"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." 1 Peter 3:15
Some people will do things, believe things, teach things that are against what we do, believe, and think. Such is life. Shall we run around accpeting everyone as "ok" and "good" without interjecting? If you are a Christian, I hope not. Think of this: I am driving down the road and the bridge ahead is out. I did not notice until it was almost too late. I look over the edge and see that it was too late for some.
However, in the distance, someone is coming. I need to warn them that they need to slow down and turn around before it is too late...They may not like it because they are inconvenienced or just want to drive however they feel like.
The same, it seems, is true for someone's teachings, life or beliefs. They are headed down the wrong path. We warn them, we tell them, "here is the truth". Sometimes in telling someone the truth, we are disagreeing with them. We don't like that when someone tells us we are wrong. Today's society calls us intolerant, bigoted and judgemental. But is being in disagreement with someone automatically mean we are rude, disrespectful, or intolerant? I hope not.
Not if we are to be good ambassadors for Christ. In our disagreements, it is important to remember to be respectful. That doesn't we have to agree with everything someone says, but it means that are prepared to give reasons for the hope we have. With gentleness and respect. Even disagreement can be handled respectfully. That is a mark of a good ambassador and a good citizen. My hope is that I will represent a good ambassador.
Derrick
Thursday, March 15, 2007
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2 comments:
I think that part of the problem is that many people just don't know how to disagree anymore. It is a taboo thing to do. However, I do agree that it is very important to be respectful in the process of disagreeing with someone.
One is also never to old to learn. Life is a process of constant learning. To disagree is fine. To be respectful is of vital importance. I think that Tracy is right. Many people just have lost the touch of how to appropriately respond. Like me, an old dog can learn new tricks..
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