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Dripping Springs Weekly Bulletins
Bumper Sticker Religion
You see them everywhere. Some are political, some commercial, and some religious. Many think “Christianity” has quit preaching and begun to let bumper stickers do our work for us. Perhaps, but you can take it from me that it won’t work. First, that is not what Jesus said to do. Second, a bumper sticker cannot reveal the Gospel. But a major reason may be that how we behave in our automobiles do not match what we claim to believe.
Having said that, I must make a confession: a bumper sticker almost got the better of me. I was on one of our major thoroughfares when a car, without signaling, cut in front of me and made a right turn. I had to brake quickly. Then I saw his bumper sticker, touting a candidate with whom I strongly disagree.
My first impulse was to honk the horn, shout angry words at the driver of the other vehicle. “That’s what you can expect from people who vote for ______.”
I didn’t honk or shout those angry words, but I had to think for a moment. What if I had given in to my impulse, having a “look at me, I’m a Christian” type of bumper sticker? Our influence as Christians depends, to a great extent, on what others see in us. If they already have a reason to reject the Bible, a bad example would just reinforce their prejudice.
What should people expect to see in those who claim to be Christians? Is it modest dress? Pure speech? Kind attitude to others? Positive influence?
EARLY CHRISTIANS FACED PREJUDICE
In those early days after Jesus’ resurrection, the apostles faced tremendous prejudice. Becoming a follower of Christ was a dangerous decision. But that did not deter their efforts, and when they appeared in public, their demeanor, their behavior allowed their enemies to see their enthusiasm and their faith.
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus,” Acts 4:13
What about our influence? We may not yet face the open opposition common in the first century, but people still watch us. At the football games. On the job. At the supermarket. In the classroom. They know we claim to follow Jesus, and they have an idea what that means. It just increases our responsibility to live a life consistent with our claim.
POSITIVE CHRISTIANITY
Bad behavior is an obvious negative, but the Bible speaks clearly of our need to “do good,” to have a positive influence on our neighbors and friends.
“Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land,” Psalms 37:3
“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men,” Galatians 6:10
“I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you,” Matthew 5:44
Instead of being satisfied with the knowledge that we have not done some evil thing, we must be ready unto “every good work,” Titus 3:1.
Men often pray for forgiveness for the sins of both “omission” and “commission.” But we all know that in our minds we have considered adultery and stealing as being worse than apathy and neglect. Too many believe that if we do not abuse our children, beat our wives, cheat on our taxes or steal from the boss we can compensate for a failure to give as we have been prospered, pray for our enemies, teach our friends and neighbors and “do good to all.” And if we have a good bumper sticker to show, so much the better.
HOW CAN I BE A GOOD EXAMPLE?
- The first step is to give yourself to Christ completely and without reservation. That is not only the way to be a good example, but it is what God has mandated, Matthew 6:33, Romans 12:1-2. When we take our “vocation” seriously, Ephesians 4:1, we will always be alert to every opportunity for Christ to live in us, Galatians 2:20. Until then, we will serve self first.
- Then we must take advantage of every opportunity to exhibit genuine Christian behavior. This is not for personal gain or acclaim, but to lead others to the abundant life in Christ, John 10:10-11.
- Since we belong to Christ, we must take special care to live for Him, even more so in difficult, trying circumstances. As hard as it seems, we can resist the temptation to retaliate. Remember, good examples lead others to Christ and the hope of heaven.
- The key is in the principle of “love one another,” and “love thy neighbor,” James 2:8. It may be hard to “like” some people, but we can still seek their best interests. That’s the meaning of biblical love.
Let’s stay cool in traffic and lay off the horn.
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“Nothing is so contagious as example, and our every really good or bad action inspires a similar one.”
“Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another.”
Nathan to David: “By this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme,”
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How to Remain Friends Amidst Controversy
There is no way to completely avoid controversy among brethren. Recognizing this, we need to be determined to remain friends in spite of our differences. If you and I are friends we will seek every option available to us to maintain our relationship, but if we are merely acquaintances, we may not be that concerned about it. Indeed, “A friend loves at all times…” Proverbs 17:17 (NKJV).
Differing convictions put a strain on us, posing potential for a break in friendships, which increase the chances of division. This should cause us to do all we can to remain friends even though we have disagreement. I have some suggestions as to how to remain friends even when we differ.
- Study together the issues that threaten unity. To avoid discussion on matters of disagreement is only delaying the inevitable.
- Avoid name calling. Usually the “brands” are not appreciated by the one being “branded.” At the same time recognize the difficulty in completely avoiding labels, and determine not to be “hurt” if one is used in referring to your position.
- Avoid broad generalizations. Do not assume that your friend believes and/or practices everything that is advocated by those with whom he is associated. It is unfair to claim he has swallowed the camel because he has swallowed some gnats.
- Avoid ridicule. No one likes to be ridiculed. Treat him and his beliefs with the same dignity that you expect him to have toward you and your beliefs. Always speak kindly and respectfully.
- Assume good motives on the part of him with whom you disagree. He probably is trying as much as you to please God. If not, let God deal with that problem. You wouldn’t want him to impugn your motives!
- Try to understand the opposing position. Truly listen to the other point of view instead of “tuning him out” while you prepare your next argument.
- Determine to part as friends. Even if you don’t come to an agreement, be committed to maintaining your friendship. If the friendship can survive, opportunity still exists for unity.
The question may arise: What if the person with whom I disagree is not a friend? Then I suggest, treat him just like a friend, and likely he will become your friend. Remember, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother,” (Proverbs 18:24 (NKJV).
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