Simply what struck me as I was in my Bible this morning. This verse hit particularly close to home, as recent and not-so-recent events pushed me to the point where I had to take these very actions. I had been questioning my actions, as to whether I did the right thing, and I was at peace reading Paul's instructions. There comes a point where the best maneuver is to walk away, as one of the most destructive things to be associated with is someone who is out to divide. Someone who perpetuates fallacies, who hurts others with their own interpretations of the truth, rather than the truth. It happens all the time. And we are instructed to forgive, no matter what. I had forgiven, but questioned my actions. Should I have persisted in trying to mend a situation that was just getting worse, one that was alienating me from people I loved and cared for? Alienating me from people who were my Christian support system-family and friends who I could turn to when I felt like I couldn't hear what God was saying. I am confident in my decision now, though it was terribly painful. This verse simply spoke to me, and also reminded me to not be divisive or crude. It is amazing what a few days of Paul can do for someone, to remind them of who God wants us to be in Christ-the guidelines that are so simple--be a good person--yet so easy to push to the wayside when it is easier to complain or criticize.
Titus 3:1-11 (Emphasis added by me)
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.
At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace , we might become heirs having hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.
But avoid foolish controveries and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
Friday, September 24, 2010
1 comment:
I welcome hospitable, intelligent discussion. I do not welcome mean-spirited comments. Though they are "moderated" I post pretty much everything, with a very, very small exception-that being spam and those who aim to hurts others intentionally. I'd love hear what you have to say, otherwise!
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I should point out the most important parts, for me, are those in bold. We are all able to be the bad person in these verses, but it is important that if we are being influences by such a person, we recognize it. And the very last sentences are rather harsh. I think such a person is not condemned if they are able to eventually recognize what they are doing. Some aren't, though, and it is a very sad situation, one that we, as Christians, should keep in prayer.
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