A pluralist society does not recognize any one — or any religious truth at all. That’s why it is antithetical to all things theocratic. What holds a pluralist society together is the recognition and commitment — as well as constitutional and legal doctrines — that every person has the right to believe as they will; to change their minds; and to engage in spirited public debate about, well, whatever people want to talk about.  The curious position of the theocrat, is that he must navigate the pluralist maze, seeking to create conditions for a more theocratic society. Sometimes, this means making temporary alliances with other theocrats — even those whose theocratic vision is radically different! Sometimes such alliances are necessary to force governments to adopt policies against things like sexuality education and condom distribution to prevent AIDS. Fortunately, many theocrats can agree that withholding condoms from the general public is of the highest importance. Also, all good theocrats have the common goal of the demolition of the wall of separation between church and state. (One wall — thwarts them all!)

But there are also times when a good theocrat needs to be resolute; able to say exactly who’s who and what’s what. It is for just such a demonstration of this necessary prerequiste for theocratic leadership that Our Distinguished Panel of Judges now lifts up Al Mohler, President of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Dr. Mohler impressed everyone this week with his forthright statement that Mormons are not Christians (Mitt Romney not withstanding).

Much more.