I’m assuming this is about the latest news in our country….
And if this statement is supposed to be the blanket statement on how Christians should then react, I wholeheartedly disagree if so.
The problem with this idea is that we are making a disconnect between being the light, and being the stinging solvent. It is a nonsensical statement, because the scriptures never taught that disconnect. Instead we see a recurring theme: If we follow Christ, we will be hated. You are making it seem that we can be a light, without bringing evil into that light as exposition.
Making something lawful is seeing it as “good” So this aspect of NC’s marriage protection amendment/same sex marriage ban (i used both to be fair) is actually a response from those who hold to that idea. Granted, yes some may be Christians, and some may really just be ignorant, bigoted, unsaved people who have their hands deep in traditions. Therefore, it doesn’t change the fact that what we or they see as “good” is what chooses to manifest outward in our/their legislation. And if a Christian were to be consistent, it should manifest itself out in our daily life—-it’s not trying to serve some hostile purpose, but it is consistently following what one believes.
(Now the topic of following beliefs will take us off the subject—so I won’t go into that. In short I am upset that people can’t even hold to a differing a opinion, and how those who stick to consistent beliefs within a Biblical context are suddenly placed under double standards by a supposed “open minded” culture.)
As Christians, we must never create that break in the chain. Suppose we were to consider your proposal of being the light, sharing the gospel, and praying for God-given transformation. Okay, fair enough. But what entails from that? The gospel is a treacherous and offensive thing. Are we trying to sell them something? No. Knowing that, when presenting that gospel, we therefore include the repercussions of being horrifyingly persecuted for our beliefs…and more importantly…our proclaiming of those beliefs to others.
Now I do agree if we go into it for the purpose of trying to set rules on people who aren’t born of the Spirit, we are doing it wrong. However, if we go into it for the purpose of incorporating every thought and deed captive to Christ, I believe it is good and whole. Therefore, just because someone votes for mutual agreements that hold to Scripture does not make them saved. But, someone who is saved must vote under firm conviction of the Spirit what they believe to be lawful and good. This follows Philippians 4:8 well.
It’s not that we mean to be offensive for the sake of being offensive, but we are literally tied to our convictions and our consistency: that if what we believe is true, we must forsake everything else that doesn’t line up with it—-in every aspect of our lives. And Christ, being the main part of that worldview; He was a scandal all its own. We too, then must become that scandal. That, I dare say, is what it means to have our union with Christ.
This is a slippery slope you are treading, and it’d do you well to recall that the gospel cannot truly be extended, unless offense is included with it. We will always strive to be the light of the world, yes but at the same time, we will remain the nails on the chalkboard because of it. For whatever reason, whether in worldly judicial courts, or within the church. Not because we love the thrill of being hated (we aren’t sadomasochistic or something) but because God has made known his views, and we stick to it, ….or we don’t.
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