It might help to remember that when Christ called out the Pharisees, He knew their hearts. We cannot know anyone else's heart. We can decry sinful behavior, but we must treat others with love and respect. It doesn't matter if they "deserve" it or not. We are responsible for our own behavior. Support whoever your conscience dictates and discuss your viewpoint without acrimony.
LauraFebruary 26, 2020
You can be bold and stand up for the truth without being contentious, which is what Christ modeled, and I think the main point the author is trying to make. She notes that we should not be silent in the face of unrighteous behavior but directly address it by speaking "truth without venom." As noted in another comment, Christ did not always show His love in sweet words or actions, but undoubtedly Christ's motivation was always His unconditional love for God's children, and unlike us, He knew perfectly the thoughts and intents of the hearts and minds of those he chastised. So when we engage with those who have opposing views, are we doing so with
Gary M OliverFebruary 26, 2020
But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! (Mat 23) Love is not always shown in sweet words and actions. Christ openly condemned faithlessness, disobedience, and corruption. He drove the money changers from the temple. Although Christ is the Prince of Peace He told His apostles "Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword." Mat 10:34
Just trying to bring a little balance to the discussion.
Meghan DeckerFebruary 25, 2020
Excellent insights. President Faust said "When there is contention the Spirit of the Lord will depart, regardless of who is at fault." We can hold different opinions and express them without succumbing to hostility, which clouds our judgment and destroys relationships, on a national as well as a personal level. In the midst of turmoil, it is even more important for me to improve my sensitivity to the prompting of the Spirit, and the way I treat other people has a big impact on that sensitivity. I can also support leaders who show that same restraint and respect to others.
JohnellFebruary 25, 2020
Thank you for your timely expression of thoughts many of us have had.
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Bob SFebruary 27, 2020
Excellently put, Shelly!
Norma PellettFebruary 27, 2020
It might help to remember that when Christ called out the Pharisees, He knew their hearts. We cannot know anyone else's heart. We can decry sinful behavior, but we must treat others with love and respect. It doesn't matter if they "deserve" it or not. We are responsible for our own behavior. Support whoever your conscience dictates and discuss your viewpoint without acrimony.
LauraFebruary 26, 2020
You can be bold and stand up for the truth without being contentious, which is what Christ modeled, and I think the main point the author is trying to make. She notes that we should not be silent in the face of unrighteous behavior but directly address it by speaking "truth without venom." As noted in another comment, Christ did not always show His love in sweet words or actions, but undoubtedly Christ's motivation was always His unconditional love for God's children, and unlike us, He knew perfectly the thoughts and intents of the hearts and minds of those he chastised. So when we engage with those who have opposing views, are we doing so with
Gary M OliverFebruary 26, 2020
But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! (Mat 23) Love is not always shown in sweet words and actions. Christ openly condemned faithlessness, disobedience, and corruption. He drove the money changers from the temple. Although Christ is the Prince of Peace He told His apostles "Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword." Mat 10:34 Just trying to bring a little balance to the discussion.
Meghan DeckerFebruary 25, 2020
Excellent insights. President Faust said "When there is contention the Spirit of the Lord will depart, regardless of who is at fault." We can hold different opinions and express them without succumbing to hostility, which clouds our judgment and destroys relationships, on a national as well as a personal level. In the midst of turmoil, it is even more important for me to improve my sensitivity to the prompting of the Spirit, and the way I treat other people has a big impact on that sensitivity. I can also support leaders who show that same restraint and respect to others.
JohnellFebruary 25, 2020
Thank you for your timely expression of thoughts many of us have had.
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