Subject: why should i bring people |
Bible Note: Kalos, Makarios, Tim: Might this be a case to be handled a little more gently? I get the impression this is a person who has just begun to attend a meeting. They seem to have asked him to bear a burden he is not able to bear. So he comes here for help. Can we help him? We may want to do more than to point out his duty, I think, for in so doing we may also be highlighting his inability to meet it. I am impressed that among Christians it is very easy to tell someone what he ought to do. It is more difficult, but necessary, to help them to do it. This person has apparently had experiences that taught him that other people do not care. Likely, he has had little experience with people caring for him. He asks, “why should i care about others, when they never cared for me ever!” Brothers, it is my impression that this person needs someone to care for him now. And maybe the Lord has led him to you. I suggest that you care for him, and make him feel cared for, instead of pointing out a dozen things for him to do. May God guide us. We do not know if this person is even saved? But he is seeking the Lord’s will. He attended a meeting. He is asking a question. He is revealing something of his past which shows a need. We give him passages to read and we don’t know of his reading capacity. And may I suggest that writing reflects reading? I know that you are trying to help this brother. I am only suggesting that you use a lighter touch. I am suggesting that our friend may not be ready for words such as “Be perfect", and "unwholesome talk” and “selfish ambition” and “vain conceit”. Perhaps we need to begin at a more elementary level. Remember what Paul said to the weak ones: “I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified“. I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say. And may the Lord give you wisdom in responding. |