Sincerity and Rebuke
When the Lord told His disciples about what was forthcoming there was much perplexity. Peter took this perplexity and, I would suggest, with much sincerity tried to alter the Lord’s approach (Matthew 16:21-22). The Lord was plain spoken in His reply (16:23).
Imagine you are Peter and you just received these hard words from the Lord. How would you reply?
Way too often preachers try to go through the back door in order to help a person learn a most valuable lesson. I suppose there might be some good reason (or reasons) for this occasionally.
Jesus did not go through the back door – He went right through the front door.
I think we can gain much from a consideration of this.
Eugene Adkins 6:54 am on June 20, 2012 Permalink |
I have an article or sermon on that scripture some where. The recorded situation also reminds me of when Paul said, “Have I become your enemy because I tell you the truth?” I believe you’re on to something that’s difficult to do sometimes, but still important.
Have a great day, Ron.
Ron Thomas 6:57 am on June 20, 2012 Permalink |
Yes, Eugene, the difficulty in application for some is great. Trying to find a balance between too hard and not hard enough is not always easy – not for me, at least.
Thanks, brother. The Lord’s best to you also.
J. Randal Matheny 7:49 am on June 20, 2012 Permalink |
How we shy away from confrontation and plain speech, even when called for and the need is obvious.