Speaking God's Truth In Love

There are times when we must “earnestly contend for the faith” (Jude 1:3 KJV). But in doing so, we must never be ungracious or antagonistic. The English Puritans were right when they said that faith can never be forced on another person. Consent must be gained by gentle persuasion (2 Corinthians 5:10-11).

Today’s Scripture reading underscores that principle. Paul told Timothy that “a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all” (2 Timothy 2:24). He wanted Timothy to be thoughtful and relevant in proclaiming the truth, not defensive. When people opposed the truth, he was to gently correct them in the hope that God would “grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil” (2 Timothy 2:25-26).

What was true for a young preacher like Timothy, applies to all Christians. Those who oppose us are not the enemy, but victims of the enemy. They can be delivered, Paul insisted, but we are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:14-15).

Truth without love is dogma that does not touch the heart. Love without truth is sentimentalism that does not challenge the will. However, when God’s truth is spoken with love, God can use it to change someone’s mind.

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets