I realize that it must seem obvious that those who follow
Christ must not be guilty of being criminals in the sense of murder, theft, or
violence. If we look at what goes on in Ephesus
whilst Paul is there we see something altogether different.
The merchants in Ephesus who sold statues of the goddess
Artemis were fearful of their income being hurt by the growing faith in
Christ. Of secondary concern was that
the temple would no longer be respected.
They tried to raise a rabble against the men who were teaching about
Jesus.
The men were known in the city and city officials made it
clear that the men were not criminals.
On this alone these Christ followers were set free. It was their good reputation as lawful men
that protected them. Of note is the statement
that they had “said noting against Artemis.”
When I think of how often Christians rail against other
faiths it saddens me. I am sure that my
energy is to be directed toward showing and speaking the love of Christ. God can defend himself. When others have a faith that is not mine it
is not my place to demean or insult them or their beliefs.
If I show love and generosity my words will carry weight
when I speak of the love and generosity of Christ. If I argue and insult then I blemish the
validity of my words when I speak of Christ’s love. Christians are too guilty of attacking others
for what they believe instead of loving them where they are and living out the
Gospel.
We must live within the law and be men and women of good
repute. Then we earn the right to be
heard. There is no force greater than
love for Christ. It is enough if I let
it be enough.
Wishing you joy in the journey,
Aramis Thorn
Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer
who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home
owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure
store."
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