One of the important issues with this topic is that of perceptions, particularly perceptions among those who Christ has commanded us to reach; "every tribe and kind" of people (Matthew 28). That is a consideration that is really outside the scope of the analysis Michael Peabody has done (which I much appreciate); it is about missionary strategy and not about defending the rights of believers (which for Peabody and myself means all kinds of religions, not just Adventists). What is the wise way of relating to these issues that avoids transmitting negative perceptions of the gospel and Christ's followers? How would the compassionate Christ relate to our contemporary situation?