Ron Goodwin cherry picked the Bible in his letter (The Facts on Jesus' Birth - 12/24/2009). He cites several passages to make his point but ignores others in the same books of the Bible that he uses which contradict him. When he cites "facts" he is either misguided or intentionally deceiving those who are not knowledgable of the words in the Bible. For instance, Goodwin cites Matthew 2:1-8 as "factually" debunking the story of the Magi, stating that they were sent by Herrod. He convieniently neglects the detail that the Magi were already enroute to Bethlehem. Herrod had heard about the birth of a savior and hoped that these men would find Jesus as they planned. He instructed them to return afterward and report on the whereabouts of the child. It was Herrod's intention to use the information to find and kill Jesus. Scripture states that they bypassed Herrod and returned to their country by a different route. (Matthew 2:9-12). When Herrod realized that the Magi were not returning to him, he was furious.
Mr. Goodwin complains of Christmas songs as if they were some form of Christian propaganda program. They are simply traditional songs and stories. Is Mr. Goodwin the champion of "truth" in all things? Is George Washington any less significant because Parson Mason Weems told moral tales about Washington's youth. While many Americans may believe the cherry tree story because of Weems' tales, is there any reason to doubt Washington as a historical figure? If so, then much of the history of this country could be called into question because of songs or stories that are artistic interpretations of the facts. Christmas songs are not claimed by Christians as the factual account of Jesus' life. Christians who read and study the Bible know the difference between the scriptures and songs. Mr. Goodwin's pursuit of truth belies his apparent disdain for Christ and Christians in general.

Posted by: dchapman

December 26, 2009 at 12:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )