HOW WE TAKE OUR STAND
When Biblical Truth Is Being Altered.
Let’s say we’re in a situation where Biblical truth is being shifted and debated to the point where the church is at risk. We know we must take a stand and we’ve prepared ourselves spiritually to take that stand. But how do go about taking that stand?
What should a stand for Biblical truth look like?
“22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.” (2 Tim. 2:22-25)
First Year Bible College
If there’s one thing I remember very clearly from my first year in Bible College, it’s a bunch of us guys hanging out in the dorm, debating about every thing under the sun.
We could be debating which fast food chain has the best burgers, or where the line fell between the Sovereignty of God and the Free Will of Man.
Even though we had given our lives to Jesus; moreover, had a deep desire to learn more about Scripture, the evil desires of our youth led us into many foolish discussions and stupid arguments. These of course, often led to hurt feelings and resentment.
When I read verse 22 and 24 of 2 Timothy 2, that’s what comes to my mind. And this is not how we should take a stand.
“…kind to everyone…“
Instead, when we have to take a stand, here’s how it should work:
According to Paul, we should “…pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace…” We should “…be kind to everyone…” and be “…able to teach…“
These verses are describing someone who is worth listening to, someone worth following. These verses are describing a person is known for good character and kindness and a teachable spirit.
If we really want to take a stand on a particular injustice or false teaching, we have to strive for these qualities. And this isn’t just about the local church; this applies to the Western church or even the global church if the Lord should grant us that opportunity.
A Word On Social Media
By the way, if you’re wondering, all these principles apply for taking a social media stand as well! Just because we’re looking at a screen instead of someone’s face, doesn’t mean we can ignore Biblical principle.
Christians in Facebook-fights over philosophy and ideology aren’t helping Jesus, and certainly aren’t helping the church.
Opponents
And as the last two verses of 2 Timothy 2 tell us that taking a stand for Biblical truth is worth it.
“25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” (2 Tim. 2:25-26)
Opponents can be gently instructed with the cooperation of the Holy Spirit, they can come to their senses.
Taking a stand in the right ways with the right heart condition, leaning on God’s strength, following God’s action plan, can bring our lost brothers and sisters to repentance and back on the road of truth.
