A few days ago, in response to a post about “dirty words,” I left a comment cocerning how the Apostle Paul used the equivalent of the word, “shit” in Philippians 3:8:
“I consider everything else shit by comparison to knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (my translation).
You can read the original post and my comment here, but I thought a full post (and a story) might be warranted.
Paul used dirty words intentionally, provocatively, and prophetically.
Paul said “shit” intentionally. He did not accidentally write “shit” and then think, “Oh shit, this is going to be in the Bible. I better clean it up.” [Of course, it would have been too late, anyway . . . he couldn't exactly run to the Office Depot for another papyrus scroll.] He said “shit” because he wanted to say “shit.”
Paul said “shit” provocatively. Even though I think he probably used this kind of language in everyday conversations (. . . it just seems to come pretty naturally for him), Paul does so in Philippians 3:8 to make a point. He is trying to provoke a response. Too bad the translators cleaned it up . . . “garbage,” “refuse,” or even, “dung” do not have the same effect. They don’t provoke.
Paul said “shit” prophetically. Speaking prophetically includes intentionality and provocation, but has the additional goal of evoking a spiritual response. As a prophet, Paul wanted to evoke in people the idea that knowing Christ is more important than anything else in life! [He's also teaching them that getting their panties in a wad about language misses the point altogether.]
Now the story. (It’s my favorite Tony Campolo story.) While preaching in a large church in Houston, Tony is quoted to say,
“I have three things I’d like to say today. First, while you were sleeping last night, 30,000 kids died of starvation or diseases related to malnutrition. Second, most of you don’t give a shit. What’s worse is that you’re more upset with the fact that I said shit than the fact that 30,000 kids died last night.”
I would say that Tony’s comments meet the same qualifications as Paul’s . . . they are intentional, provocative, and prophetic.
May 27th, 2008 - 9:00 pm
Are you kidding me? A follower of Christ can actually be intentionally provocative? Who would have thought? I think that is what people need to see out of us. They need to see a little intentional provocation.
May 28th, 2008 - 12:31 pm
Rob Bell, in commenting on the purpose of preaching, said something to the effect that the pulpit is the one place where it should be about “exploring the edges.” (If I can locate the exact quote, I’ll post it later.) I would add, “exploding the safe areas—the status quo.” Any honest follower of his would have to conclude that provocation is one of the ways of Jesus. So . . . here’s to provocation!