I have stumbled onto a very interesting blog called Experimental Theology. The author is a Christian who also happens to be a psychologist, and his research and essays focus on the psychology of behavior in the context of religion. It is interesting reading. This column caught my eye in particular.
It is about about the way some Christians differ widely in what they say and what they do. They often talk about working on their relationship with Jesus, but in doing so, they ignore acting as Jesus would have done.
The author is Dr. Richard Beck, and his comments remind me of a post i made earlier this year that linked to another story about church folk refusing to tip. This is not a commentary about all Christians; i’m sure there are those that tip well. But there is no denying the very widespread perception among waitstaff across the country that the Sunday crowd, ie the church crowd, tips the worst.
Anecdotally, I admit to leaving extra money on the table a time or two when my parents treated us for dinner when they were visiting us. Because i had seen the check and didn’t think 10% was enough for a waitress that worked her butt off.
I love this writer, though, and am subscribed to his RSS feed. The things he analyzes are fascinating. Nathan, if you’re reading, i think you would really resonate with his writing and his message.
Read the full article.
October 29th, 2009 10:10 pm
Beck said, “Many churches are jerk factories.” Lol! I cracked up, laughting
my head off when I read this. Thanks for the referral to the website.
November 19th, 2009 11:59 am
wow. That was an amazing article as I generally don’t ‘see’ this side of Christian view and behavior. I probably will blog about this and link to your post… You provide such great insight to these subject matters!!