Disparaging Words
It is almost impossible to get through a week without hearing one Christian disparage another. Unless we are personally invested in the conflict, we usually stand by feeling uncomfortable, while passively allowing our friend to “vent.” But the Bible tells us we have a responsibility in these kinds of situations. Our obligation begins with understanding how horrendous those disparaging words are to God.
In James 3 we are told that Christians, who at one moment exalt God and at the next tear each other down, have engaged in a serious sin that is both illogical and unacceptable (vv.9-11). In that text we are reminded that all people are made in the image of God (v.9). More than that, our Christian brothers and sisters – as imperfect as they may be – have been remade in the image of Christ and are in the process of sanctification (Col.3:9-10). Just as Paul told the Corinthians to “let no one despise” Timothy in the church at Corinth (1Cor.16:11), sometimes we need to feel our corporate obligation to shut down the mutual disparagement that goes on all around us, and encourage face-to-face resolutions when the situation is serious.
I know we don’t generally like these kinds of community obligations; after all we have enough trouble policing our own words. Yet, when we refuse to be a sounding board for these kinds of derogatory rants we might find it has a sanctifying effect on our own tongues as well.
-- Pastor Mike
Our gift to you with your generous donation.
The Art of Neighboring by Jay Pathak & Dave Runyon
Once upon a time people knew their neighbors, but in this new world of mobility and increasing isolationism it's hard to make lasting connections with those who live right outside our front door.
This unique and inspiring book asks the question: What is the most loving thing I can do for the people who live right next door? Learn to build genuine relationships with this specially selected resource from Focal Point.
Request The Art of Neighboring with your generous donation this month.
Click Here to visit Focal Point Ministries' website
