Friday – He would challenge

“I, Paul, appeal to you through the gentleness and kindness of Christ. (Some people say that I am humble when I am with you and that I am bold when I am not with you. Please don’t force me to be blunt with you when I come there. I am quite sure that I’ll have to challenge those who think we like like people in this world.” II Cor 10:1-2 (Simple English Bible)

Is it better for Christians to object to immorality and evil in the world or just to let it ride for awhile and not get so bent and twisted about the state of affairs? I notice both of these attitudes in many Christians I know. Some want to march to the capital, waving banners and stopping traffic. Others want to get on with spreading the gospel, changing people lives rather than changing laws. I suppose each have an effective results of some kind but many others are standing on the sidelines wondering what to do.

Paul wasn’t backward about coming forward. He would challenge those who had worldly goals, worldly ideas and worldly thoughts. His objective was to empower the church to do good works, keep the Light of Christ alive and bring sinners to the Throne of Grace. If it meant he could face Christians who had other agendas and objectives, then he wouldn’t back down. Whatever it took, however long it took and whomever needed to be spoken to.

I admire his approach. Paul knew when to confront and stand his ground. He also know when to be diplomatic and thoughtful. His focus was on Christ, only on Christ.

Which should be ours, doncha think?

Steve