I paid special attention to the words, "He's (Tiger) said to be a Buddhist; I don't think that faith offers the kind of forgiveness and redemption that is offered by the Christian faith. So my message to to Tiger would be, 'Tiger, turn to the Christian faith, and you can make a total recovery and be a great example to the world." Nonetheless, there was a huge reaction from the viewing public, and Hume was given a chance to clarify his statement on the O'Reilly Factor. Well, see for yourself.
Hume is obviously a Christian, and I am not aiming to prove any one religion as more credible than another. But there are a few issues that have been plaguing my mind since I first heard Hume's words. First of all, despite the fact that Tiger is a celebrity and his very private matters of late have become very public, his issues are between him and his wife. Furthermore, whatever Tiger Woods believes is a private matter; it is between him and his God. Personal relationship with God means personal relationship. If Tiger is in fact a Buddhist, it surely is none of Hume's or anyone else's business. As a matter of fact, whatever his religion, it's a choice he has made and is obviously comfortable with it.
On what basis can Hume authoritatively suggest that Christianity would serve Woods better than Buddhism would? Does Hume KNOW anything at all about Buddhism? I doubt it; he himself said, "I don't THINK that faith offers the kind of forgiveness and redemption that is offered by the Christian faith." In fact, does Hume know anything about Islam, Judaism, or Hinduism for starters? Again, I doubt it. The basis on which he advised Woods was solely his personal experience as a Christian. Because of HIS private religious experience, he sees it fit to tell another man to convert to HIS religion? That is above and beyond selfish and arrogant.
I'd like to know how Hume would feel if someone were to tell him that the only way he could overcome a humiliating public embarrassment involving a secret indiscretion would be to change his religion from Christianity to Judaism, or Buddhism, or Islam. I'm guessing that he would not like it. When Hume faced a personal tragedy in 1998, he turned even deeper to Christianity. It worked for him and it took him through a very rough period. Great.
However, because this "personal relationship" with the Christian God has given you the spiritual and religious guidance you need; because you are a sold out to your Christian faith; do not assume that the rest of the world need follow. Hume's charge to Tiger basically said, "Your religion is wrong and mine is right." Hume, you do not have the authority to make a such a claim. Furthermore, you do not know Tiger Woods personally, nor do you know what he is enduring. All you should ask is that God offer him strength to survive this difficult period in his life.
So here's some advice for you Hume. Read Matthew 7:3. "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?"
One last question to Hume ... How Dare You?
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