Rony Tan saga and what it means for Christians (Part II)

There are so many articles out there talking about Rony Tan that I feel almost guilty writing about it because it will most probably be plagiarism. But, there are still a couple more things to say:

i) Some might see Christianity as an arrogant religion and Christians as people who condemns non-believers. This is not true, most Christians accept non-believers and when we can we share the good news with care and respect. We don't shove it down your throat or force you to convert your parents, break up the family etc etc.

ii) Many Christians are flabbergasted and ashamed by Rony Tan's antics. Not all Christian churches preach in that manner. In fact, this is a good opportunity for the moderate Christians to voice out and argue that the Christian community is increasingly inward-looking and it is time for us to engage other religions and civil society in a frank, candid and mature dialogue. This will be a positive step for Singapore society and Christianity.

iii) It is time for NCCS to take a more pro-active role in regulating churches. If not in an official manner, then at least as an influence. With so many churches under its umbrella, it can set the tone and prevent such incidents in the future. It should also be a public face and voice to the majority moderate Christians in Singapore.

iv) We should work towards a community that self-regulates and not one that depends on, or is sub-consciously fearful, of the strong arm of the state. A strong enforcement agency and punitive measures would only restrict the growth of a intelligent, sensitive and respectful Christian community and retard the development of genuine inter-faith dialogue beyond the government orchestrated pleasantries.


http://kentridgecommon.com/?p=6275
Read this to understand Buddhism - not the Rony Tan show.

http://kentridgecommon.com/?p=6261
http://theonlinecitizen.com/2010/02/it-has-only-just-begun/
Read these articles to understand why we should forgive, and most importantly, learn our lesson, and thank those who forgive us so that we can really move towards a frank inter-faith dialogue. Also, why citizens shouldn't be too quick to call for arrest and punitive action.

http://theonlinecitizen.com/2010/02/take-a-stand-for-moderation-liberty-and-genuine-understanding/
Read this to understand a moderate take on the issue and why we should work towards a robust self-regulating community rather than one dependent on a strong hand of the government.

http://sdhammika.blogspot.com/2010/02/pastor-tan-fallout.html
Read this for the views of a esteemed monk and the state of inter-faith dialogue in Singapore.

http://singaporelifetimes.blogspot.com/2010/02/flogging-dead-horse.html
Read this for how cyberspace is sick of Rony Tan. ;p