The Ugly Christian

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

Some people are so filled with anger in their vigor to defend the Bible, they turn people away from Christ instead of toward Him.

When we look at the example Jesus gave in defending Himself, we do not see anger or even harshness. What we do see is a meek person standing strong. Meekness is controlled strength. It is like the magnificent stallion under the control of its master. It is humility and gentleness.

As Jesus stood before Pilate, he did not lash out as he did at the money changers who were using the Temple sacrifice for selfish gain. Put in a position to defend himself before the Pharisees, he did not become a wimp before them. He used controlled strength as he challenged their wrong thinking. He did not back down to their false teaching and allegations but stood with the firm knowledge that He was truth exemplified.

Jesus always stood strong, spoke firmly, and loved those who sought to destroy Him. He gave us the example we must follow.

Lord Jesus, I ask that you help me show love at those times it would be so easy to strike out in anger.