Reflecting on John 18:19-24“If I said something wrong, testify as to what is wrong. But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?” (John 18:23)
Jesus is not opposed to having a sensible discussion or debate.
He was not against reasonable challenges to what He said or did.
“Come, let reason together” (Isaiah 1:18), but don’t resort to violence.
Have you noticed how people (including us) become antagonistic when they disagree.
They will often resort to verbal or physical attacks, rather than reasoned responses.
Debating Jesus would be hard, given that He is the way, the truth and the life!
Yet Jesus does not want me us to be afraid of bringing our thoughts to Him.
Be honest, share your fears or doubts or opinions… but don’t resort to violence.
Thankfully Jesus is “the truth in love” and graciously takes our abusive accusations.
They are not healthy or helpful for us, but He knows our weakness and insecurity.
We need to be prepared for abusive responses when we speak truth too.
We should speak the truth wrapped in love, with gentleness and respect.
In the end it is not ‘truth’ that changes minds, but grace.
Arguments or apologetics can put people on the defensive, but grace softens hearts.
Grace, not force, is how we will win over confused or misguided minds.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, You graciously welcome my perspectives, even when I do not express them graciously. Soften my heart and change my heart with grace, and season my words and actions with grace, so that others may be won over by grace too.