“What if the moment we dig our heals in is actually the signal that we’re not quite convinced of our own argument?” This was particularly convicting for me given the context. I have a nasty habit of digging in my heals, especially when it comes to debating Calvinists. I get really worked up, really hostile, and really defensive because deep down, I am terrified that folks like Piper are right–that God will always be angry with me, that God derives glory from our suffering and pain, that He creates disposable people who he never intends to love, and that maybe I am one of those disposable people myself.

Like Piper, I will go to great lengths to make my point, saying ridiculous things like “I'd rather be an atheist than a Calvinist” and other such nonsense.

Fantastic post, Jonathan! Thanks again for being one of the only bloggers to attempt to make tornadogate a “teachable moment.”

“What if the moment we dig our heals in is actually the signal that we’re not quite convinced of our own argument?” This was particularly convicting for me given the context. I have a nasty habit of digging in my heals, especially when it comes to debating Calvinists. I get really worked up, really hostile, and really defensive because deep down, I am terrified that folks like Piper are right–that God will always be angry with me, that God derives glory from our suffering and pain, that He creates disposable people who he never intends to love, and that maybe I am one of those disposable people myself.

Like Piper, I will go to great lengths to make my point, saying ridiculous things like “I'd rather be an atheist than a Calvinist” and other such nonsense.

Fantastic post, Jonathan! Thanks again for being one of the only bloggers to attempt to make tornadogate a “teachable moment.”