Thank you to everyone who responded to my confession with support and/or advice.
@Fink That certainly is my goal...and I do believe that asking them to support their extra-biblical teachings is the way to go. I just have to be considerably less aggressive in my approach.
@Sparky Thank you for your encouragement. And hopefully Jon Kabat-Zinn's quote applies in yours truly's case.
@ Ding Thanks....definitely in this case the good cop was more effective than the bad cop today.
@ Fall Guy Exactly. I was clearly trying to confront and force them to defend their extra-biblical teachings...which proved totally fruitless. A learning experience for me. Seems like I have that snarling brain dog as well.
@ Diogenesister "I
find the most effective method is to drop one, or at most two,
thoughts/questions/statements of fact. That way they don't get
overwhelmed & can remember what you've said later on when they
calm down."
Very good point Gal; one I will aim to follow.
@NewSheep You are absolutely right about no protection needed. My son is on fire and out to win souls to Christ.
@ Ashley Yes, empathy is exactly what was missing on my part today
@ Terry Thanks for your honesty and vulnerability. You are absolutely right.