WE NEVER KNOW WHO'S LISTENING

[A Monday / Wednesday / Friday Devotional Feature of the First Road Blog]

Considering Deuteronomy 6:4-9 as a call to biblical conversation, we've highlighted the temptation to slip into discussions built around the errors of men, and we've addressed the danger of reducing Scripture to clichés. Other stumbling blocks include debate and insensitivity. 

As for debates, let me just say: some must happen. But we never know who's listening. Does Jesus want our hearers to say, "All they do is argue." 

Of greater concern is our handling of the sin issue. Here we face four problems. First is the subtle self righteousness of denial. It crops up in remarks such as, “I don’t see how people can do that.” What? Have you no struggles with your corrupt old nature? Jesus himself, although never sinning, was in all ways tempted as we are and, therefore, is an understanding high priest. Beware: "There but for the grace of God go I," can be a subtle way of saying, "I thank you, God, that I am not as other men." 

Second is the bold self righteousness of presumption. “I would never do anything stupid (vile, vulgar, wicked) like that.” Pride hath its pit. There’s more than one way to be stupid (vile, vulgar, wicked).

Third, is the tendency to demonize the wicked and then end up stuttering when they do something non-demonic. Jesus' parable of the good Samaritan is not pretty for a demonizer.

Finally, there is the laziness of an unsanctified imagination. We seem very informed and descriptive as to the ways of wickedness and the destiny of the damned, but can we speak conversationally with informed imagination of the way of righteousness or the beauty of holiness?

Yes, we never know who's listening. It may even be the person we're talking to. Do they hear us speak with compassionate understanding, humble honesty and respect, and an authentic delight in God and his ways? How do you suppose Jesus in his youth learned to respond to his brothers (and maybe even his parents) when they struggled with sins and failures?

   

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