There is a theory being circulated in the Body of Christ, and while it’s nothing that hasn’t been propagated before, I want to weigh in on it.
The gist of the theory, or teaching, is that God Alone watches over His kids and corrects them if and when they need it. In other words, keep quiet and don’t tell anyone they’re wrong.
If that were true, why did Paul and others write the things listed below? (Remember, they wrote as they were instructed by the Holy Spirit).
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,” (Hebrews 10:24 ESV)
“I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder,” (2 Peter 1:13 ESV)
“This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder,” (2 Peter 3:1 ESV)
“But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.” (1 Corinthians 14:3 NKJV)
“And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV)
“And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.” (Jude 1:22 – 1:23 NKJV)
Of course there’s a right way and a wrong way to go about stirring up the brethren. Like Paul wrote in Galatians 6:1, “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.”
Considering yourself, or in other words, don’t become prideful but keep your mind and spirit guarded by humility.
The New Testament teaches we all have a responsibility to watch over each other and do what we can to help one another grow in Christ. It’s not an easy thing, because sometimes we don’t want the help or we feel like we shouldn’t be interfering in someone else’s life.
But if we don’t, who will?
Over the last few years I’ve written over 800 posts, each with some reference to Jesus and His work in us and the world around us. Some have been kind of “in your face”, but most were written to be a source of encouragement to whoever would read it.
Today things are changing. No, I’m not saying it’s “no more mister nice guy”, but I am saying I intend, with God’s help and direction, to “stir the pot.”
I’m not going to rant, talk right wing (or left wing) politics, or anything just to make people mad. I AM, however, going to focus on issues some, of not many, believers consider to be gray areas when the Bible shows they’re black and white.
Why am I going this direction?
Because I believe we’re running out of time. If someone is going to make a difference in this world, it might as well be the church. But if the church isn’t standing for righteousness, or God’s way of doing things, our example and voice will be either muted or nothing more than a loud irritant.
That’s why I’m changing the name of the web site. You’ll still find encouragement, hope, and comfort in the things I write (at least I hope you will), but there will be a more direct approach on some subjects I address.
(At times, I may even step on my own toes. And that’s a good thing!)
“Stirring the Pot – one post at a time” is not intended to be the final word on anything in the Bible. I’m open to having nice, considerate, dialogue so we can stir up each other. I hope you follow the posts and comment often.
Explore the rest of the site while you’re at it. Some parts are still under construction, but I think you’ll find the material on each page encouraging and helpful to your walk with Jesus.
Amen
Jan Grace 