Consider the relative levels of vitriol for two people. Billy Graham, and Pat Robertson. Since I don’t know either of them, let’s assume that they are both well-meaning men who love Jesus and are doing their best to follow him. Why is the animosity toward Robertson intense, deep and wide among many non-Christians, while there is generally just neutrality or at worst, dislike, toward Graham? One theory is that Robertson is doing more to promote the kingdom of God, and consequently is under more attack from the prince of this world (Satan) and his minions. Another theory is that Billy Graham is so above reproach that even the people who dislike his message are hard pressed to find things about him to criticize. I know which of the two theories I believe.
What If I Stumble? from DC Talk begins with this statement – Christians are the greatest single cause of atheism in the world today, who acknowledge Jesus with their lips and deny him with their lifestyle. This Fark article and comments about a Delaware school district which aggressively promoted Christianity are excellent illustrations. Whatever possessed this school board to behave that way? People who really believe what the bible says know that faith affects every part of your life, including your political views and how you educate your children. BUT…
But dedicate your lives to Christ as Lord. Always be ready to defend your confidence in God when anyone asks you to explain it. However, make your defense with gentleness and respect. Keep your conscience clear. Then those who treat the good Christian life you live with contempt will feel ashamed that they have ridiculed you.
(1 Peter 3:15-16)
The school board’s behavior, especially permitting the singling out of a Jewish student, does not exemplify Christianity. And notice the verse above, “be ready… when anyone asks…” That doesn’t mean our faith should be hidden, just that we’re not trying to rub everyone’s nose in it or that we’re not trying to demand that other people comply with our religious requirements. And when we’re asked, we should “make your defense with gentleness and respect.” Remember the cartoon riots, when Muslims rioted all over the world because everyone else was not complying with a belief in Islam that Mohammad should not be pictured? Should we have to comply with Islamic law? Should others have to comply with Christianity?
It’s easy to condemn people outside the church for not living holy lives. But that is not what the bible teaches. I have several people in my life who hold me accountable – they have my permission, encouragement and gratitude to examine my life and when they see sin, point it out and keep after me about it. I wish it wasn’t necessary, but since I’m pursuing holiness and haven’t yet achieved it, I need the help of my friends to hold a mirror in front of me sometimes.
For it is no business of mine to be judging those who are outside; but it is yours to be judging those who are among you; As for those who are outside, God is their judge. So put away the evil man from among you. (1 Corinthians 5:12-13)
Given the behavior of some Christians, it’s not surprising that Jerry Falwell was quoted by Newsweek as equipping his students for “assault” ministry when what he actually said was “a salt ministry.” Christians, like every other group, tend to be painted with too broad a brush. All it takes is for a few of us to harm the reputation of all, and aggressive demands for non-believers to comply with our faith are not what we are called to proclaim.
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