by M.D. House @real_housemd
None of us is perfect. All of us need correction (some of us more often than others). Without it, we would stop learning and improving, and even begin regressing. Such has been the case throughout the history of mortal mankind.
Our eternal adversary seeks every way possible to hinder and reverse our eternal progress. That includes inspiring a pernicious atmosphere within Western societies of extreme tolerance … what some have called “toxic empathy.” In essence, if someone tries to correct you, or argue against a moral position you have adopted, you should feel offended, even angry, and treat that person as if they have done violence to you.
Nothing could lead us further from wisdom and happiness.
Our Savior faced exactly the same reactions throughout his earthly ministry. He famously said, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” (Matthew 10:34) He knew his teachings would cause controversy, even among families, but his commandments aren’t just to be discussed in polite company, they are to be obeyed. Diligently. Even if they seem difficult. Natural consequences always follow disobedience, making the “easy” path offered by Babylon the harder one.
In the case of the woman caught in adultery, brought to Jesus by the scribes and Pharisees as part of a trap, the Lord saved her from the injustice of hypocrites, but he did not condone her behavior. He gave her another chance, with the admonition “go, and sin no more.” (John 8:11). He showed her true empathy by pointing her toward the correct path, not pandering to her weaknesses and telling her she was good enough the way she was.
In fact, he never counseled any sinful ways. Instead, he implored people to repent, have faith in God the Father, and in him, and seek the Holy Spirit. While he was unfailingly kind, he was also firm and undaunted in directing people toward eternal truths that would nourish them in mind, body, and spirit.
For without Truth, real compassion is impossible, as is true, lasting progress.
Christ never encourages us to remain in our sinful ways. The Truth might hurt sometimes, but He knows that without occasionally painful correction, we can never achieve the glory that is our real heritage. @real_housemd Share on XM.D. House is a semi-retired business professional. As an author, he started out writing science fiction, but became fascinated with the stories of Barabbas, Cornelius, and the Apostle Paul, among others, which has led him on an amazing and faith-affirming Christian fiction writing journey. He still writes clean, faith-based science fiction, along with some fantasy now, too. You can learn more about him at mdhouselive.com.
Comments 4
Important message, M.D. May our writing reflect it.
Thank you, and amen!
Thanks for your ACFW post today.
I’ve been thinking about consequences. We use consequences to teach children, ie If you run in the street, you’ll be spanked. If you disobey at home, you’ll have extra chores. If you mouth-off at school, you’ll have a time-out. But that’s not the way life works. Every day people violate the speed limit with impunity. Millions of underage teens drink and get away with it. People pirate music and download stolen ebooks, and think “it’s okay; everyone does it. Are consequences really effective?
The age-old question. We’re not smart enough to figure it out on our own, so it’s a good thing we have help. 🙂