1st.Corinthians 15:3-4 "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:"
When sharing the truth of the Gospel, Christians today have a tendency to water down the good news in an effort to make it less offensive to mankind. To one degree, we can appreciate this desire not to offend. To another degree, however, the attempt to dilute the Gospel has serious ramifications, some of which actually entail an alteration of the message itself. This can lead to a "false gospel," which Paul describes as no gospel at all since it has no power to save anyone (Galatians 1:6-7 pictured above). At the other end of the spectrum are those who embrace the true Gospel but who present it in a way that deeply offends. Their presentation can actually stand as a barrier to the listener. They sometimes revel in their brashness and pseud-boldness.
As Christians, we must embrace a biblical approach -- one that recognizes the offensiveness of the Gospel yet the simultaneous need to share it in a non-offensive way (as much as this is possible). Paul asked for prayer that he would declare the truth "as I ought to speak" (Colossians 4:4), adding, "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man" (Colossians 4:6). The LORD JESUS urged HIS disciples to be "wise as serpents, and harmless as doves" (Matthew 10:16 pictured above). We need to understand that the Gospel message is, indeed, offensive, but we cannot and must not water it down or change it. Yet, at the same time, we can present it in a manner that the HOLY SPIRIT will be able to use it to convict the sinner rather than in a way that is a barrier to the cause of CHRIST. In this series of 8 posts, we will consider the truth of an offensive Gospel and then see how we can share it biblically and effectively. MDC
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
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