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NASB | 1 Timothy 3:2 An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Timothy 3:2 Now an overseer must be blameless and beyond reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, |
Bible Question:
I think the President is making the tough decisions on Irag and I think Charles Stanley is one of the better TV evangelist. But in last Sunday's sermon Charles Stanley was using Bible verses to justify HIS opinions...ie... that war protesters are sinning against God and his commandments (Paul's honoring goverment etc). Is it right to use the Bible on such a sujective/political topic? Again, I personally think the President is doing the right thing but it is a very tough call and I wouldn't think of using the Bible against people who disagreed with me on such a topic. |
Bible Answer: I believe it is wrong to use scripture in the way you describe, i.e. to judge others. See Matthew 7:2. In my opinion, the highest test should be this: Does waging war with Iraq demonstrate love for God and love for others? See Matthew 22:37-40. A case can be made that it does and a case can be made that it doesn't. It depends entirely on the motives behind the actions, the contents of our hearts. If the President is lead by the Spirit to wage war in an effort to end tyranny and bring justice, peace and love to an oppressed people, then he should wage war. But he should do so in the most just and righteous way, including the occupation/rebuilding afterward. In this case, protestors would do well to examine what drives their actions. If protest is for selfish reasons or out of fear, then the peace they seek is not possible. On the other hand, if the President is driven by impure motives, such as arrogance, economic self-interest or revenge, then any actions taken would be made in vain, including efforts to wage peace. In this case, protesting his motives would be proper. Parable |