108 - Dan - “You're becoming judgmental, self-righteous, and unloving.”
“Dan and I traded text messages back and forth about our disagreement on Louie Giglio and Christian Counseling. My recording to him had the following themes:
1. The dangers of easy believism and the importance of a genuine faith
2. The importance of discernment and recognizing the fruits of deception
3. The challenge of confronting sin and the accusations that may follow
4. The need for separation from compromise and false teaching
5. The importance of holding fast to the truth of God’s Word”
When Confronting Sin Leads to Accusations of Self-Righteousness
Modern Christianity often presents a distorted view of love, suggesting that acceptance and tolerance require overlooking sin and compromise. However, true love, as demonstrated by Jesus, demands a commitment to truth and holiness. "Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you" (2 Corinthians 6:17). This call to holiness is not a judgmental or self-righteous stance, but an expression of love for God and a desire to see others walk in the freedom that comes from obedience to His Word.
Confronting sin, even within the church, can be met with accusations of being judgmental, self-righteous, or unloving. This is a tactic of the enemy to silence those who stand for truth. Remember, even Jesus was accused of being a "friend of tax collectors and ‘sinners’" (Matthew 11:19) because He challenged the religious leaders of His day. The Apostle Paul publicly confronted Peter for his hypocrisy (Galatians 2:11-14). These examples demonstrate that speaking truth, even when it's uncomfortable, is an act of love.
The fruit of a person's life reveals the true nature of their faith. "A tree is recognized by its fruit" (Matthew 12:33). Discernment is essential to recognizing the subtle deceptions that can lead us astray. Be wary of those who preach a message that tickles the ears but compromises the truth. "But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:3).
The call to holiness requires separation from compromise and false teaching. "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14). Unity around a lie, is not unity and we must protect our hearts and minds from the influence of those who would lead us away from the truth.
Stand firm on the truth of God's Word. Do not be swayed by the accusations of those who would compromise with the world. "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). Embrace the challenge of living a holy life, and trust that the Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth.
