What does it involve in practical terms? There is plenty of talk about living a God-pleasing life but sometimes the specifics are in short supply.
John the baptist was very clear about details when asked:
"And the crowds were questioning him, saying, "Then what shall we do?" And he would answer and say to them, "The man who has two tunics is to share with him who has none; and he who has food is to do likewise." And some tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, "Teacher, what shall we do?" And he said to them, "Collect no more than what you have been ordered to." Some soldiers were questioning him, saying, "And what about us, what shall we do?" And he said to them, "Do not take money from anyone by force, or accuse anyone falsely, and be content with your wages." ( Luke 3:10-14 )
Getting too specific puts us in danger of rigid legalism, but generalities leave us without clear direction. John emphasized specifics that serve as valuable guides for all of us. He emphasized material sharing, fairness in business dealings, and restraint from assertive force and false accusations.
It's interesting that what John prescribed for holy living is well summarized in the famous Golden Rule: "treat people the same way you want them to treat you" ( Matthew 7:12 ).
The standards for holy living are the same, regardless of our vocation, background, geographic location, etc, Be perfectly fair in all dealings with all people. Refrain from strong-arm tactics in asserting influence. Be certain of facts regarding statements made about others.
The truths of the Bible that we are resolutely convinced of are validated or nullified in these areas of practical living. No matter how passionately we declare our faith in Jesus and the message of the kingdom of God, our conduct toward others becomes the final test of truth.
I once had a supervisor in a factory job who was in leadership in a local church. He was quick to hand out Bible tracts and make others aware of his role in the church, but the words of other co-workers soon told another story. He was a harsh, dictatorial boss with little respect and credibility in their eyes. His lifestyle negated his message and witness.
Who we are around others is the true test of our faith and doctrine. May they both be in harmony as the Lord desires.
Steve
John the baptist was very clear about details when asked:
"And the crowds were questioning him, saying, "Then what shall we do?" And he would answer and say to them, "The man who has two tunics is to share with him who has none; and he who has food is to do likewise." And some tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, "Teacher, what shall we do?" And he said to them, "Collect no more than what you have been ordered to." Some soldiers were questioning him, saying, "And what about us, what shall we do?" And he said to them, "Do not take money from anyone by force, or accuse anyone falsely, and be content with your wages." ( Luke 3:10-14 )
Getting too specific puts us in danger of rigid legalism, but generalities leave us without clear direction. John emphasized specifics that serve as valuable guides for all of us. He emphasized material sharing, fairness in business dealings, and restraint from assertive force and false accusations.
It's interesting that what John prescribed for holy living is well summarized in the famous Golden Rule: "treat people the same way you want them to treat you" ( Matthew 7:12 ).
The standards for holy living are the same, regardless of our vocation, background, geographic location, etc, Be perfectly fair in all dealings with all people. Refrain from strong-arm tactics in asserting influence. Be certain of facts regarding statements made about others.
The truths of the Bible that we are resolutely convinced of are validated or nullified in these areas of practical living. No matter how passionately we declare our faith in Jesus and the message of the kingdom of God, our conduct toward others becomes the final test of truth.
I once had a supervisor in a factory job who was in leadership in a local church. He was quick to hand out Bible tracts and make others aware of his role in the church, but the words of other co-workers soon told another story. He was a harsh, dictatorial boss with little respect and credibility in their eyes. His lifestyle negated his message and witness.
Who we are around others is the true test of our faith and doctrine. May they both be in harmony as the Lord desires.
Steve
posted by steve @ 10:21 AM
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