Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Him who is the Head, that is, Christ. Ephesians 4:15 Consider the following sets of words: Compassionate, communicative, kind, fair, long-suffering, patient, accepting, gentle, merciful, understanding. Honest, holy, set-apart, stand-taking, consistent, dedicated, mature, righteous, unyielding, just. Which set best describes you? Sometimes it feels like we Christians divide ourselves into these two camps. Camp A rightly believes that God is love, and as such they do a fairly good job of not alienating those they meet and know and care for. Of course, with every strength theres a weak side, and sometimes our well-meaning Camp-A brethren can become wishy-washy and overly accepting, even false. Camp B, on the other hand, rightly believes that God is holy, and as such they do a fairly good job of reminding those they meet and know and care for that sin is sin, and God can not tolerate it. Of course, sometimes our well-meaning Camp-B brethren can end up sounding a lot like gongs and cymbals, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. People know were here, but they wish wed quiet down for a bit. Perhaps all the conflict between our own camps has torn at your heart and worn down your spirit, too. Now consider... which set of words best describes Our Father? Just like Jesus. He didnt excuse sins. But He did forgive them. He was equal with God. But He didnt consider equality with God a thing to be grasped. He was sinless. But He refused to cast the first stone at the accused. He demanded His followers take up a cross and follow Him unreservedly unfettered. But He was sad for those who werent ready to do so. But even if you find yourself gravitating more towards one campsite or the other, thats okay. The same chapter that talks of the need to speak the truth in love also mentions, just a couple verses earlier, that, It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare Gods people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. Were on the same team. And the goal is a built-up body. One that wont stand unless balanced, unless level, unless unified. Whats the result? Refer back to our verse today. When we speak truth in love, we will grow up. Bottom line, Campers, our body needs to mature. Intersecting Faith & Life: Simply ask yourself the next time you proclaim the Word: am I being loving? Are my motives pure? Likewise, the next time you get those warm feelings about how fair and open-minded and communicative youre being with unbelievers and sinners, ask, Lord, what truth do they need to know? Love enough to tell the truth. Be truthful enough to not misrepresent how your Lord meets broken people where they are. It can be scary to think about doing, but remember that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and love, and discipline.
Posted on: Wed, 26 Mar 2014 11:03:07 +0000
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