Twisty Words – They are Everywhere
This is not a political post, but a post about humanity.
I do not believe either presidential candidate is racist. Have they both said things that were not classy. Yes. But it’s interesting to hear their supporters defend or correct their statements.
“Well, he didn’t mean that,” or “He misspoke,” or “Look at his past.”
I bet I have said some things I didn’t mean. I know I have misspoke. I know I’m not always correct. So I cannot judge someone by someone’s misstatement. Yet we all do.
And it’s not just during political season. It’s in the church as well.
How many times have you read something in the Bible you didn’t agree with, and quickly go to find someone or another source that agrees with you?
I know I have done it.
And it’s sad that I still do.
I have had many theological discussions with people and we didn’t see eye for eye on the same verse. And sadly, one of us is wrong. God cannot be both for and against something. It’s not possible for Him to say to not do something and then on the other side of the coin say it’s okay.
It’s not possible.
But there are many people who state this in their theological philosophy.
When we try to correct the Word of God, we are not citing the Word of God anymore but the word of ourselves.
We have been studying in church the most controversial statement Jesus said,
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6 ESV
Why do we have defend this statement? Because people think that it sounds arrogant or discriminatory or judgemental. But nothing in Jesus’ life shows these characteristics. Yet, people will twist His words to better suit their personal agenda.
That is what is sad. People will look past proof and read a verse they disagree with and rake over the words like stirring some hot coals. The more we defend the Gospel with our words, we lose. The Gospel doesn’t needs our words for defense.
His words are much more powerful than anything I could write. We need to use His words a little more and ours a little less.
But it’s so hard to do.
Think of a topic that divides the church and you will find people correcting a verse. “Well, God didn’t mean that,” or “God is love,” or “It’s says we are not supposed to judge.”
And sadly, when it comes down the crux of the matter, there is a right and there is a wrong. No matter how you try to spin it, it’s black or white. In the area of God, gray is still wrong because it’s not pure. Yet, we delight to play in the land of shadows because at least we are not in the dark.
We all do it. I admit I do. But I’m trying.
So, this season of humanity, listen more to the truth behind the words than the flowery words themselves. I would rather be a friend to someone I can trust than a slick silver tongue salesman who will twist his words like a contortionist for his personal gain.
Once again, this post is not primarily about politics. I just mentioned it because I’m seeing so many mean posts on candidates lately.
May we show a little more grace during this trying time. I know I could use a little more.
Well, a lot more.
Peace
