1-27-19 Christianity and the Public Arena

Daily Jot: Christianity and the public arena - Bill Wilson -
 
One of the purposes of The Daily Jot is to equip readers with a Biblical perspective on a current event so they are able to use it as encouragement to evangelize. That you are able to see an event from a Biblical lens and speak intelligently with the facts about it to someone is certainly a form of evangelization. Jesus said in Matthew 5:13, "You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men." The Daily Jot provides you with that steady supply of salt so that you can "Let your light so shine before men." This is a rough arena. People get angry. Accuse. Judge. Project. Even threaten.
 
When I tell you about them, it's to give you an example of what happens when you bring truth to the world. It's an example to prepare you for what you might encounter, even among your own Christian brethren. I want you to know what is out there so that you can have a response. We know there are people who absolutely hate Donald Trump. They say they are Christians. I wonder if they are because of what they write to me. They are quick to call names, to imply that I don't have a brain, even to say that I am not saved. If you use The Daily Jot to make your points, you may face the very same accusations. It takes a tough skin to be in the truth business because to some, truth is not always considered fair.
 
Here are a couple of examples from readers commenting on Jots: "It's evident by your words that you are not a Christian sir. That's your choice... Trump goes against everything God says about being godly." "With all due respect sir, do you follow the Sound Doctrine of Jesus Christ? Or do you belong to some worldly religion? It will give me a clue as to why a Christian man would vote for someone that is a joke." See, this is the kind of response one gets when telling it like it is. This is what can happen to you when you speak truth. It's how you handle the conversation that will determine the outcome. Don't get angry and take the bait they are offering. Educate. Ask questions to lead them to a logical conclusion. Also know when you just can't contend with a fool. Remember, you are representing Christ.
 
Their pattern is one of projection. They call into question your Christianity. What does that tell you? They call names like racist or bigot. What does this say about their feelings toward others? Usually when someone accuses you of something totally out of context, they are accusing you of what they are or what they have done. The response needs to be done in respect, in love and in firmness. Holding accountability is a tough job. Being a Christian takes tough skin. Just read how the apostles, watchmen, and prophets were treated. As you speak out on the issues of the day from a Biblical perspective, be an Ephesians 6 person-speak boldly as you ought to speak, and having done all, stand! Be encouraged!

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