Paul had a thorn in the flesh. It was a handicap to keep him humble. If what he got is humility then without the thorn it would have been a sight to behold.
I’m wondering if we can use the same principle but turn it around. Could we be thorns in the flesh to try and bring people to spiritual growth. I think of a friend being a thorn in the flesh to the pastors he had to work with. The man needed someone to keep him on edge, to ask him the hard questions and face him with reality.
It could be that many of us have that role. It doesn’t have to be aggressive. In fact I would recommend a gentle and courteous demeanor. When he presents some juicy heresy act mystified and ask him for his references. Pretend like it is your memory problem not his theology.
Of course if you have a personality like Paul you might mention him next time you write a letter to the church in Galatia.
homo unius libri
Welcome to Varied Expressions of Worship
Welcome to Varied Expressions of Worship
This blog will be written from an orthodox Christian point of view. There may be some topic that is out of bounds, but at present I don't know what it will be. Politics is a part of life. Theology and philosophy are disciplines that we all participate in even if we don't think so. The Bible has a lot to say about economics. How about self defense? Is war ethical? Think of all the things that someone tells you we should not touch and let's give it a try. Everything that is a part of life should be an expression of worship.
Keep it courteous and be kind to those less blessed than you, but by all means don't worry about agreeing. We learn more when we get backed into a corner.
This blog will be written from an orthodox Christian point of view. There may be some topic that is out of bounds, but at present I don't know what it will be. Politics is a part of life. Theology and philosophy are disciplines that we all participate in even if we don't think so. The Bible has a lot to say about economics. How about self defense? Is war ethical? Think of all the things that someone tells you we should not touch and let's give it a try. Everything that is a part of life should be an expression of worship.
Keep it courteous and be kind to those less blessed than you, but by all means don't worry about agreeing. We learn more when we get backed into a corner.
Opus 2025-409: Reverse the Thorn
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Good advice!
ReplyDeleteNow if I can just follow it myself.
DeleteGrace and peace,
Pumice