What's un-Christian about the Christian right - Cover Story

Washington Monthly, Dec, 1995 by Jonathan Rowe

With the holy season upon us, then, I propose a simple exercise. Put a copy of I Corinthians 13 by your radio or television. Rate the politicians--Christian Right and otherwise--according to how they meet Paul's standard. Do they suffereth long? Are they kind? Or do they vaunt themselves? Do they behave in a seemly manner? Or do they get provoked easily, think evil of others and rejoice in iniquity?

Put the politicians to Paul's test--something the Christian Coalition is strangely reluctant to do. And then commend the deserving. They are there, and they don't hear from us enough. As for the rest, don't wait for them to commission a poll. Write a short letter: Tell them, respectfully, that we all expect better.

Jonathan Rowe is a contributing editor of The Washington Monthly. Research assistance provided by Renee M. Swanson.