Jesus modeled influence effectively. Although some of the “so-called” religious
people felt his influence was being jeopardized when he spent time with the
“less than” people. In Luke 5:27-32 there is a conversation with “religious”
people and Jesus’ disciples about who Jesus was associating himself with. They
asked, “Why do you eat and drink with such scum?” Jesus quick on his feet shot
back, “healthy people don’t need a doctor, sick people do.”
Christians have an opportunity to demonstrate values that will influence our
communities for the greater good. In reading many surveys, without exemption,
the overwhelming view of non-churched people felt that Christians are
judgmental, hypocritical, old fashioned, and way too involved in church
politics. I’m sure some can and will argue the perceptions non-churched people
have of those of us who call ourselves Christians. Is it fair, maybe not, but
could there be some truth to how they perceive us? Absolutely!
It is amazing to me that Christians can work together at their jobs. Attend
little league to watch their children play baseball. Cheer in the stands
together for the local high school football team. Eat together in restaurants
and have cookouts with their neighbors in their backyards. But come Sunday
morning, it becomes the most segregated time of the week. There are some
streets in communities that have at least two of the same type of church
because one thinks they are more right than the other. Or, we have churches
splitting over silliness, so they start another church across town. What does
this kind of behavior convey to the non-churched person? How are we as
Christians able to influence our communities for the greater good if we cannot
get along ourselves?
Our communities need Jesus followers who are committed to living a consistent
spiritual life. Our communities need Christians who are bent on demonstrating
behaviors that are godly, holy, and right. Our communities need to see
consistency among Christians. They must see love demonstrated toward each other
regardless of their philosophies about salvation. Our communities need to see
unity between each Christian and not an “I’m the only one right” Christian
mentality.
The best way to influence others is by living like Jesus. When we influence
Jesus’ way we will…
Be positive – Philippians 2:14, Do everything without arguing or complaining.
Be a builder – Ephesians 4:29, Build up others according to their needs.
Be kind – Galatians 5:22, Kindness is a bi-product of a Spirit controlled life.
Be friendly – 1 Peter 4:9, Offer up hospitality.
Be lovers – 1 Peter 1:22, Love deeply from the heart.
No theology or doctrine matters if our positive influence isn’t there to back
it up!
Remember, Be God Controlled!
Brian