Quote:
Originally Posted by Peter Debelak
.... In response to that, most of us will say, "The difference is, I happen to be RIGHT!" And so it goes, on and on... So how do we stop it? How often, despite genuine conviction, are we able to "turn the other cheek"?
I like both my cloak and my tunic. What must transpire before I can be willing to give them both up?
Really, how do we stop this? ...
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Peter,
I don't see the "I happen to be RIGHT!" attitude as much as "You happen to be WRONG!" I may
think I'm right, but show me where I'm wrong, or show me where I'm "off". Show me in the Bible. If I'm not making my point, ask questions. If I quote a verse that you don't believe supports my theory, ask me to explain.
It's not about turning the other cheek. It's about communication. It may get heated, but that's not a bad thing. As long as the goal is to learn something and/or hear God's word to us, I think we'll be fine. As long as our goal is to understand the point the other person is trying to make, we'll be fine.
It's important to be open to the possibility that you/I/we/Christians can be deceived in our convictions. I have a track record of being deceived. I admit that. I didn't like finding out I was in the fog for 15 years. I've been praying lately for some folks, and my prayer has been "Lord, open their eyes." I've realized something in the process, and have begun to pray also, "Lord, open my eyes, too."
Another goal of mine is simply to be heard. I don't expect everyone to line up behind me and agree, but I would like to be heard...accurately. I would like for people to
listen. Restate if you must, but make sure you restate accurately. The way you know if you've restated my point accurately is to ask.
Recently, I believe it was Toledo, repeated the "here I stand" proclamation of Martin Luther. There are matters in the holy scriptures where we must take such a stand. Specifically, the matters of the faith once given, which is where Martin Luther was drawing the line.
There are also matters where we must
not take such a stand. I think almost every other topic, other than the faith once given, might fall into this category. I remain convinced about a lot of things. However, I've also had my eyes opened about my former convictions, and been persuaded to give up my beloved cloak and tunic. At such times, I realize once again that
I don't know everything, but I worship the God who does.
The painful process of learning to communicate to the point of understanding breaks down...especially in a forum type environment such as this. I hope this provides somewhat of an answer to your questions. As long as the goal is to communicate, we go forward until we learn how. Perhaps the best way is for each one to "speak the truth in love" and give each other the benefit of the doubt that they are trying to do the same.
Nell
PS: One more thing! (Sorry.) To say the equivalent of "that's not true" isn't good enough. What's not true? On what do you base your statement? Chapter and verse. :-)