“For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men” (1 Peter 2:15)
After a year of great popularity with the people, Jesus had to navigate the treacherous waters of opposition. We read that He “endured such contradiction of sinners against himself” (Heb. 12:3). The patience of Christ was exhibited in the face of unfounded accusations, blatant mischaracterizations, and outright slander.
In speaking the truth, Jesus was willing to be misunderstood. He was willing to be reckoned among the transgressors. But He was not willing to speak or do evil. He bore our sins in His own body. He endured grief, suffering wrongfully, and He took it patiently.
The Lamb of God calls those who would follow Him to be wise as serpents, but harmless like doves. There is no malice in the nature of God. Toward those who curse, blessing is returned. Prayer is offered for persecutors. Evil is overcome with good.
The church is at a crossroads in this day. As persecution ramps up, the witness of Christ must be seen in the way we respond to outrageous and unjustified evil. Yes, speak the truth – but always in love. Don’t let your good be evil spoken of by a spirit of retaliation. Remember, Saul of Tarsus might be in front of you, consenting to your death. Pray for him.