On that we are totally agreed.
And this declaration is a good step in laying out those principles.
I agree with a large proportion of the words. I wanted to be able to sign it. But I can't, for reasons I've already stated, and others I haven't had time to think through and lay out yet.
Have a good day.
First, "the only ones to profit from it"? Anyone who appreciates a clear statement of Christian principles. I profit from it. So will many.
Second, "gross hypocrisy"? If hypocrites weren't allowed to talk, Free Republic would be a chamber of silence.
And so would every church and every assembly of the descendants of Adam.
If you want to call individuals out by name and expose the disaprity between their words and their actions, fine. But don't disqualify a good statement because it's being spoken by people who have disappointed us: flawed human beings.
Third, "the document contains subtle language which leaves wiggle room"? As I said before, cite.
Fourth, "the document doesn’t make any explicit demand for real action"? Most of the signers are clergy, are they not? Clergy are supposed to explicate principles, political activists to devise and promote policy. Isn't that the way it's supposed to be? So writing up the policies or programs is our job. Let's get busy.
".. the Mark DeMoss/Mitt Romney list of gullible Christians"? Ad hominem. A kind of argument I rarely find persuasive.
I regard you as a valuable ally, EV, and would like to see effective action to promote these principles in action. I think this manifesto merits support.