Ask Your Preacher - Archives
On The Down Low
Tuesday, August 02, 2016In one instance, why did Jesus heal a man and then ask him to go and not tell anyone?Sincerely,
It’s A Secret
Dear It’s A Secret,
Jesus was trying to restrain the people from making Him a physical king. On multiple occasions, He commanded both people and demons to remain silent about His deity (Lk 4:41, Mk 1:44). Jesus needed to be able to move freely about the country in order to preach; if word of Him spread too quickly, He would be inundated by the crowds. In fact, this eventually happened (Mk 1:42-45). Jesus was trying very hard to avoid allowing His popularity to overcome His message. The people were so impressed by the miracles that they sought to make Him a physical king… completely missing the point of what He was teaching (Jhn 6:14-15).
Pick Your Battles
Monday, August 01, 2016As a Christian, if someone thinks I have done them wrong, and they tell me I own them an apology, and I tell them I have nothing to be sorry for – at first, I thought I had done wrong, but others said I didn't do wrong; this person refuses to put it in the past and let it go without an apology. I am a young Christian and now feel I did nothing wrong, and I refuse to apologize. Am I wrong in doing this?Sincerely,
Where’s The Wrong?
Dear Where’s The Wrong,
With all do respect, your refusal to offer any type of apology is probably showing your youth. Paul tells us to “as much as it depends on us” seek peace (Rom 12:18). Jesus says that we should turn the other cheek and go the extra mile (Matt 5:39-41). Whether you actually did something wrong is irrelevant; you can still apologize for having hurt the person’s feelings. Being the bigger person isn’t easy, but it is part of the lifestyle Christ has called us to. Jesus tells us to love even our enemies (Lk 6:35). Who knows… maybe your kindness and olive branch of peace will soften the heart of the other person (Rom 12:20).