Good morning! How are we faithing? I heard a preacher talking about being bold about our faith. Do we force our beliefs? Do we criticize other beliefs? Do we keep silent when we know a wrong is being taught or perpetrated? Wow, loaded questions and yet simple actually. Forcing beliefs is a touchy comment because in this day and age even mentioning Jesus as saviour is deemed as forcing. How wrong that view is. This faith that believes a man is God and rose up out of the grave for you and me, who's blood covers all sin, who stripes by we are healed, how could we possibly be silent if we are convinced we are saved and that salvation is available to everyone? The fact is, we can't. Of course while our boss is giving instructions for the day it probably isn't appropriate to interject Jesus at that moment but at break, at lunch, in the ride to the job site is appropriate. You know what? If we live as we believe, they will see Jesus and will ask what you are about anyways. On criticizing other beliefs, I believe the bible is the infallible word of God and when others twist it for their own gain I should be ready to answer with scripture to refute. Now do I do it in a condemning, threatening manner? All that would do is cause a fight and then we both look like ideological zealots and nobody sees truth. Rebutting with kindness and scripture is how we should respond. If we believe the Word is Gods words, WE do not have to "win". The Word teaches us to plant seeds, water them, harvest them and we as believers must learn to recognise what our role is when we speak the Word. We've discussed this before. As for keeping silent when sin is taught or being done, we can't. However, we surly can be wise in our methods. Pointing fingers and scolding most times just reaps ire. Of course we are not talking about child rearing here but our lives and the life around us. Justice and safety aside, we must present the Word, the Gospel as messengers and not as judges. God is the judge. The Holy Spirit convicts. We must not get in the way by being indignant and looking down on people...Jesus' blood covers ALL sin remember. These are things to ponder this weekend and I encourage you to look at your attitude to the lost and to prepare yourself for battle but remember, wisdom goes further than brute force. The wise can flank while the headstrong bull past the opportunity to lead others to salvation.
1 Chronicles 22:13
Then you shall prosper, if you are careful to observe the statutes and the ordinances which the LORD commanded Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and courageous, do not fear nor be dismayed.
NAS
Acts 5:27-32
And when they had brought them, they stood them before the Council. And the high priest questioned them, saying, "We gave you strict orders not to continue teaching in this name, and behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us." But Peter and the apostles answered and said, "We must obey God rather than men. "The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you had put to death by hanging Him on a cross. "He is the one whom God exalted to His right hand as a Prince and a Savior, to grant repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. "And we are witnesses of these things; and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him."
NAS
remember Gary..
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your Word and for your encouragement that we may be bold in our faith. Teach us wisdom along with boldness that we may live and speak as disciples of yours. Lord we fear sometimes and ask for healing and boldness that honors you. Show us when it is appropriate and when it will plant in good soil so others find your peace and love. Lord help us be keenly aware of the lost ones and their needs, in Jesus name, amen
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