Friday, March 5, 2010

Confrontation Jesus Style

In John 8:1-11 Jesus confronts a woman caught in adultery, but not like the crowds expect or want Him too. Instead of stones, he refuses to condemn her and offers her a way to sin no more.

In John 4:1-26 Jesus confronts a woman at a town well who has been ostracized by her community because of her sexual past and current lifestyle. He offers her living water.

When asked why He ate with tax collectors and sinners, Jesus responded, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:32)

Jesus' harshest confrontations came against the religious leaders of the day (Matthew 23).

Paul and other New Testament writers repeatedly admonish Christians to carry each others burdens or to speak truth in love, etc., but that is always directed from one Christian to another.

So, if we want to be faithful followers of Jesus, how do we confront sin and confront others who are living in sin? What is the best way? What should be the goal? Are there times when it is not appropriate to confront? Are there different standards for confrontation between Christians and non-Christians? Why do we find this whole practice so difficult?

1 comment:

  1. By living the life of a follower of Jesus, to show the world.By witnessing to all you come in contact with, not judging them, but offering to help them when or if they need that. Never redicule or put the person down because of their life style or sin.Don't jump into non christians with both feet but let your mouth be gentle and sweet.You can't go out and drop seed on hard, bare ground and expect a crop. You spade the ground, hoe and rake it,make a row in the dirt, and drop the seed.Cover the seed with soil and water as needed. Weed as needed and you'll get a beautiful, productive garden.People are like that, some people need lots of attention and work before they become productive.I think if a person is resentful or angry when approached with religion, you should back down so as to keep the opportunity open for approach later. Never give up. M.E.

    ReplyDelete