"Faith is found beside the most refined life, the freest government, the profoundest philosophy, the noblest poetry and the purest humanity." Theodore T. Munger
A daredevil once strung a tightwire between two skyscrapers in New York City. As a crowd formed he asked how many believed he could walk across without falling. A few cheers went up. So the man carefully and successfully walked across to the other building and back. Next he asked hoiw many believed he could cross the wire while carrying a 75 pound bag of sand. A few more people joined in their approval and watched as the man once again crossed the chasm and back, returning this time to loud cheers. A third time the daredevil asked how many believed he could successfully make it across and back this time carrying two sacks of sand loaded in a wheelbarrow! The crowd roared their encouragement as the man once again completed the amazing feat. Finally the man asked if the crowd believed he could carry another man in the wheelbarrow across and back? The throng erupted with shouts of approval, but when the daredevil asked for a volunteer to sit in the wheelbarrow ...there was silence.
"Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven." Matthew 10:32-33
The daredevil in the story above publicly demonstrated his belief in his ability to perform a death-defying act of balance. The crowd, after seeing several successful crossings professed their belief in his abilities as well. But when asked to participate in the event, their faith suddenly shrunk and no one was found to do more than be a spectator.
This lesson deals with the question of whether or not Christians should be open and visible with their faith, especially in public forums, from politics to schools or workplaces to the grocery store. Is there any place where we should not be open about our faith? Are there any circumstances under which we should perhaps not hide our faith but not be particularly demonstrative about it? Can we always declare that our faith is what guides our decision-making no matter what the topic of conversation?
Here are a few Scriptures to consider as you post your comments. Again I will wait until Sunday to post my own. Enjoy!
Matthew 5:14-16
Romans 14:9-13
Acts 4:1-20
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There is definitely a fine line when it comes to "declaring' your faith and "forcing" your faith. We do not want to be "Bible Beaters", but that does not mean we should deny our beliefs. That is why it is so important that we be aware of our actions and words around people. It seems that when non-believers know you are a Christian they watch you with a close eye. They want to see if you will make any mistakes, and will be glad to call you out on them. Doesn't mean we should never proclaim that we are Christian, but we should face the challenge of being Christ like. So yes, in the work place, at the grocery store and even when we are driving, we should be mindful of our actions. And if someone asks about our faith, then we can share it, or when someone is going through a rough time we can pray for them and encourage them. It's the small things that count.
ReplyDeleteIs there any place where we should not be open about our faith?
ReplyDeleteIf you claim to be a Christian and are engaging in some type of activity which is not consistent with Christian beliefs then you should not be open about your faith. This would give fuel to the unsaved who say Christians are no different than non Christian.
Are there any circumstances under which we should perhaps not hide our faith but not be particularly demonstrative about it?
I think this is true in the workplace. People are hired to do a job and should give their full attention to it. This presents a non spoken witness. It is not a good witness to speak to others about your faith when you are supposed to be working. Breaks and mealtimes provide free time for discussions of this nature.
Can we always declare that our faith is what guides our decision-making no matter what the topic of conversation?
Yes, as long as what we are doing is a positive witness to our faith. When a Christian reacts to daily situations according to his/her faith it may cause others to ask why you behaved in that way. This provides an opportunity for the person to speak about their faith and how it guides them in their decision making.
Thank You Damon for doing this. I am hoping to participate in this study. It is very accessible.
ReplyDeleteNot as many respondants this week, perhaps not as exciting a topic as last week. I do like the responses we got however. Indeed it should not be in the DNA of a Christian to hold back their witness at any time or any place that is appropriate!
ReplyDeleteThe second respondant remonds us of a Biblcal directive to remember that we have people in authority over us (like a boss at work) and that we are expected to give our best. Time spent dwelling on evangelism instead of paying attention to flying the plane or pouring hot tar could lead to disasterous consequences!
That being said, our witness by action should be matched with our verbal witness whenever possible, as even athiests know how to act responsibly and with love, but not with the gospel of Jesus Christ in mind. Scripture tells us to be prepared at all times to give an account for the love of Christ that is in us. But it should be done to help people not to hinder them. Blessings to you all.
PS: Sorry for the lateness again - I forgot we were off today! New topic Tuesday by noon!