Dear Christian,
I almost hate to use that term, Christian, simply because of the negative connotations it receives in today’s society. Christians are seen as judgmental, condescending, or “holier than thou.” They aren’t usually described as great lovers of all mankind, but I wish they could be.
As it stands some Christians are partially, if not completely responsible for any poor reputation that the religion may have, and that’s why I write to you now. Although you cannot change the opinion of all, my hope is that you would overall desire to be a light to those you encounter. To give Christianity a good name.
I normally try to keep my mouth shut, to stay positive. I always desire to speak encouragement, but sometimes I just have to speak up for truth. Like now.
You see, my friend, you are wrong. You are failing, and though Christians, and people in general struggle all the time, all over the world, that fact doesn’t excuse your behavior. The problem is you’re making it worse. You’re making people flounder more, and I’m afraid your actions might actually be a stumbling block to those around you.
I’ll try to explain. You see, it’s your take on those around you, your view of others that’s causing a ruckus. And though it might not be your intention, I would like you to open your eyes to the way you are making others struggle. In fact, you’re giving Christianity a bad rep.
When you speak out of emotion, without forethought, your words likely end up being a weapon. They cut, and they wound.
And though you might speak sometimes with a justified, righteous anger, I would ask you to weigh the purpose of your words. If they are only serving your own hurt feelings then you are wrong.
If you find yourself speaking ill of another, especially a stranger then it really only paints you in a bad light. If you make fun of someone because they’re not as pretty, smart, or well-off as yourself then you speak vainly. And you only serve self, with the added bonus of making Christians appear cruel, like a bully on the playground of life.
If you find yourself speaking judgement publicly, or even privately, without the purpose of helping the person who has fallen short then you are a disgrace to the family of Christ. Has He not instructed us all on judgment?
If you point out the indiscretion of another I want you to look inside yourself and ask “for what purpose am I bringing this to light?” Is it simply to make yourself feel more holy?!
Have you forgotten the pit of sin and despair from which Christ rescued you?
Are you yourself without sin?
I wonder do your words build up the body of Christ, or bring them down?
Do your words cause people who do not know Jesus to want to learn more? If your words don’t draw people to Him then you need to learn a new language. A love language.
More importantly, do your actions replicate the words that pour out of your mouth? Do you both speak kindness and treat others kindly?
You cannot preach love for your fellow man, but then turn your back on them when they need you the most.
Are you consistent? Are you always “in Christ,” or only when it’s convenient? When people see you do they see Jesus, or do they see a hypocrite?
Are your words and your actions seasoned with love? Would someone in trouble feel confident to come to you for help? Or would they fear your condemnation?
What about your gossiping? Guilty, huh? Really, what purpose does it serve? About as much as making fun of someone I would guess.
Is Satan using you to defile the family name?
And though the world may expect our perfection that can never be (as only The Lord is perfect), should we not strive anyway to be the best we can be for His sake?
Does this step on your toes? Does it hit a little too close to home? Does it convict your heart?
I hope so.
Because I see you. I see you every day. When I look in the mirror, you look back. You are me, and sometimes we fail. Sometimes we give Christianity a bad name, and we push people away from God’s open arms.
Phillipians 3:12-14
12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
I want you to know this, though. God loves you anyway, but He desires more of His child than what you currently represent. Don’t give up simply because you have messed up. Instead use it as a catalyst for change, a source of encouragement so you may then encourage others.
After all, that’s why we’re here.
Sincerely,
Your Concerned Self
greg says
A big amen
Whitney says
I really needed this today. Thank you!
Jasmine @ Heart in Formation says
Thanks for sharing this… Christianity has such a bad name as you say….from “Christians” not acting/doing right (understatement), to so much bad (understatement) done in His Name…we’re in trouble, because judgement starts at the House first…and we recall, the one time God “flipped” while walking on earth was in His Own House (the temple). We should be on fire to help the poor, feed the hungry, visit the sick and imprisoned (“as much as you did for the least of these, you did it for Me”) ….not protest and picket funerals and clinics and courthouses….
it’s so bad Jesus Himself is getting a New Name (Rev 3:12).
Keep your heart burning with His Love…it’s so crazy I find it not only ruffles my own feathers, but those even in the church. But that was characteristic of Jesus–ruffling feathers in the “church.”
Love to you from Holland, thanks again!
Jasmine
brieann.rn@gmail.com says
Thank you.