Each church’s insiders must treat outsiders well
Editor’s note: This is a reprint of an earlier column. Scripture reading: Matthew 16:13-20. Text: “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” Colossians 4:5.
“AND I (CHRIST) TELL YOU THAT YOU ARE PETER, AND ON THIS ROCK I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH …” Matthew 16:18.
According to the gospel writers, Jesus had used the word CHURCH only twice; once in our Scripture reading, see above, and in Matthew 18:17: “If he (a brother who sinned) refuses to listen to them (who admonish him), tell it to the church …”
Obviously, when our Lord spoke about the church, he could not make distinction between a denomination and a congregation; however, he charged the disciples to preach, teach, baptize and serve. Matthew 28:19-20 and Acts of Apostles 1:8. Apostle Paul was the first who not only preached the good news but also organized local congregations and guided them through troubled times. Please, read his letters, especially to Timothy and Titus. (Titus 1:5-9)
Christ, as well as the apostles, wanted the church (denominations and congregations) to grow and serve, be strong and pure. Please read Acts of Apostles 9:31, Ephesians 4:15, Colossians 2:19/b, 1 Peter 2:5.
BY NOW THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY – CONFERENCE – SYNOD IS OVER AND …
You, too, could have learned through the mass media that a denomination’s general assembly, synod, conference . . . or the council of the bishops’ meeting is over and the highest governing body of the respective denomination debated, dropped, postponed or agreed on certain issues.
The Christians wanted to let the world know what their opinion is concerning peace, marriage, poverty, injustice, foreign policy, minority groups, (immigration), mission; and they care about what is going on in the world. These decisions are intended to remind the leaders, appeal to the conscience of the public and solicit support from the faithful so that we can live in peace and happiness as well as follow our Master, and carry out our mission.
“BE WISE IN THE WAY YOU ACT TOWARD OUTSIDERS; MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY.”
Our text is one of the most suitable Bible quotations to justify our “Christian input” into the affairs of our society and country. See also Romans 1:8, Philippians 2:14-15, 1 Thessalonians 1:7-8.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE FAITHFUL? This challenges us to be equally strong as church members, congregations and denomination. We must admit that the mainline denominations have been losing members for years and even the biggest Protestant denomination cannot speak in the name of seven percent of the population. A small group cannot have a great impact.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR THE CHURCH LEADERS? The cooperation among the various denominations is important and the ecumenical movement should be further advanced. Not what separates us but what brings us together should be emphasized. While keeping our unique history, teachings and traditions alive, we have many things in common and can strive for mutual goals.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE “OUTSIDERS?” The dedication and commitment of the church members do not give privilege to anyone to set up high criteria for the faithful saying: “I will consider you a good Christian if you will please me.” For the faithful not a pat on the shoulder from an unchurched (outsider) but compliance with God’s teaching should count. “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy …” Colossians 2:8/a, and: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world …” Romans 12:2/a.
It is true that the Lord said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.” Mark 9:35. But our Lord also said, and it is equally valid, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness …” Matthew 6:33.
The Rev. Alexander Jalso is a retired United Presbyterian minister living in Brownsville.