Chase the Setting Sun...

A conversation recently got me thinking about my (and our) response as a Christian to potentially offensive actions, words, lifestyles etc. Are we too easily offended by the things people say or do around us? Do we jump to quickly to judge others on their words and actions?


First of all, I think as Christians we should be offended by sin. Sin is offensive. We all have it in our lives and should be repulsed by it. However, when dealing with other Christians and non-Christians I don't think we should show offense to almost anything at first glance.


If you know me, you know I tend to say what is on my mind. I rarely shy away from voicing my opinion in most situations. I can remember many times while at Taylor University that I would voice and opinion or say something that would obviously offend someone else. Sometimes the offense was merited, sometimes it was not. Occasionally I would say something off color or out of place that might be deserving of the reaction I got. Sometimes though, my words were just me working through something in my faith and talking about it.


All people are at different stages of their faith journey. Some are deep into their relationship with Christ, some are just beginning, and some are far from the start of it. I believe as a Christian I should be offended by sin and sinful language, but at the same time be slow to show offense. Rather I should be quick to show love and understanding of someone who is visibly showing sin in their life.


When we immediately get an offended look on our face when someone swears, or does something overtly sinful, or offensive, we immediately turn that person off to a possible relationship that could benefit them and the kingdom.


Just a quick thought. What do you think?