So well said. Dozens of times I have left a church service feeling beaten down because, as an introvert, people scare me and I do not feel like winessing is my gift. I am not a soul winner. I just want to live a quiet life, work with my hands, love others, love God, create beauty, refute evil. All that keeps me very busy.
Thank you. Yes, totally understand. I was always more of an introvert and felt guilty when I did not force an opportunity to ‘witness’ to others. Once I came to realize that we were not responsible to specifically force our faith on others, but the Holy Spirit was the one that did that, I could enjoy being around others and let the conversation, or time spent, be natural and without ulterior motives. I feel our actions and love for others is more of a witness to God’s love than any words we could speak.
Yes, I really like that. Anyone can say words, but it is their actions that speak loudest. Another one by Brad Jersak is: the Word of God is infallible, inerrant, and totally inspired. And when He was about 18, He grew a beard.
This feels like the most radical Christian move of all: mind your business, love people well, and stop acting like the Holy Spirit needs a PR intern. I love the quiet confidence here. Live the hope, don’t heckle with it. If faith has to be forced, it’s probably not faith doing the work anyway.
Amazing article on our values as Christians, but I have to ask a few questions. I have to ask about speaking out against abuse in and outside of the church community whether it be from a parent, neighbor, co-worker, and even fellow church member. What about adoption, the misuse of Scriptures, and inclusion?
I feel like everyone has an image made from God (Genesis 1:27), and that experience is a major part of how we share about God in our lives.
I just want you know your opinion, and am open to learning about your views.
Hi and thanks for writing. By the way, thanks for reading my article. First, I believe we should speak out about any kind of abuse when we see an issue. Sadly, I think to often, especially within the church, people try to cover it up and work things out on their own. Second, not sure what you are asking about adoption, but I believe adoption is great. There seem to be so many children that need homes and adoption fulfills that and also helps with the abortion issue. Third, unfortunately it is very common to misuse scripture. People try to force people to make decisions and choices based on their interpretation of the Bible. Many Bible verses have been mistranslated and words changed to try and prove a certain way of looking at things. We need the guidance and wisdom of the Spirit within us to see past these mistakes. Fourth, I believe very much in inclusion. Inclusion of women within the church, inclusion and acceptance of those from the LGBTQ family, inclusion of race, nationality, different religions, sex and gender identity. We are all made in the image of God and are loved by God. We should be loving and kind also. I hope that helps a little. Thanks again for writing.
If I understand right, you are asking if churches push for only Christian adoption services so the kids aren't put in unChristian homes. And I do think a lot of churches feel that way. Especially when they fight adoption rights for those of the LGBTQ family. I personally think there are a lot of homes that are not necessarily 'Christian' that are more than qualified to provide a safe, loving home to children that need it.
So well said. Dozens of times I have left a church service feeling beaten down because, as an introvert, people scare me and I do not feel like winessing is my gift. I am not a soul winner. I just want to live a quiet life, work with my hands, love others, love God, create beauty, refute evil. All that keeps me very busy.
Thank you. Yes, totally understand. I was always more of an introvert and felt guilty when I did not force an opportunity to ‘witness’ to others. Once I came to realize that we were not responsible to specifically force our faith on others, but the Holy Spirit was the one that did that, I could enjoy being around others and let the conversation, or time spent, be natural and without ulterior motives. I feel our actions and love for others is more of a witness to God’s love than any words we could speak.
I like where your stack is heading. We may share the same outlook. For instance, see my post at
https://thomasjefferycarter.substack.com/p/what-john-saw-the-gospel-of-the-spirit?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=1up3ap
Update: I just read your article and thought it was very good. Totally agree. Thanks for the link.
Thank you. I will check it out.
I think it was John Wesley who said: preach the gospel everywhere you go; use words if necessary.
Yes, I really like that. Anyone can say words, but it is their actions that speak loudest. Another one by Brad Jersak is: the Word of God is infallible, inerrant, and totally inspired. And when He was about 18, He grew a beard.
This feels like the most radical Christian move of all: mind your business, love people well, and stop acting like the Holy Spirit needs a PR intern. I love the quiet confidence here. Live the hope, don’t heckle with it. If faith has to be forced, it’s probably not faith doing the work anyway.
Yes, thank you for the comment. You put it so well.
Amazing article on our values as Christians, but I have to ask a few questions. I have to ask about speaking out against abuse in and outside of the church community whether it be from a parent, neighbor, co-worker, and even fellow church member. What about adoption, the misuse of Scriptures, and inclusion?
I feel like everyone has an image made from God (Genesis 1:27), and that experience is a major part of how we share about God in our lives.
I just want you know your opinion, and am open to learning about your views.
S.R. Oliver
Hi and thanks for writing. By the way, thanks for reading my article. First, I believe we should speak out about any kind of abuse when we see an issue. Sadly, I think to often, especially within the church, people try to cover it up and work things out on their own. Second, not sure what you are asking about adoption, but I believe adoption is great. There seem to be so many children that need homes and adoption fulfills that and also helps with the abortion issue. Third, unfortunately it is very common to misuse scripture. People try to force people to make decisions and choices based on their interpretation of the Bible. Many Bible verses have been mistranslated and words changed to try and prove a certain way of looking at things. We need the guidance and wisdom of the Spirit within us to see past these mistakes. Fourth, I believe very much in inclusion. Inclusion of women within the church, inclusion and acceptance of those from the LGBTQ family, inclusion of race, nationality, different religions, sex and gender identity. We are all made in the image of God and are loved by God. We should be loving and kind also. I hope that helps a little. Thanks again for writing.
I was hoping to ask if churches often see adoption as being saved from an inferior culture because of how we Americanize Christianity.
If I understand right, you are asking if churches push for only Christian adoption services so the kids aren't put in unChristian homes. And I do think a lot of churches feel that way. Especially when they fight adoption rights for those of the LGBTQ family. I personally think there are a lot of homes that are not necessarily 'Christian' that are more than qualified to provide a safe, loving home to children that need it.