When applause replaces discernment

There is something about the recent exchanges among some prominent Ghanaian religious leaders that deserves more attention than it is receiving. The focus has largely been on what one pastor said about other prophets, who has responded, who has taken offence and who has insulted whom. But I believe we are overlooking an equally important part of the story: the people sitting in the congregations, listening, clapping, cheering and sometimes appearing visibly delighted as their pastors attack fellow ministers from the pulpit.