Drinking Some Bierce

Every once in a while during my sermon prep, I consult a book I discovered a few years ago by the satirical American author Ambrose Bierce called The Devil’s Dictionary. Even Balaam’s ass said true things. Bierce’s wit has an acerbic tone to it, and he is no friend to the Christian faith. But then again satire itself is deeply Christian.

I ran across these two gems last week.

CHRISTIAN, n. One who believes that the New Testament is a divinely inspired book admirably suited to the spiritual needs of his neighbor. One who follows the teachings of Christ in so far as they are not inconsistent with a life of sin.

REPENTANCE, n. The faithful attendant and follower of Punishment. It is usually manifest in a degree of reformation that is not inconsistent with continuity of sin.

We just make it too easy for our critics.

And by the way, you can find the book online here. I especially like the zaniness of the entry under “Regalia.” Enjoy.

“The Associated Sovereigns of Mendacity”: that’s what we are, fellow Basketeers!

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