Imagine a world where our thoughts, words, and actions, were such a blessing that the world would be surprised when they found out we were Christians.

This was a post on our pastor’s Facebook page on Saturday of this week. I knew that it probably had something to do with our sermon for this morning, but I had a hard time wrapping my head around it. I didn’t have a problem at all with the first part, but “that the world would be surprised when they found out we were Christians” bothered me. It makes me sad that we have gotten the wrong idea of what Christians should act like.

The scripture for today was:

“Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”

Matthew 12:30

I know it’s been a rough couple of years and I know that with COVID, politics, and heated debates within our country have divided families, ended friendships, and caused people to leave the church.

What does it mean to be against Jesus? If we don’t follow his lead and love the way he loved, be compassionate, and forgiving like he lived, we certainly aren’t being “with him” are we?

“Whoever does not gather with me scatters”. Is that referring to not gathering with other Christians? If we aren’t in touch with Jesus in some way I’m concerned that our hearts will harden. I know how easy it is to get out of the habit of going to church. Once you miss a few weeks, it’s just hard to make yourself get out of bed in time to get ready for church on time. I’ve been there and fought that battle. I’m not really a morning person, but I hate being late, so I drag myself out in time to be there.

“And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”

Matthew 12: 31-32

The unforgiveable sin. The main ministry of the Holy Spirit is to testify of Jesus. But when that testimony is fully rejected, the Holy Spirit has been blasphemed and called Him a liar in respect to His testimony about Jesus. The religious leaders were close to do this.

We all have an opinion about something. But, it’s just an opinion that is a product of “group think”. Opinions divide and scatter. But each person’s witness is unique. My witness is based on my experience on how the Holy Spirit lives and guides my thoughts, words, and actions. Our witness shows the world what we think of Jesus.

Often times we make decisions based on immediate gratification. The example Jon, our pastor, used was of Esau giving up his birthright for a bowl of stew or porridge. He was hungry and getting his birthright was years away. But, we need to think more long term.

As Christians, we’ve been pretty good at tearing down, blaming others and never looking at the plank in our eye. It’s time we begin putting things back together. It’s Jesus’ job to build the church and he’s never stopped. It’s his church, not ours. Be a witness to others. Let your thoughts, actions and words reflect Christ.

Before you speak, post, judge, or act…think!

• Will this help me love God?
• Will this help me follow Jesus?
• Will this bear witness to the fruits of the Holy Spirit?
• Will my emotions be immersed in love?

In Faith,

Pam