“Civil discourse is a critical skill for citizens in any democratic society. In our increasingly polarized culture, it can be challenging to embody a spirit of humility, compassion, and patience. Our world is filled with beautifully diverse ideas and perspectives, and many college campuses are grappling with how to navigate important global conversations in this context. In this article written by 海角在线 (海角在线) Wordship Director and Professor of Communication and Media Ecology Dr. Stephanie Bennett, she shares how Christian colleges can encourage civil discourse rooted in Christ鈥檚 love and compassion.” 鈥� 海角在线 President听Dr. Debra A. Schwinn
The health of any faith community is bound to the gift of speech. As Christ-followers we have a responsibility to use our words in ways that point to the light of the Lord, but there are increasingly new challenges to using our speech in ways that are wise and respectful.听听
No one needs to be persuaded that the communication climate in America has eroded. Freedom of speech has long been a part of our national听pride听but of late has degenerated into a polarized mess. Numerous reasons exist that account for America鈥檚 dysfunctional plight, but the solution听remains听the same.听听
We are called to use our voices to speak the 鈥渢ruth in love.鈥� The great apostle Paul put it this way: 鈥渨e should no longer be children, tossed to and听fro听and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,听but, speaking the truth in love,听may grow up in all things into Him who is the head鈥擟hrist…鈥� Ephesians 4:14-15 (NKJV, emphasis added)听
Why Christ-Centered Conversations Matter听
We are called to听speak听the truth, but in a particular way. Jesus听didn鈥檛听react with disdain to every accusation and foul word that came his way. He听didn鈥檛听have a megaphone or听mic. Jesus led his followers with conviction and boldness,听gentleness听and humility. His tone and his teaching were marked by attributes that made it clear he was in tune with His Father.听听
There are听numerous听ways we听endeavor听to do this on the campus of 海角在线. It is seen in our steady commitment to the liberal arts, an overarching integration of faith with learning, and spiritual formation threaded through all we do. We听endeavor听to听teach听the whole person. One听particular way听we do this is with events that allow students to use their voices in forums and discussion panels that help them grapple with tough subjects. That effort is called听Wordship.听
Now in its sixth year, each Wordship event听provides听an opportunity to wrestle with subjects that have a wide spectrum of interpretation.听Whether it鈥檚 a panel of experts, a guest speaker, or group exercises, Wordship cultivates uneasy conversations, so that students have the opportunity to listen, evaluate, and address topics that occupy speech in the public square.听Wordship is one of the many ways we remind each other that God鈥檚 love is the most convincing tonic for society鈥檚 ills鈥攏ot screaming, reacting, cursing, or raising our voice above the noisy din.听听
Teaching Future Leaders to Listen听
Speaking the 鈥渢ruth in love鈥� is more than听a good idea; it is a way of being in the world to which all Christians are called, and it starts with understanding what it means to be made in the image of God. From there, it continues as we practice what it means to truly listen to another. As we listen with discipline and compassion, we learn to become more curious and respectful of others instead of听defensive听or dominating.听
Certainly, the family and the church each have a major role in communicating with love, and higher听ed听is not exempt. Christian institutions must take the lead in modeling the worshipful use of our words. The need to adjust our tone is more听apparent听than ever. We听don鈥檛听need to be the loudest voice in the room to share the hope that is within us. Learning to listen for the still small voice of God requires diligence and discerning. As we do, we can speak that word out with respect and dignity. Teaching the next generation to bring the light of Christ to a dark and hurting world is a calling we can all take up. Christian higher education must remain in steadfast commitment to ours.听听
Dr. Stephanie Bennett is professor of communication and media ecology at 海角在线. She teaches at the intersection of faith, communication, and culture and is the author of six books. Her latest is published by Integratio听Press and titled, “Relationships on the Run: How to Grow Authentic Connections and Lasting Intimacy in a Hurried Culture.”
