Something old, something new
I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. –1 Corinthians 9:22b-23 (NIV)
Re-assembling our faith and living it out in a way that is consistent and culturally relevant is a component of loving our neighbor. Throughout Paul’s ministry, he tailored his approach depending on his surroundings. “By all means possible” was not a nice-sounding phrase; it was a way of life.
The truth of God’s Word cannot be compromised, even when it is hard, inconvenient, and counter-cultural. Compromise includes watering down what the Bible says, AND adding the baggage of our own traditions and preferences. We must not presume to determine whether someone is eligible for salvation based on political leanings, occupation, who they count as friends, or any number of other dividing lines we could possibly draw. Nor do we need “enhancements” to the gospel that only impede the view of the cross. We talked last week about obsolete parts to jettison. Let’s move on to replacement parts for this restoration project.
“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive. No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. –1 Corinthians 10:23-24 (NIV)
The mindset we’re talking about is not new. It’s a relational approach modeled by Jesus in His time on earth, endorsed by Paul in his ministry. It involves getting to know people in a way that allows us to love them, and becoming united with them based on a shared devotion to Jesus and His Kingdom that transcends other factors. It need not be forced, but it can get messy.
We’re drawn to those who have something in common with us – we vote the same, we cheer for the same team, we grew up in the same region, or we like the same flavor ice cream. Some of those ties are more meaningful than others. The commonalities provide conversation-starters. The issue is in our differences, which have become more public, more pronounced, and more problematic in recent years, to the point that we often write people off before we even know them.
If an unbeliever invites you to a meal and you want to go, eat whatever is put before you without raising questions of conscience. –1 Corinthians 10:27 (NIV)
No one, in any age or generation, responds well to judgment, condemnation, and attacks. We must practice speaking the truth in love. Humility is key. We ask before we tell. We explore truth together. We gain trust before we instruct. We must do our homework. We must be willing to receive correction. (If I win the argument, but lose the relationship, was that really a win?)
Don’t avoid thorny issues; at the same time, understand there is an awful lot that is clear and unambiguous. Turns out, the main parts are also the best parts. When someone comes to understand that, the Spirit can bring awareness of life changes that need to accompany the new reality.
Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. –1 Corinthians 10:32-33 (NIV)
The gospel travels best on the road of relationship. That said, the world has distorted views of love and freedom. The most graceful and humble of approaches, once rightly understood as a call to a new way of life, may be met with resistance. I pray we offer an authentic picture of the heart of Christ. I pray God leads us into conversations with people of peace. I pray those who choose to reject Jesus do so for His sake, and not because of us. None of this is easy, which is why Christ placed His Spirit in us. Embrace it – never stop growing in Him!
For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? –2 Corinthians 2:15-16 (NIV)