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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
Although we are called to be holy (1 Peter 1:15,16) and perfect (Matthew 5:48), we are never said to be better than anyone – simply better than we were before. We are said to be saints (Colossians 1:12), a title we should aspire to while recognizing we are yet sinners (1 John 1:8) saved by grace. (Ephesians 2:8,9) That is where our distinctiveness is derived; as people who don't always get it absolutely right but who know the difference between right and wrong by virtue of our association with Jesus Christ, striving to do our best as defined by Him in His word. Distinctiveness defined as: not alike, separate, individual, clearly marked, well-defined – unmistakable. Those achieving distinctiveness do so regardless of risk, circumstance or consequences, "…he who stands firm to the end…" Matthew 10:22
Two comments appearing in an article by Joel Belz, published by World Magazine F1 speak to this issue. He noted how the "art" of distortion has become prevalent in both political parties, especially at election time; not just to smear an opponent but to dilute the differences between them, camouflaging their true ideologies in an attempt to broaden their appeal. (Distortion defined as twisting out of shape, modifying so as to produce an unfaithful reproduction, misrepresentation.) He continues by correctly pointing out the church's tendency to do the same thing, "We have shown more zeal for discovering points of common interest with our culture than for highlighting crucial points of difference." Spending, "…whole life-times making the Kingdome of God culturally relevant,…"; over-looking the fact that the Kingdom won't be relevant to disinterested, unrepentant, unsaved people.
Let me quickly point out that I realize we are all alike in our need of a Savior (Isaiah 53:6) – we are all sinners (Romans 3:10,3:23), having fallen to a host of temptations common to people everywhere (1 Corinthians 10:13), needing help overcoming the difficulties of life. (John 16:33) But how we approach life and handle the difficulties of temptation should be demonstrably different as a result of our relationship with Christ. (See Matthew 5-6-7 and Romans 12:9-21) While never conveying a holier-than-thou attitude (Matthew 7:1,2) we must nevertheless be discerning, refraining from making excuses for bad behavior in ourselves or others. There is no harm in making our appeal to society in a culturally sensitive, inoffensive manner; yet the message must stay the same as it was presented by God and his agents throughout history. (1 Peter 1:10-12, Acts 17:2,3) In fact, making people comfortable is not our responsibility nor should it be our goal; not wanting people to feel threatened by our presence but uncomfortable in their present state. As such, we must be able and willing to guide and persuade them to seek that which can create them anew (2 Corinthians 5:17,20); doing so graciously (1 Peter 3:15) and honestly (1 Corinthians 16:13,14) in a compelling manner. (1 Timothy 1:7)
The worldview of the unbeliever and that of the Christian can be nothing but different – even diametrically opposed. (1 John 2:15-17) We have no business disguising or softening those differences with the trappings of the world. (Romans 12:2) Jesus dealt with this subject in a number of ways on more than one occasion. He declared himself to be the light of the world (John 8:12) drawing attention to his words and lifestyle. In assigning us that same responsibility, he challenged us to never hide or dampen that light, instead encouraging us to find ways to magnify it onto others; enhancing their vision while exposing evil. (Matthew 5:14-16, John 1:5,3:19) In referring to us as the salt of the earth, he further calls on us to be the spice of life, adding distinctive "flavor", preserving the food to be consumed (Matthew 5:6 – God's word) as well as the consumer of that food; cleansing and purifying when necessary. (Matthew 5:13 and 1 John 1:5-7)
Paul assured us that, "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" 2 Corinthians 5:17 This echoed Christ's analogy of his followers pronounced uniqueness, wherein he pointed out the uselessness of using new cloth to patch an old garment, the ruining of both being the result as well as the waste of new wine being poured into old wineskins. (Mark 2:21,22 and Luke 5:36-39) This separation of new from old will often instigate conflict and disagreements, through which we can seek to find common ground. But at times we must unequivocally disagree – hopefully in an agreeable manner – standing firm in who we are called to be in Christ, regardless whether that is understood or appreciated. "All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved." Matthew 10:22 Yet, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own...., you do not belong to the world… I have chosen you out of the world. That's why the world hates you… No servant is greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also." John 15:18-20 (See also John 18:36) Not wanting us to be taken unaware, Jesus warned us beforehand as a means of solace and as an opportunity for preparing ourselves in advance to remain faithful in difficult situations. "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. (Or as Paul verified, "…everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ will be persecuted." 2 Timothy 3:12) But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
We must stand firm, we can be courageous; which will take strength of character and a thorough understanding of God and His word. That may make us appear radical, but is that really so bad? For radical properly defined can be: a fundamental component derived from a source – extreme as in extremely thorough. "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7 "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do(ing) everything in love." 1 Corinthians 16:13,14 Manifesting these qualities in your life will make you distinctive in every way; to God's glory and the benefit of everyone around you.
Footnotes:
F1 Joel Belz – Breaking The Election Cycle, World Magazine, July 31,2004
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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