2 Timothy 2:23 Don't
have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they
produce quarrels.
I
love debating with other people. It’s part of my training as a pastor. At
seminary or university, candidates for ministry are taught apologetics through
class presentations or theological debates. The arguments usually spill over
into the canteen area and can get very heated at times. I guess when people are
really passionate about their beliefs, confrontation and conflict are
inevitable.
This
happens quite a lot on Facebook, too. Ever since I joined it, I've found myself
sucked in to various theological tussles and inter-church conflicts, which have
been quite severe at times. I wish that I could write that I have always kept
to the high ground and not become embroiled in fiery free-for-alls; the truth
is this: Facebook brings out the worst in me at times, and also among my
Christian friends.
So,
here’s what I'm doing for Lent: I am going to seriously attempt to give up
quarreling on Facebook. It’s so easy to get involved in a fight or write a
comment that does not help the situation. Now this won’t be simple for me
either, because I can be quite self-righteous and highly opinionated at times.
However, if the main purpose of Lent is to help me grow closer to Christ and
value His sacrifice, then perhaps avoiding negative belligerent comments and
making positive posts instead, may help me overcome this bad habit. And, in order
to enable me to be reminded of this commitment, I've taped today’s verse to my
laptop keyboard.
Perhaps
you may feel led to do the same thing as well. It’s better than giving up
chocolate or candy…J
Questions for personal reflection
How do I
interact with other people on social media sites? Do I honor Christ with my
comments and posts?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, from the Gospels You
taught about the consequences of careless words and thoughtless deeds. You
commanded us to love one another, including our enemies. Forgive us when our
foolish pride and strident stupidity diminishes our Christian witness before
other people. Help us to use this sacred season of Lent as a special time to
review what we write, post, and express in our emails and comments. In Your
Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.
John
Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If
you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to traqair@aol.com.
