Letter: Student preacher's choice of topic not irresponsible

Using scripture to argue one's political opinions is the most irresponsible homiletical practice possible. Qualified religious experts pejoratively refer to it as eisogesis, otherwise known as isolating specific scripture passages only for the purpose of grinding one's ax. Thanks be to God that the student preacher in Duke Chapel on Feb. 16, David Allen, did not do this. Criticized by Nathan Carleton in his column, "Sermon Botched," for failing to "use scripture to argue his political opinions," Allen instead used the assigned lectionary readings for the sixth Sunday after Epiphany to help inform the church of how it might respond to the events currently shaping our world, including racism, classism and war. Any preacher worth his or her salt can do no less.