Have we become too oversensitive to speaking out on what the Bible condemns?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: Should churches get involved in political issues? That seems to be all preachers talk about these days. On the other hand, in reading the history of our nation, I’ve been shocked to learn how pastors of the day were involved in community affairs pertaining to various issues of education and social issues. Have we become too oversensitive to speaking out on what the Bible condemns? – P.C.
A: The church of Jesus Christ has been given a distinctive and unique task in our world by God, and that is to proclaim the gospel of Christ. When we fail to do that, we are not doing what God has commanded, to “make disciples of all the nations, … teaching them” (Matthew 28:19–20, NKJV).
But we must be careful in discerning what is being preached. The Bible has a lot to say about moral and spiritual dimensions; we have a responsibility to speak for God’s truth. We may miss the fact that politicians have taken many subjects taught in the Scripture and made them political. Christians must take a stand on matters that are clearly taught in the Bible, without compromising the clear presentation of God’s message to lost souls.
When Christians bring the standards of Jesus Christ to bear upon life in a secular world, it is often resented. Our nation grew strong in an era when moral standards were emphasized, and it will grow weak when we condone that which we once condemned. Christians – not just pastors – need to take our place in society with moral courage to stand up for that which is right, just, and honorable.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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