One of the toughest challenges to being a Christian in the western world right now is to stand firm in our beliefs and proclaim Biblical truths that don’t align with society’s current standards. While this certainly isn’t new to the church or even a matter of life and death, which being a Christian is for many brothers and sisters around the world - it is one of the greatest issues for people who walk away from the church and from their faith.
Why, many ask, does a loving God not love all people as they are? But this question already relies on a human misconception of love that roots our identities in the world rather than in God alone. As imperfect humans we cannot understand the depth or purity of God’s love for us and all humanity, but we can know and trust that he knows what is best for us.
“For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” 1 Cor. 13:12
If we as broken, finite humans can love (even to the depths felt by parents for their children), how much more so must the father love His creation! Perfect love casts out fear,(of rejection, ridicule, persecution...) and thinks of the soul’s eternal outcome as more important than fleeting “happiness” here and now. True love is found in God’s original design and purpose for humanity.
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Gen. 1:27) God created male and female. Our identity is not a thing to be crafted and chosen at will, but is found in Christ alone. Anything outside of God’s design and will is sin. But regardless of who, what, where, when or how, GOD LOVES YOU.
“Yet while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8
God longs for all of His creation to turn and seek him wholeheartedly. As we individually and corporately wrestle with bold statements of faith, let us be filled with grace and truth. Holding firmly to the uncompromising truth of God’s Word, I pray we may be willing to graciously love those around us in a way that does not seek the world’s approval but is honoring and glorifying to the Lord.