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Post by Pastor Michelle on Sept 22, 2012 21:30:19 GMT -5
In Matthew 12:1-14, Jesus is criticized for ‘working’ on the Sabbath. How do you respond when people criticize you? What can we learn from how Jesus responds?
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Post by kingdomseeker on Sept 25, 2012 10:00:42 GMT -5
It is possible that we would react in accordance with how comfortable we are with our position on whatever we are being criticized for or perhaps if we harbor pride it may rear its ugly head as we may feel that we are being unjustly attacked. Jesus in His response exuded not only conviction of His position but also a deep knowledge of the very Scriptures the Objectors held as Sacred. These are two points that are vital if we as believers wish to fulfill the Great Commission. First we must be well versed in our belief (not only that we believe but why we believe) and second we like Jesus need to have some understanding of the worldview that the objector espouses. If we are attempting to dialogue with an atheist for example it would help to know not only what they believe but where the holes are in their worldview. Jesus did exactly this as he pointed out the inconsistency of His objectors accusations.  |
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Post by Pastor Michelle on Sept 26, 2012 16:53:24 GMT -5
I'd say their is one other piece to dialogue, in addition to knowing what the person we are talking to believes, we need to know how to relate to them and connect with them. Sometimes we are guilty of assuming things or talking above or below where that person is at. Bottom line, we need to meet people where they are at when we respond to such criticism.
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Post by kingdomseeker on Sept 27, 2012 11:32:26 GMT -5
Most definitely! I was speaking of tactics only. Understanding the persons worldview goes a long way to discovering where they are at. Granted there are shades of gray in each worldview however they can be worked through as the conversation warrants. The bottom line is being familiar with the generalities of the various worldviews. A very important passage is one of the main passages of Apologetics. 15 But in your hearts revere 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, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. (1st Peter 3:15-16) While tactics require knowledge compassion concerns the heart. Both are necessary to be ambassadors for Christ. |
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