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Originally Posted by PsyOps  Speaking out against other faiths and condemning those in their beliefs is not the same thing. This clings to Jesus’ command to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”. Jesus corrected those who spoke out against him but he also forgave them. We shouldn’t accept whatever anyone says about God. I would attempt to tell them why I think my faith is right and that would be it. I’m not into thumping my Bible over peoples’ heads. Too many have been turned away from God by using these condemning tactics. Jesus showed love and compassion not condemnation; the only caveat being those leaders in the Sanhedrin. |
I have to differ with you on a few points PsyOps.
Speaking against someones beliefs can be a condemnation of them. If their beliefs aren't straight with Scripture, the Scripture condemns them. It isn't me who does it, but they're still condemned.
And Jesus did NOT forgive those who spoke out against Him. He said they would die in their sin & unbelief. He does not forgive everyone; that's what the unpardonable sin is.
I would agree with you that "Bible thumping" isn't always pleasant but it does happen sometimes. It usually starts as a difference of opinion and many times it escalates to an argument. I wish it wouldn't, but sadly it does.
I've never heard of Jesus backing down from a good Scripture thumping opportunity. He stayed in there and gave it to them good. Jude 3 tells us to do the same when necessary.
If you look carefully at what the Bible says, Jesus only condemned those who were perishing because He knew they wouldn't repent. The others He had compassion on. Those who scoff at the Bible are going to hear the truth from me. Nicely at first but sternly if they persist. Whether the change or not is up to them.
Those "condemnation tactics" are usually not necessary with a reasonable person. You've seen it here. I'll speak against something that I believe is incorrect and in come the name callers and scoffers. It happens.
