Controversy

In 2 Timothy 2:14-18 (KJV) Paul writes to Timothy and says "Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers." Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymeneus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some."

In the above scripture Paul is advising Timothy to warn the people about useless disputes, and hair splitting debates over the law. He tells Timothy that useless bickering is dangerous, and it eats like a canker destroying the Church.

2 Timothy 2:24-25 (KJV)  Says "And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;" These verses are clear on the fact that we are to be meek (humble), patient, apt to teach and gentle to everyone, and Jesus set a perfect example of this. Instead of following His example, however, many Christians at any given opportunity launch into scriptural tirades, get off topic, and come across as if they think they stand alone in the righteous zone.

 Jesus  walked among a multitude of sinners, who were guilty of various sins. He sat among lost sinners, and ate with them. He taught the truth everywhere He went, and He did so in love. There are numerous Christians who have veered so far off the course of His example, when it comes to teaching others about God's word, that it is heart breaking. Jesus never once behaved in a haughty, proud, condescending, finger pointing manner as He went about teaching the truth. Not once did He become angry, and argumentative while teaching, but rather exhibited patience, kindness, humility, understanding, and love. Many Christians have strayed so far from His example that they're actually running people away from the Lord in an attempt to lead them to him. They are contributing to the stereotypical idea that Christians are self-righteous, holier than thou individuals. Nothing productive or positive can ever come from this type behavior, but harm, pain, and  hurt certainly can. I feel confident God never wanted Christians to inflict emotional pain on others at any time, much less use His Word to do it.

I believe the Bible to be one hundred percent truth, and that we as Christians should be witnesses for Christ. I believe we should  share God's word with others in a loving, kind, meek, patient, and understanding way.  I believe that people should have the right to say anything they choose to say. I don't believe that Christians should engage in an argument or heated debate over Biblical issues as this is not how Jesus taught us to conduct ourselves. To do so  is against scripture and it brings negative results. It causes  a tremendous amount of  pain and hurt, it provokes anger,  and it does nothing in the way of introducing people to Christ.

I would like to encourage you today to be a witness for God, tell people about Him, and his  precious gift of salvation. Tell them what wonderful things He has done for you, but do so in a loving, patient, and kind manner. Follow the example that Jesus set for you, and witness without engaging in arguments, and using God's Word in a manner that hurts and offends others. Deliver the truth of his Word with love and kindness, not in a condemning manner.  Let God convict people's hearts. Witness to others and witness the truth of God's Word, but do it in a manner that leaves the person you're witnessing to desiring to know God, and to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Who knows, maybe one Sunday you'll find that person sitting next to you on a pew. Remember God is love.

If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.