Christians and Preferred Pronouns: A Dialogue (with Tim Muehlhoff)
Jul 23, 2024
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Communications professor Tim Muehlhoff and Sean discuss Christians using preferred pronouns. They explore common ground and disagreements on LGBTQ conversations, navigating tough Christian dialogues, disputable church issues like same-sex marriage, gender identity, and cultural sensitivity in biblical contexts. The dialogue focuses on building trust, respect, and understanding in discussing sensitive topics.
Respect preferred pronouns for communication flexibility and relational harmony.
Navigate divisive topics with grace and understanding through respectful dialogue.
Balance communication principles and personal beliefs to foster meaningful conversations.
Deep dives
The Importance of Effective Communication and Dialogue Across Worldview Differences
In a conversation between two colleagues at Biola University, the importance of effective communication and dialogue across worldview differences is emphasized. They discuss the significance of respectful conversation even when dealing with divisive topics within the church. The focus is on modeling how to disagree well, provide clarity, and promote grace in discussions where differing opinions are prevalent.
Respecting Preferred Pronouns as a Matter of Communication Flexibility
The conversation delves into the topic of using preferred pronouns and highlights the idea of respecting an individual's choice of pronouns as a matter of communication flexibility. The freedom to use preferred pronouns is presented as a way to maintain communication and initiate conversations, with a focus on linguistic sensitivity and the potential impact on relational dynamics.
Navigating Conversations with Sensitivity and Empathy
The discussion explores the challenges and considerations involved in navigating conversations with sensitivity and empathy. The speakers acknowledge the complexity of communicating effectively, especially in situations where personal beliefs and cultural perspectives may differ. They emphasize the importance of understanding diverse viewpoints while maintaining respectful dialogue.
Balancing Communication Principles with Personal Convictions
The speakers reflect on balancing communication principles with personal convictions when engaging in dialogue. They highlight the need to establish trust, mutual respect, and a willingness to listen and learn from each other. The emphasis is on creating a communication climate that fosters meaningful conversations despite differing opinions.
Applying Biblical Principles to Contemporary Communication Challenges
The conversation draws parallels between biblical principles and contemporary communication challenges. Insights from Acts 16 and 1 Corinthians 9 are discussed as examples of adapting communication strategies while remaining true to core beliefs. The speakers highlight the importance of charting a course that aligns with biblical teachings while engaging in dialogue with cultural sensitivity and empathy.
Should Christians use preferred pronouns? What is at stake in this question? How can Christians navigate relationships when people want them to use preferred pronouns? In this longer-than-usual podcast, Sean and Biola communications professor Tim Muehlhoff discuss these questions and more. In co-writing their book End the Stalemate, Sean and Tim realized they have much in common, but also some practical and biblical differences about how and when to use (and not use) preferred pronouns. They aim to model a healthy dialogue about a contentious issue.
Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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