You are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel. (Gal. 1:6)
No one wants to be called a bigot or have it said that you are intolerant, but that is the charge current culture levels against Christians. The only Scripture known by many who oppose the biblical mandates held by Christians is “do not judge.” Caught up in the trap of wanting to be accepted, many people modify their gospel to be more religiously inclusive and to make allowance for the philosophy “My opinion is as valid as your opinion—and my way to God is as valid as your way to God.”
There are many philosophies and many religions, but there is only one gospel. Only the gospel of Jesus Christ contains the good news that reconciliation and fellowship with God are possible. And it is offered freely to those who will accept it by faith. You don’t have to be born into the right nationality, family, or gender. You don’t need the ability to go to a special place or do some special thing. The gospel message is simple. Maybe that is a problem to some—it is too simple, so they add some requirements that seem right to them.
There is only one gospel. To believe that does not mean you are a bigot, intolerant, or inconsiderate of others. Inviting them to join you in a better way is not a judgmental, but a loving thing to do.
Practice the fine art of being unyielding to truth while extending love.
Ken Heer was an ordained minister with The Wesleyan Church, prior to his death in 2016. He served as a pastor, educator, and church leader for more than fifty years.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
