Some 'Christians' 'goal' in life is to persuade people to believe in Christ. That wasn't Jesus' aim and should not be ours. Our purpose should be to bring 'Shalom' (peace, restoration, wholeness) because of Christ to people. AND it is only through Christ that Shalom can come.
8 comments:
I really don't think you can say that Jesus (Christ's) goal wasn't to persuade people to believe and trust in the God of the Universe.
It is so much more than that Josh. So much more. What you say here just is too narrow and defined. What are you doing then, on Monday nights and at your job than persuading people? It's a low word to use but that is what it is? You are sharing your thoughts, testimony, and beliefs in hopes that they will join you in the blessed life of those that seek the Lord, right?
Perhaps I should have keyed in on the word persuade. Yes I believe with my entire being in God the Father, the son and the Holy spirit, but persuasion is not my motive. I"m not looking to classically argue or induce someone into believing. Jesus knew that if his highest goal was to persuade then love loses something. Of course it happens, but I don't believe that it was his ultimate goal. God wants to see restoration of life (shalom). Wholeness, liberation, peace, hope, freedom, etc. How bout that? (Did I persuade you. ;)
:) Not entirely. What is your goal? Cannot persuasion be out of love? There cannot be peace without God, or any of the other things you mention. Those all come from dying to yourself and accepting Christ's sacrafice. If you want people to have that, even out of love, it would mean you want them to accept Jesus' gift. So what other road is there to get them to reach that point except persuasion. The road of persuasion takes many forms, it's just living and loving as Christ loved, it's speaking out about God, and it's calling people out. Persuasion is so many things, but that really is what this all comes down to. Christians are all persuading non-believers to join the bandwagon of life, even you and me my friend.
so really your initial comment was one of semantics.?
Well, I suppose so. Was your original post referring to in-your-face Christianity?
I just like arguing. :)
yes and no.
Hey Josh. Looks like you have been busy. I read all the comments and understand both points of veiw. I'm mean, when Paul is writing to Philemon he says something like, 'I could argue with you about this but I would rather appeal to you out of love'. But, you guys are talking about Jesus and Paul isn't him.
katie
Post a Comment