THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 23:23-35
“The accusation had to do with questions about their law…” (Acts 23:29)
How does the world react when they see believers fighting among themselves.
I’ve been through seasons when churches were fighting and dividing.
Questions about “their law” (their views) led to some nasty words and actions.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples…” (John 13:35)
By what… what is the distinguishing mark of Jesus’s followers?
That we fight one another, that we argue and disagree and divide?
“That you love one another” (John 13:35), this is what sets us apart.
The same ought to be true for how we relate to people of other faiths.
We do not need to agree on everything, but we need to disagree with love.
I remember how one dividing church had to go to court to fight for assets.
How did this affect the judge and lawyers’ view of Jesus and His message?
Jesus came to save us from the world’s way of dealing with disagreement.
The Spirit of Jesus in us is urging us to handle differences differently, better.
The greatest virtue isn’t being right but being loving – may others see that in us!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, may our debates about “our law” never keep us from fulfilling Your law of love. May the world see Your better way through us.