As I study more about Paul and the early church, without the lens of Western Christianity, the more I’m convinced that Paul wanted the whole gospel spread to the whole world. I believe he was a pacifist who wanted new Christians to obey the laws of their time UNLESS those laws impeded what are now considered basic human rights. Obey the law when it’s morally acceptable, and don’t when it’s not. I believe that his interpretation of morally acceptable directly related to loving God and loving each other.
I don’t believe that sin is found in how we dress, what form of entertainment you prefer, or in your willingness or ability to leave your brain at the door. I believe that sin is directly proportionate to the love we show others. Especially when we disagree with their political views, religion, or lifestyle.
Paul’s words were never about how to reach people, but always about how to live so your life was the testimony.
I believe that America has become obsessed with the idea of identifying sin based on culture and social cues, instead of on the Word of God. Instead of being concerned with the trap of legislating grace and creating an environment of legalism instead of freedom, we have created corporations out of mercy, and we withhold the true message of the gospel for fear of monetary loss.
Just imagine the impact America would have in spreading the gospel if as a country she applied those same principles that us as individuals are admonished to abide by.
I’m not talking about the principles of working for your food, but of giving freely as God gave freely. I’m not talking about the principles of abolishing abortion or gay marriage, but of if your enemy compels you to walk one mile, walk two. I’m not talking about the principles of destroy the enemies of God, but of love your enemy. I’m not talking about the principles of pending doom and judgement, but of love and peace.
The interesting thing about faith? None of that makes sense, but faith never does. A lot of evangelical and fundamental churches constantly ask us to ignore logic and human reasoning when it comes to excluding people from grace. It’s time to do the same so we can include everyone.
True Christianity is about doing the right thing, even if you lose your comfort, standard of living, or life.
Just imagine.
The Ashley Smith Blog 