There is one thing I have learned about hatred. If an indwelt believer stays engaged in the person who is demonstrating hatred, it opens the door for salvation.
This article deeply challenges many. I want to post a letter I wrote to one of my readers, a dear friend, who struggled with taking action on the post.
"I get it. Not everyone is called to the frontlines to engage with people of hatred. However, we need to know how to respond when confronted by them.
Indwelt Christians, guided by their faith in Christ, often approach rejection with resilience and a willingness to engage – at least, they should. Most believe rejection can be overcome by accepting the TRUTH (Jesus) that God made each individual beautifully and for a special purpose. However, when some act hatefully, the Bible teaches that God does not show favoritism and loves each of us unconditionally. That belief is where the rubber hits the road.
Indwelt believers need to reject any thoughts, words, or actions contrary to being called to accept all – both real believers and those in the process of becoming saved in Christ. Remembering the love of God is needed in the darkest places of ministry. You're right, sis; you cannot pursue what I do; you must pursue what He wants to do through you. It will look different.
We all must find comfort in believing that God is close to the brokenhearted and will never forsake them. Therefore, even in the face of rejection, you and I, sis, must release the shining light of Christ. God can heal all wounds of rejection through Jesus. Ultimately, this perspective allows Christians to engage with rejection in a constructive and healing manner.
All of us who are in Christ are called to never give up on loving others, which is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Word encourages us to love others unconditionally, just as God loves the rejecter. This love is not dependent on the worthiness of the other person. It's about leading by example and loving so radically that others wonder why we are so different.
Even when faced with challenges or disappointments, we are urged to persevere in our faith and continue to love others. The Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith and love through the trials and challenges of life – even financially. It teaches that enduring through doubt often leads to a supernatural release of Jesus from within.
Jesus Himself modeled Godly servanthood and the appropriate setting of boundaries, showing that it's possible to help others without being taken advantage of - this is likely your greatest struggle. When we find the balance, freedom rings in the halls of our minds without losing who we are in Christ.
So, in Christ, the act of loving others who reject us becomes a testament of faith, a demonstration of God's love, and a beacon of hope and resilience. It's a commitment given to us to never give up on people, reflecting God's enduring love for all of us."
Folks, thanks for the red hearts of love. I am a blessed man that so many embraced the power contained in this post. You all are deeply loved and appreciated from this old-time writer.
I needed this today Dr Phinney been in a dark season but held on to JESUS. Love is the answer to persecution even satanic persecution. The first church had to run for their life's even hiding underground, today we must run to the cross... We fight not against flesh n blood. I love you my friend
Sorry about the "hard season," Mark. I get those as well. You're right, hanging on to Christ within us is the solution. Instead of running to the Cross, which was critical for our salvation, run inwardly to His Life. As believers, the Cross is past tense. Today, the redemption within us from that Cross is alive and well - ready to deliver us from self-focus.
Dear Stephen, when I read this piece the other day I was really touched by it by I also struggled to process it. Only a few weeks ago I was evangelising and discussing God's amazing forgiveness with a man. We talked about how God forgives everyone, even those who have committed terrible crimes of sexual abuse and murder; if they truly repent. The man struggled to accept this truth at first. It was easy for me to say this whilst evangelising, but when I read your story it made me realise that there is a big difference between talking the talk and walking the walk. I have not evangelised to any serial killers or those who have committed extremely heinous acts. I googled Ted Bundy and found an article that explained his bio and crimes. Before long I had to stop reading, it made my heart hurt. Suddenly, I was placing levels upon sin and wondering how Bundy could be offered salvation after the heinous, despicable, deplorable acts he committed. I honestly even wondered if his repentance was sincere...
I was also perplexed at my own wrong thinking; these feelings that came up that did not align with God's grace. I was really struggling. God began to remind me that we all fall short of the glory of God. I had to go to Daddy God in prayer to sort out where I was at with this! This is what I journaled (I believe it is from God):
"Reckless love", that's what some call it, but it is redemption. Being saved from the clutches of Satan. Depraved hearts have hope. Grace alone Emma. Avoid comparisons. All have fallen short of God's glory. God wishes for no man to perish but all to come to repentance and be saved. He who has not sinned, throw the first stone. Stephen forgave.
The "Stepen" in the last sentence is twofold: Stephen the first martyr of the Church and you, brother Stephen.
Thank you for sharing your amazing and powerful experience.
Wow, Emma. That is the kind of honesty and self-awareness God honors. If we were to watch Biblical Paul slaughter innocent first-generation Christians, we would be tempted to call him the devil - even though he was bound by Satan at the time. As we know, God saw his passion and election and intervened. Today, his writings are the most read by those he persecuted. No man//woman is beyond the reach of the Grace of God.
Thanks for your post, it is interesting, but I think you have taken your argument too far.
You said:
Now, that is the question of the hour. First, there is a question that needs to be asked. Are these self-proclaimed Christians real-deal believers? Secondly, if saved, are these believers who lack bravery fearful of the cost of sacrificing one’s life for the sake of the Gospel?
We don't have to stand and fight their foolish hatred.
I don't blame anyone for leaving a hate filled discussion, it is not cowardly but wise:
Pro_14:7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceive not in him the lips of knowledge.
Pro_29:9 If a wise man contends with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.
If you want to stay and argue then that is your prerogative.
Are you are judging others who take the better part of valour, being discretion?
Pro 26:4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
Pro 26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
There is a time to debate and a time to desist, and that is up to the individual to determine, not for others to judge if they should stay or not.
Do these believers lack bravery?
Or do you lack wisdom in staying and bothering to argue with fools?
Martin, I agree with you on not debating fools. My article was to establish the fact that humanity is born into sin, thus "hardwired" to hate until they become indwelt by Jesus Christ. Believers who walk after their flesh cower under fear, thus, are in need to put on the full armor of God. The war is not against the people who express hate, it is in fighting what is NOT flesh and blood, but rather powers and principalities of the air - demonic forces. Finally, we are commanded to love sinners (unsaved) no matter how hateful they are. It is a part of our role to lead them to Jesus.
my comment was not written to you, but to Dr. Stephen Phinney
I totally agree that we should not waste our time on fools, but sometimes it is worthwhile, and it is sometimes difficult to determine if a person is a fool that is worth spending our time with or not.
It takes wisdom from God to discern, there are no simple one size fits all solutions to this sort of question.
I think you have got carried away with your argument, and not read what the scripture actually says.
You say "Outside of Jesus’s beloved John, the same John who wrote the book of Revelation, all the disciples betrayed Jesus in His moment of despair. They either fell asleep on the job or at the Cross, ran, and hid like scared dogs."
John fell asleep with the others. He is one of the sons of Zebedee that was with him. (Matt 26:37, Matt 4:21)
John also ran away, for they all forsook him. (Matt 26:56, Mark 14:50)
John and Peter both followed those who took Jesus, apparently after they initially fled in the garden
" And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.
But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. John 18:15-16
It was appropriate that they should run away
Mat_26:31 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
Mar_14:27 And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.
Jesus foretold that they would all leave, and it was his will for them to do so.
Do you dare to judge the apostles of Christ as being scared dogs?
Perhaps you think you would have stayed, when the shepherd tells you that you will go?
Now that is a mouthful. LOL. Spiritual warfare is a crucial aspect of being a believer in Christ Jesus. It’s a battle against unseen forces that seek to disrupt our faith and lead us astray. As believers, we’re called to put on the full armor of God, standing firm against the schemes of the devil with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God as our weapons. This spiritual warfare is not just a defensive stance but an offensive strategy, enabling us to reclaim the ground from the enemy and live victoriously in Christ. Remember, “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world - that's for certain. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:4). Thanks for the most excellent comment!
This article deeply challenges many. I want to post a letter I wrote to one of my readers, a dear friend, who struggled with taking action on the post.
"I get it. Not everyone is called to the frontlines to engage with people of hatred. However, we need to know how to respond when confronted by them.
Indwelt Christians, guided by their faith in Christ, often approach rejection with resilience and a willingness to engage – at least, they should. Most believe rejection can be overcome by accepting the TRUTH (Jesus) that God made each individual beautifully and for a special purpose. However, when some act hatefully, the Bible teaches that God does not show favoritism and loves each of us unconditionally. That belief is where the rubber hits the road.
Indwelt believers need to reject any thoughts, words, or actions contrary to being called to accept all – both real believers and those in the process of becoming saved in Christ. Remembering the love of God is needed in the darkest places of ministry. You're right, sis; you cannot pursue what I do; you must pursue what He wants to do through you. It will look different.
We all must find comfort in believing that God is close to the brokenhearted and will never forsake them. Therefore, even in the face of rejection, you and I, sis, must release the shining light of Christ. God can heal all wounds of rejection through Jesus. Ultimately, this perspective allows Christians to engage with rejection in a constructive and healing manner.
All of us who are in Christ are called to never give up on loving others, which is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Word encourages us to love others unconditionally, just as God loves the rejecter. This love is not dependent on the worthiness of the other person. It's about leading by example and loving so radically that others wonder why we are so different.
Even when faced with challenges or disappointments, we are urged to persevere in our faith and continue to love others. The Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith and love through the trials and challenges of life – even financially. It teaches that enduring through doubt often leads to a supernatural release of Jesus from within.
Jesus Himself modeled Godly servanthood and the appropriate setting of boundaries, showing that it's possible to help others without being taken advantage of - this is likely your greatest struggle. When we find the balance, freedom rings in the halls of our minds without losing who we are in Christ.
So, in Christ, the act of loving others who reject us becomes a testament of faith, a demonstration of God's love, and a beacon of hope and resilience. It's a commitment given to us to never give up on people, reflecting God's enduring love for all of us."
Forever unified in Christ, Stephen
Folks, thanks for the red hearts of love. I am a blessed man that so many embraced the power contained in this post. You all are deeply loved and appreciated from this old-time writer.
I needed this today Dr Phinney been in a dark season but held on to JESUS. Love is the answer to persecution even satanic persecution. The first church had to run for their life's even hiding underground, today we must run to the cross... We fight not against flesh n blood. I love you my friend
mark
Sorry about the "hard season," Mark. I get those as well. You're right, hanging on to Christ within us is the solution. Instead of running to the Cross, which was critical for our salvation, run inwardly to His Life. As believers, the Cross is past tense. Today, the redemption within us from that Cross is alive and well - ready to deliver us from self-focus.
Absolutely sir spot on my friend
Dear Stephen, when I read this piece the other day I was really touched by it by I also struggled to process it. Only a few weeks ago I was evangelising and discussing God's amazing forgiveness with a man. We talked about how God forgives everyone, even those who have committed terrible crimes of sexual abuse and murder; if they truly repent. The man struggled to accept this truth at first. It was easy for me to say this whilst evangelising, but when I read your story it made me realise that there is a big difference between talking the talk and walking the walk. I have not evangelised to any serial killers or those who have committed extremely heinous acts. I googled Ted Bundy and found an article that explained his bio and crimes. Before long I had to stop reading, it made my heart hurt. Suddenly, I was placing levels upon sin and wondering how Bundy could be offered salvation after the heinous, despicable, deplorable acts he committed. I honestly even wondered if his repentance was sincere...
I was also perplexed at my own wrong thinking; these feelings that came up that did not align with God's grace. I was really struggling. God began to remind me that we all fall short of the glory of God. I had to go to Daddy God in prayer to sort out where I was at with this! This is what I journaled (I believe it is from God):
"Reckless love", that's what some call it, but it is redemption. Being saved from the clutches of Satan. Depraved hearts have hope. Grace alone Emma. Avoid comparisons. All have fallen short of God's glory. God wishes for no man to perish but all to come to repentance and be saved. He who has not sinned, throw the first stone. Stephen forgave.
The "Stepen" in the last sentence is twofold: Stephen the first martyr of the Church and you, brother Stephen.
Thank you for sharing your amazing and powerful experience.
Wow, Emma. That is the kind of honesty and self-awareness God honors. If we were to watch Biblical Paul slaughter innocent first-generation Christians, we would be tempted to call him the devil - even though he was bound by Satan at the time. As we know, God saw his passion and election and intervened. Today, his writings are the most read by those he persecuted. No man//woman is beyond the reach of the Grace of God.
That's so true Stephen. Amen! Praise be to Jesus!
Very insightful article. I really needed it today. Thanks 🙏
Well, Dennis, we men understand being "hardwired." LOL I am glad you liked it.
Thanks for your post, it is interesting, but I think you have taken your argument too far.
You said:
Now, that is the question of the hour. First, there is a question that needs to be asked. Are these self-proclaimed Christians real-deal believers? Secondly, if saved, are these believers who lack bravery fearful of the cost of sacrificing one’s life for the sake of the Gospel?
We don't have to stand and fight their foolish hatred.
I don't blame anyone for leaving a hate filled discussion, it is not cowardly but wise:
Pro_14:7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceive not in him the lips of knowledge.
Pro_29:9 If a wise man contends with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.
If you want to stay and argue then that is your prerogative.
Are you are judging others who take the better part of valour, being discretion?
Pro 26:4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
Pro 26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
There is a time to debate and a time to desist, and that is up to the individual to determine, not for others to judge if they should stay or not.
Do these believers lack bravery?
Or do you lack wisdom in staying and bothering to argue with fools?
Martin, I agree with you on not debating fools. My article was to establish the fact that humanity is born into sin, thus "hardwired" to hate until they become indwelt by Jesus Christ. Believers who walk after their flesh cower under fear, thus, are in need to put on the full armor of God. The war is not against the people who express hate, it is in fighting what is NOT flesh and blood, but rather powers and principalities of the air - demonic forces. Finally, we are commanded to love sinners (unsaved) no matter how hateful they are. It is a part of our role to lead them to Jesus.
my comment was not written to you, but to Dr. Stephen Phinney
I totally agree that we should not waste our time on fools, but sometimes it is worthwhile, and it is sometimes difficult to determine if a person is a fool that is worth spending our time with or not.
It takes wisdom from God to discern, there are no simple one size fits all solutions to this sort of question.
I think you have got carried away with your argument, and not read what the scripture actually says.
You say "Outside of Jesus’s beloved John, the same John who wrote the book of Revelation, all the disciples betrayed Jesus in His moment of despair. They either fell asleep on the job or at the Cross, ran, and hid like scared dogs."
John fell asleep with the others. He is one of the sons of Zebedee that was with him. (Matt 26:37, Matt 4:21)
John also ran away, for they all forsook him. (Matt 26:56, Mark 14:50)
John and Peter both followed those who took Jesus, apparently after they initially fled in the garden
" And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.
But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. John 18:15-16
It was appropriate that they should run away
Mat_26:31 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
Mar_14:27 And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.
Jesus foretold that they would all leave, and it was his will for them to do so.
Do you dare to judge the apostles of Christ as being scared dogs?
Perhaps you think you would have stayed, when the shepherd tells you that you will go?
Now that is a mouthful. LOL. Spiritual warfare is a crucial aspect of being a believer in Christ Jesus. It’s a battle against unseen forces that seek to disrupt our faith and lead us astray. As believers, we’re called to put on the full armor of God, standing firm against the schemes of the devil with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God as our weapons. This spiritual warfare is not just a defensive stance but an offensive strategy, enabling us to reclaim the ground from the enemy and live victoriously in Christ. Remember, “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world - that's for certain. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:4). Thanks for the most excellent comment!