Barry's BlogWednesday, November 12 2008 Irish Brethren: Bono and C.S. Lewis on Christ, Karma and Grace...
Paul David Hewson, better known by his stage name, Bono, is as many of us know, the main vocalist and lyricist for the Irish rock band, U2. In addition to the worldwide acclaim the band has garnered over the years, Bono is also well known for his collaborative efforts with numerous artists, as well as his humanitarian efforts in Africa. What some people may not realize, though, is his vibrant Christian faith, and his affection for the writings of another Irishman, the Oxford don C.S. Lewis. It is clear that Lewis has greatly impacted Bono's theological worldview. Bruce Edwards, in a recent post on his website, cslewisblog.com, suggests that we hear the echo of Lewis' influence ih Bono's idea of grace, in distinguishing it from karma, as well as the trilemma argument that Lewis popularized concerning the identity of this Galilean who claimed to be God Incarnate. From the book, Bono in Conversation, listen to Bono's words as he contrasts "karma" from the Biblical idea of "grace."
(The concept of grace) is a "mind blowing concept...that keeps me on my knees." At the center of all religions (Bono tells his skeptical interviewer) is the idea of Karma. You know, what you put out comes back to you: an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, or in physics-in physical laws-every action is met by an equal or an opposite one." Amazing clarity of insight, wouldn't you say? And from a famous rock star musician and lyricist, no less, but one who eyes to see... Post your comments:FinishingWell is not responsible for the content of these Comments
Wed,Nov 19 2008 09:03:42 AM "Jeff, the same kind of "life style" issues follow Christians everywhere, as it did Lewis in his time. His coarser language among friends but also in public, his affection for beer, and his addiction to tobacco would presumably disqualify him from a lot of "Christian" circles. Bono is Bono--an interesting convert by the Hound of Heaven, and one whose witness to Christ may have a wider reach than our narrower and narrowing evangelical circles. We speak to ourselves so often, and we convince ourselves that it is outreach just to justify the time wasted. I appreciate your humility and your honesty and would just ask that your forbearance increase. I'd put more stock in Bono's "true faith" than many a "public" pastor--some of whose "loose ends" eventually are found out. –Bruce Fri,Nov 14 2008 08:08:42 AM "I have always wondered about Bono and how deep his faith really is. You know, things kind of swirled around U-2 from the very beginning about their having a spiritual focus and spiritual life, with messages that were thematically transcendent in their songwriting and the like. With that background, they are living totally public lives, with a lot of focus and attention to everything they do. So, then you see Bono slurping a Heineken and singing about how he can't live without this woman, and then he drops the F-bomb on a major awards show and I am thinking, "Glad everyone doesn't see my life with the same focus!" If they did, they would probably ask, 'Jeff Pittman is a Christian?!?.......' –Jeff |
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Wed,Nov 19 2008 11:29:29 AM
"Bruce,
Great comments. I think lifestyle issues, which always center around moderation, are old hat for most outside evangelical circles. They could really care less if you have a beer, or smoke a cigar, or whatever. However, I do think they know when a person has lost control and I personally believe that I do have a godly admonition to not be in excess, in all things, so as to protect the reputation of the Son. So, I have to walk that line - I enjoy an ice cold Warsteiner, in the middle of July, as much as anyone, but I know when I have had too many and those around me know it too! That is my responsibility to Father. I don't want to embarass Him. It is the sum of a man's life that matters - his care and love for people, his sacrifice for others, his commitment to serving God's Kingdom. I agree that Bono is having an effect that is extraordinary because he has been given a highly visible platform. Let's hope he continues to be a good steward of it and that Father is honored by him. As you say, there are plenty of guys that look great that have blown it and could have benefited by not being so highly critical of others.
"
–Jeff