In the 7th chapter of Luke’s gospel narrative, we are given the account of how a Pharisee named Simon was gracious to Jesus Christ, inviting Him into his home and serving Him a meal The account begins with verse 36 and concludes with verse 50. What is interesting about this account is how apparently insulting Jesus Christ was to this man who played His host, telling him, “I entered into your house, you gave me no water for my feet…Thou gave me no kiss…My head with oil you did not anoint.” He then spoke of how little love He was shown by Simon, His host.
On another occasion, Jesus Christ told a group of Pharisees, “You are of your father, the devil.” Pretty insulting words those, huh? But we do a man no favor when we ignore his deceptions and speak nothing but smooth and comforting words to him.
How many pastors tailor their Sunday message to their audience. If they know in their congregation they have two abortion doctors and several nurses who daily assist with abortions, are they going to call a spade a spade and say what the Bible really says about the murderous practice of abortion? If they are true representatives of Jesus Christ, they will say what God says on any given matter. If they can’t bring themselves to speak the words of their Lord, His prophets and apostles forthrightly and clearly – and in love – they need to get a job at Walmart or teach mathematics at the local high school or anything other than presenting themselves as representatives of Jesus Christ.
Two Mormon ladies visited me some years ago, introducing themselves as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I could have been super gracious to them and placated them, telling them, “Well you dear sisters serve the Lord in your fashion and are evidently faithful children of heavenly Father just like myself.” I didn’t. I stopped them short, telling them, “You are NOT the church of Jesus Christ.” I did not spit out the words in anger, red-faced and clenching my fists. I just corrected them boldly and in unmistakable language. Were they insulted? Perhaps, I don’t know. But they were given pause to THINK. If the only service I ever render to the Most High is to get folks to THINK, then I shall be satisfied with my service. I believe the Lord will be satisfied as well.
Christ’s Faithful Servant (Galatians 1:10-12),
Donald Wiley