Author Interview: Warren William Luce

In a church discussion group there is a leader who will steer the discussion along established doctrine lines. As a participant, if you have doubts, you must have the courage to question and then be prepared to explain why and have back up to support your thinking.

For example, the innately sinful nature of man that the church teaches is not what God and Jesus say about us. In Ezekiel 18, God says if even a wicked man turns from his sins, obeys me, and does what is right and good he will live because of his own goodness. Jesus said, “Go and sin no more“. He speaks of those who are pure in heart. As well as other scripture I quote in my book.

Education, in schools, at home and by the media, like religion, is rendered in accordance with established norms, directly leading to current state of affairs. We know that norms, rules and standards often change as time goes by dictated by different factors such as experience, need and open-minded thinkers. Educational thinking about politics, terrorism, religion, war, death and the other issues I raise in my book badly need the light of discussion and reform.

Rather than “preach” to their constituents, they need to ask for their thoughts about the issues. There seems to be plenty of that going on at the town hall meetings, and not to the liking of the politicians for it upsets the political status quo. The constituents are challenging their representatives, outright telling them to “stop lying.” The politicians need courage, as well, to be honest and do the right thing for the people and the country, not continue to follow the same old party dictates and political shenanigans that are so harmful.

Generally religion and secular matters should remain separate. But of course they don’t, with religion sometimes, especially in certain cultures, influencing if not dictating how we should live–eat, bath, dress, educate (prayer in school), gender relationships and even killing. Our constitution requires a separation of church and state. Basically meaning that the government cannot dictate religion to the people or prevent people form embracing whatever religion they choose. That’s good. But it doesn’t prevent the politicians, who make the laws and regulations, from letting their religious persuasions affect their decisions in those matters, and they do. There are certain aspects of religion, like scriptural instructions, that are applicable to all phases of living, including government. Like love your neighbor as yourself, do unto others as you would have them do unto you, forgive, feed the hungry and do not kill.

Physical education is not only participating in physical activities in a school gymnasium, it involves learning about good health, such as proper nutrition versus junk food and the serious danger of smoking and other drug use. Given the poor condition of our youth–obesity, suffering from diseases, and prevalence of drug use–we are obviously doing a poor job of it. The condition of our youth is a major factor in defining our future. Our schools are not devoting enough time to physical education; some schools even considering doing away with it, usually because of a lack of funding. We spend or waste vast amounts of money on unjust war, excessive defense measures, unnecessary health care, tax exemptions, space exploration, sports in schools (coach salaries), entertainment and CEOs, but won’t properly fund proper education for our children. Tragic, outrageous. Physical education should be a core subject.

I don’t see any one person out there who could bring about the needed changes in our government. Congress could do it if they would eschew the damn politics, but that isn’t likely. It’s really up to us, the people. If we can summon the will and courage to carry out the actions recommended in Let’s Make Our World Better, we can change our government and the world, making our lives richer and the children‘s future brighter.

All the book reviews and individual comments have been positive. Book reviews giving five star or exceptional merit recommendations for book to be read. Too soon to tell for general public reaction. I’m confident it will be mostly positive, however, I know I am going to be attacked for some of my positions on the issues.

None, so far. But that will undoubtedly change.

I do not consider myself a “Christian,” in that, meaning embracing the “Christian” faith. I am a strong believer in Jesus Christ’s teachings which are not the same as the Christian Church’s. For anyone, Christian or otherwise, to grow and learn–keep an open mind, question, continue to search for knowledge and never claiming that you have the absolute truth.

Generally, same as for Christians. This is not a book with ideas only for the Christians or Americans. It is for all people.