Now, I know there will be those out there who will note that I have covered this topic a few times over the past decade, but it does need to be said. If you don’t want to hear what I think, don’t ask me the question. How often have people asked you a question only to argue your opinion trying to get you to change your mind? Think about it, why ask the question if all you are trying to do is start an argument or they want to hear their opinion coming out of your mouth? A few months ago, I was asked a question to which there were numerous answers that could cover a variety of viewpoints. To answer wrong, that is, express a viewpoint that runs contrary to that of the inquisitor, would have led to a rather one-sided debate. You see, the person I was talking with does not appreciate the fine art of a good linguistic joust but would rather take the “excessive volume equals a win” method of discussion. As the discussion ramped up, I simply asked “what do you wish to accomplish with this discussion?” The response was not completely unexpected. My debating partner informed me that the aim of the discussion was for me to see their point of view and to come around in my thinking. If you don’t want my opinion, don’t ask for my viewpoint.
The Laws of Moses were supplemented with the laws of mankind. When Jesus came and tried to let those around them better understand the truth of the Law, the crowds yelled and tried to scream down the message. Christ opened up a dialogue and the masses drove the Messiah to the edge of the precipice and He simply walked back through the crowd and walked away. I was once told by a very wise person that once the other person becomes verbally aggressive, that is they hurl insults or try to shout you down or, in the case of Christ, attempt to throw you off a cliff, the debate is over and the discussion dissolves into an argument. According to scripture, God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:17). The debate is not whether Jesus was real or if God is truly the Creator but rather whether one believes in the promise of the Saviour. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16). My position within the church, within the Christian community is to present a message, be prepared to respectfully defend the position and to be open to the viewpoint of others. Others can choose to follow the Lord or not, it is not up to me to bully others into belief but rather to be transparent and considerate of other’s position. Life is too short to get overly stressed through arguing.
“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” Matt 26:52-54
This Sunday, we welcome Rev Darryl Wicks who will be presenting a Mission Message. Pastor Todd is away on holidays and will be returning November 8th. We would love for you to join us either in person or online Sunday at 10:30 AM MST.
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We look forward to seeing you this Sunday.
Blessings,
Pastor Todd
www.mainavefellowship.ca
Our Mission “To live the love of Christ”
