Shortly before I moved to Africa, while at a New York City film festival reception, actor Tim Robbins and I engaged in a substantive conversation. We discussed causes and effects of war, international human rights issues, and why Hollywood celebrities are more likely than professional athletes to publicly endorse or oppose various political leaders.
When the topic turned to religion, Tim asked me, “What exactly is a ‘conservative Christian’ anyway?” Tim’s question convicted me. It seems that in the eyes and understanding of many, the body of Christ may be doing a better job stating our moral and political positions than conveying with humility the life-changing message of Romans 3:23-25, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when He freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed His life, shedding His blood.”
How are our words, actions, and attitudes defining our faith and the gift of salvation that we have freely received through God’s grace? Are we—believers—free from quarreling and strife? (Isaiah 58:4). Are we helping to set the oppressed free and to care for the poor? (v.7). Has our light for Jesus dispelled the darkness that surrounds us? (v.10). Are we speaking and demonstrating the truth of the gospel in love? (1 Corinthians 13:1).
As followers of Christ, let’s ask God to show us how we can lovingly demonstrate what He has done for us and wants to do for all.
More:
Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days (Ephesians 5:16).
Next:
In what ways do your words and actions reveal God’s grace? How will you change to become a more winsome witness for Jesus?
Phileo on August 11, 2009 at 7:57 am
Tim Robbins does not engage in genuine debate. His sole purpose is to mock Christians. Feeling guilty about our faith in front of him is a waste of time.
tom felten on August 11, 2009 at 9:48 am
Roxanne, good thoughts. We can’t force someone to accept what we believe, but we can present—by word and action—God’s grace. Yes, Tim Robbins’ views on Christianity and many other issues appear to be far different than my own. But, as we speak the truth in love, using language that is “gracious and attractive” (Colossians 4:5-6), God can change the hearts and views of those who are far from Him.
leigh on August 11, 2009 at 10:34 am
Although I think Tim Robbins is a great actor, I don’t think I’ve EVER agreed with him politically. Yet, his question about “conservative Christians” to Roxanne seemed to be one of real curiosity asked of someone who allowed him to honestly voice it. Roxanne’s thoughts expressed ones that I’ve struggled with too. How can we show the love of Jesus—to non-believers and a suffering world without letting our strong political beliefs (in either direction) muddy the waters?
BTW, I found a pretty good excerpt from a speech a few years ago that made me think:
“Our ability to disagree, and our inherent right to question our leaders and criticize their actions define who we are. To allow those rights to be taken away out of fear, to punish people for their beliefs . . . is to acknowledge our democracy’s defeat. . . . There is a wave of hate that seeks to divide us — right and left, pro-war and anti-war. . . . Let us try to find our common ground as a nation. Let us celebrate this grand and glorious experiment that we have survived for [more than] 225 years. To do so we must honor and fight vigilantly for the things that unite us — like freedom, the First Amendment and, yes, baseball.”
That quote is from our friend, Tim Robbins– still works pretty well today, doesn’t it?. Hey, maybe we can find a starting point for good discussion after all!.:)
marcia.arumugam on August 12, 2009 at 10:00 am
I believe the kind of work we do today amongst Christians are great to share about Christ and revive our souls in the Lord. But how about the Non-Christians?
I feel I am still way behind in that area. Possibly because I fear they provoke my anger when they charge me with statements I don’t agree. Reason being, I am an emotional woman who can’t control when someone fires Christ My Lord.
I pray the Lord gives me strength to overcome all these emotional roller coaster that I may be bold to speak with kindness just like the disciples did. The disciples did such great job that I am so ashamed of myself.
I recently got into an argument with a Muslim when he tried to attack my faith on the Bible. It was this time that I did not know how to show kindness but rebelled and insulted his faith instead. That was so wrong and I apologised later on and told him that I can’t tolerate anything sensitive. It was tough indeed. I know Satan uses opportunities like these to test us on how we show love to the rest of the world.
Lord, teach and mould me to be good vessels for you. Amen