hillel: “Do not do unto others what is hateful to you.”
Muhammad: “You are not a believer until you love for your neighbor what you love for yourself.”