This to Diane Carman, a Denver Post columnist after her column was printed here:
http://denverpost.com/carman/ci_2780132

Dear Diane,

Your column this morning points out a very clear distinction between Iliff's social gospel and the more "conservative" orthodoxy of Christianity. Iliff's brand, that of your subject Jim Luallen, lead him to assign primacy to what is called the "social gospel". The choice he made is not, however, choosing the path of peace over the path of war. One can be a "traditional" Christian and lament war, choosing instead to work for peace. But, Rev. Luallen's passion and commitment has led him straight out of the church into political activism, showing that political orthodoxy is his "true" religion. In following it, he has abandoned Jesus' teaching. Jesus taught that the greatest commandment, that of the "Shema" of Deuteronomy 6:4, needs to be of primary importance. In the political path he has learned at Iliff seminary, "liberal" political principles are held in higher esteem than mere "Christian" principles. It is more important to speak out against this hideous war than speak up for Christ. Iliff, which at last report had an Immam on its staff and has taken an interest in Witchcraft, did not give this young minister the foundation to stand firm in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Standing firmly in biblical Christianity, he could choose to be either liberal or conservative. But, to act from a Christian worldview he would have to put God first, not the activities of man.

So, your story is sad. The church needs both liberal and conservative Christians who are true disciples of Christ, not merely politicos spinning passionately in reaction to the issues of the day. The fact that Rev. Luellan saw his congregation as evil (i.e., conservative) is the tip off. Though presumably his congregation was composed of fellow believers in Christ, to his mind and heart, they were following the wrong gospel. Rev. Luellan has chosen to follow the Sith Lord, I'm afraid; not the Lord of the Universe. The "worldly" way he has chosen will lead to nihilism and despair. It always does.