I’ve been saying for some time, that I’m bothered by much of the rhetoric I’m hearing. I’m concerned with the language some of my friends, and people I agree with theologically, use when discussing issues and speaking about those with whom they disagree. I understand the need to speak plainly, and at times, forcefully but not condemningly with such glee. Admittedly there is a fine line. When talking about issues involving doctrinal compromise or the outright denial of biblical truth, I understand the temptation to employ a “a take no prisoners” attitude, but is that wise? Is that the best course of action? Yes, our Lord used very strong language with the Pharisees and the apostle Paul pulled no punches with the Judaizers. There is a place for righteous indignation – just make sure it is righteous! Make sure it is a godly anger motivated by love for God and truth, not a perceived personal afront. I guess, what I’m getting at is that I would like to see some genuine grief over sin and unrighteousness. A heart burdened for the lostness of the culture and the people deceived by the enemy of their soul. I’m thinking the words of condemnation might be more powerful if spoke through tears. That a demonstration of brokenness over the wickedness of the culture might get farther than anger or a fit of rage.
No, I’m not saying there should not be passion. I’m not suggesting that we must always speak in a whisper or softly so as not to offend. The gospel is offensive! Biblical truth is offensive to the ungodly. The gospel says, “You are a hell-bound, hell-deserving sinner and you have no hope apart from Christ.” The response of the average person to such news is not, “Oh, wow, thank you for that.” Rather it is, “Who are you to tell me that?” Ultimately, we cannot control how the ungodly accept our message. We cannot be true to the gospel and not offend on some level. But we do not have to be offensive in how we declare the truth. Remember, it is not, “They will know we are Christians by our rage” but rather, “They will know we are Christians by our love.” Our message is marked by both truth and grace. We are called to exhibit both characteristics. I know some believers who are committed to being “brutally honest.” The truth is often they are more brutal than honest. We are not called to bludgeon folks into the kingdom but to speak the truth in love allowing the Holy Spirit to convict of truth, righteousness and judgment.
So, by all means, speak the truth. Speak with great passion and do not compromise. But such does not demand anger, a red face or condescending tone. Allow the weight of truth to carry the argument. Allow the Spirit to win the day. In the end we are witnesses to the truth. What does a witness do? Tells the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. The witness does not prosecute the case, that job belongs to another. By the way, He is very capable to doing so!
That’s what was on my mind this morning.
Rod