Witnesses or judges?
In our last teaching we talked about the basic requirements needed to become effective witnesses of Jesus. An important aspect to consider, if we want to become effective witnesses, is to make sure we follow the example given by our Lord. First, we have to follow the model of the message that Jesus preached:
From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” – Matthew 4:17
Second, we must proclaim the message following the example of how Jesus preached:
And their scribes and the Pharisees complained against His disciples, saying, “Why do You eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” – Luke 5:30-32
These points seem very basic, but unfortunately we tend to overlook them. Often we complicate the message with “ornaments” or explanations that go beyond the purpose of the message (keep in mind that you can only disciple someone who has already accepted the message of repentance). We cannot forget that we cannot change the hearts of the unbelievers; that is the work of the Holy Spirit. Our role is not to declare death sentences but to bring the good news of salvation. It is true that Jesus also had a strong message, but it was addressed to the religious leaders of his time whose spirituality was only external appearance and hypocrisy.
Another mistake we make is that instead of being witnesses we take the place of judges and condemn people before giving them the opportunity to really learn about the love of Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches that we shall not associate with those who are active in sinful behavior, but it does not refer to unbelievers, rather to those who have known the truths and call themselves believers.
I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. – 1 Corinthians 5:9-11
Jesus preached repentance, but at the same time had a personal touch with those that he called to repentance (that is why he was called a friend of sinners – Luke 7:34). How are we to reach the lost if we do not associate with them?
We have a great responsibility as witnesses of Christ. Let us try to carry it out following the biblical model so that in all we do Christ may be glorified.
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