This probably makes me weird, but I love the scenes in the New Testament where Jesus really lets the Pharisees and the teachers of the law have it. It's safe to say that He had zero tolerance for their hypocrisy. I like to imagine what it would have been like to be in the crowd and witness this incredibly awkward and tense scene (see Matthew 23). I'm sure I would be standing behind Jesus with a big grin on my face as He was ripping into them because if I am repulsed by anything, it's pride and hypocrisy.
But wait. You don't really think Jesus would let me get away with that, do you?
Inevitably, Jesus reveals what's really in my heart. I have no problem pointing out pride in someone else, but what about my own? It seems to show up the most when I'm pointing it out in others. Hmmmm.
Jesus didn't throw any soft punches regarding hypocrisy in character. The Pharisees and teachers of the law looked good on the outside, but inside was a totally different story. If we read this only think, "Wow, Jesus really let them have it!" then we have missed the point.
Wondering where I'm going with this?
We are entering into a highly charged political season, and as Christ-followers, we'd better be on our guard against pride. It's easy to take a stand for what we believe is right yet pridefully condemn anyone who doesn't agree with us.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not suggesting we not take a stand for what's right. What I am saying is, we'd better do it in the right way. Because we can be right, but if we are wrong in the way we are right, we're still wrong.
If I profess Jesus as my Lord and Savior and am quick to tell others I am a Christian and how much I love everyone...yet pridefully condemn those who disagree with me politically and resort to name-calling ... what's that say to someone who isn't a Christian?
Think about this for a minute.
Jesus was right ALL THE TIME. Yet we never see Him belittling or arguing from a prideful position. It IS possible to show respect and honor to anyone – even if we disagree about everything.
Yes, by all means, take a stand for what's right. But let's stand with a humble heart and the same mindset as Christ Jesus. Let's honor those with whom we disagree. Let's engage in political conversation as though Jesus were standing next to us. Because here's the deal – if we don't – then we end up exhibiting the same pride that we hate in others. Who wins if that happens? Neither side – but the enemy sure does rejoice. Let's not cooperate with the enemy this political season. Let's rise above and walk in humility as Jesus did. It IS possible.
#preachingtomyself
#thestruggleisreal
#getinvolvedinpoliticsbutdoitlikeJesuswould
#bekind
#standforwhatsright
#Jesusislistening