We Need Conviction, Not Encouragement

It was still early and our Cities4Life team had not yet arrived. I was pacing, as I always do, in the brisk morning calling out to women as they got out of their cars to see if the abortion center door was unlocked yet. In those few seconds we have as the women go from their cars to the door, our team tries to offer the network of help and resources we have collected, as well as the truth and hope of God. It is a tall order in fifteen seconds, but sometimes that is the only time we will be allotted to be a voice speaking on behalf of the unborn baby.

A couple of days ago, a woman from the group of “clinic defenders” approached me with a smile. I smiled back, hopeful. We all pray for the abortion-supporters and do engage in conversation when there are no mothers within earshot we might reach. The abortion-supporter told me, “I am not coming to be saved.”

She was actually going to the fellow abortion-supporter on the curb, not coming to talk with me. I thought it was wonderful that she knew if she spoke to me, my intention would be to share the truth of the Gospel. There are worse things to be known for.

The director of Cities4Life, who is a visionary always examining how closely we can be more like Jesus in our ministry, has often pointed out that Jesus was approachable. I think of that often. Sinners flocked to Jesus. They ran from Him of course in the end and He was left all alone to face His accusers and then the full wrath of God in paying the penalty for our sins. But while His mission was still to spread His message while walking in the flesh among us, people were drawn to Him.

There are things I know He DIDN’T do to draw others to Him. He didn’t develop a great music ministry. He didn’t have exciting programs targeted to specific age groups with amazing production facilities. He didn’t stoke people’s egos with words of comfort and promises of peace and prosperity. He didn’t downplay sin. 

There were also things He did do. He did meet needs sometimes. Sometimes He fed the hungry, sometimes He even provided wine. Sometimes He healed physical ailments. However, given the vast crowds that surrounded Him, it is telling that He didn’t do those things ALL the time...or even MOST of the time. He was brutally honest about sin, and bold in calling people to account for their sin. He did not shrink from touching the untouchables or from eating with those whom society would hardly consider the elite or powerful. He mingled with the poor, the down-trodden, and the simple people. In fact, He is rarely seen in the company of the rich or famous, and usually has pretty harsh words for those in powerful positions.

What is apparent in His ministry in nearly every interaction is He rarely spoke words of affirmation, but words of conviction.

Matthew 4:10 NIV

[10] Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.' ”

Matthew 4:17,19 NIV

[17] From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” [19] “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”

Matthew 5:11-12,20-22,27-28,39-40,44,48 NIV

[11] “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. [12] Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. [20] For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. [21] “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' [22] But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, 'Raca,' is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell. [27] “You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' [28] But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. [39] But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. [40] And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. [44] But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, [48] Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

I could go on, but you get the idea. Jesus does not coddle. He does not encourage. He convicts us of our hopelessness and points us to the absolute only solution...HIM. His admonitions never suggest following Him so that our life on earth is wonderful. He always points to the reward of Heaven, of eternity with God, clothed in the righteousness that Jesus gives us through His atoning death on the cross.

He is right there, on the frontlines, confronting the people who most need to hear His message. He speaks truth. Always.

How can I be effective is NOT the right question. How can I speak and behave more like Jesus? Where am I called to reflect His light?

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