Articles
Standing Up for the Truth Without Being Obnoxious
God expects those who belong to Him to take a firm stand on moral and doctrinal issues. In doing so, some will oppose us and may accuse us of hate speech. In view of the “politically correct” thinking so prevalent today, how can we stand for truth in such a way so that we don’t close doors unnecessarily?
“The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth…” (2 Tim. 2:24-25 NASB).
Kindness, patience, and gentleness go a long way in presenting unpopular truths. Otherwise we may come across as abrasive, arrogant, holier-than-thou know-it-alls.
Remembering that we ourselves deserve hell and do not deserve heaven will help us keep humble toward those who do not yet understand the truth we have been so privileged to know.
Oh how we want them to see what we now see so they will be blessed as we have been blessed!
How can we get our point across without needlessly antagonizing others? Let’s live in such a way that our message is positively reinforced by godly conduct (1 Tim. 6:1; Titus 2:7-10; 1 Peter 2:15; 3:1-2, 15-16). Opponents are quick to notice if we don’t practice what we preach. On the other hand, they are impressed with good deeds, which even unbelievers appreciate (Matt. 5:16).
Even the perfect Son of God was wrongly accused of many things (Matt. 11:19; 12:24; 26:63-66; 27:63; Mark 3:20-21, 30; Luke 23:2; John 5:16, 18; 7:12, 20; 8:48, 52; 9:16, 24; 10:20, 33).
We shouldn’t be surprised if it happens to us as well (John 15:18-21). Let’s just make sure there is no truth in their accusations.
And who knows? Someone who speaks ill of us today may in time recognize the truth for what it is because of our godly conduct and consistent goodwill!
And won’t that make it all worthwhile?
