Are We Using the Right Methods to Defend Our Faith?

I decided to start this blog because I have so much going through my mind and felt strongly that I needed to share it.  What got me to thinking so much today?  It was an article on a news website about Chaplains being told that they could no longer pray in the name of Jesus when saying the prayer at city sponsored events, such as police department promotions.  The article itself didn’t spark this fire in me, but rather the comments from readers.  Of course there was the usual Jesus Freak hater that thinks we should all be committed because of our delusional beliefs (that’s a whole other topic).  What really got me was the number of people that argued with him.  Someone even made a personal attack on the guy.

This got me to thinking about what comes out of arguing with a non-believer.  I fully understand defending our faith and am concerned about where our country is headed on religious freedom.  On the other hand, at what point do we, as Christians, cross that line into bitterness and hatred ourselves.  Does our ranting and attacks on those with opposing beliefs really further the kingdom of God?  Does God really need this level of defending?  I may have missed something, but I don’t recall a story of Jesus arguing with people.  He asked them pointed questions, stated His point, and then moved on.  He even told His disciples to shake off the dust and move on when they were rejected.

So, how should we react?  I’m no biblical scholar, but this is what I feel is a good start.  First, we should strive to walk with Jesus and chase after Him.  I ask Him daily to show me how to love like He does.  It’s only through His love that we can approach anyone with the gospel.  It’s starting with our family, neighbors, and co-workers. Yes, I am telling myself this as well.  I just can’t help but wonder what this young man’s beliefs would be if someone would share the gospel to him in love.  I feel saddened that the responses to him probably only drove him further from Jesus.  Maybe it’s time for us to stop being so passionate about being reactive to attacks on our faith and being proactive in leading those around us to Christ.

Blessings!  Karen