We're reading through the 40-year journey of the Israelites in church and our home groups. This week the home group topic was Rahab. Seems like a pretty straightforward story, right? A prostitute has heard about the mighty God that is kicking butt on behalf of the Israelites, so she decides to help the spies who are checking out Jericho. They really appreciate it, and she and her family are saved when the Israelites come back and take over.
Here's the thing - the question was asked, "What do you make of the New Testament's affirmation of "Rahab the prostitute" (Heb 11:31, James 2:25)?" One of the answers (multiple choice or fill in your own) was "God's grace is more inclusive than ours". So the assumption is that many of us don't believe people in different circles, different circumstances, etc., deserve grace.
I have a problem with that. I believe that Jesus died for everyone. But here's my struggle. I think that sometimes our consequences are necessary for our growth. What do I mean? I mean, I don't/won't help some people when they keep making the same stupid mistakes over and over and over again. Does that mean I'm not grace-filled? Does that mean that I should be a doormat? What does that look like in real life??
I guess I'm wrestling with my THOUGHTS and FEELINGS of grace towards people and my ACTIONS or lack thereof towards people who I don't think "deserve" my help.
Any help?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Well, first let me say that you are not alone in your anxiety over this. I don't have any thorough thoughts on the matter, but dwelling on it casually I am struck by Paul's admonitions to believers in his various letters and, more strikingly, to Jesus "spewing" the church of Laodicea (sp) out of His mouth. That doesn't seem to fit the definition of unlimited grace that you are talking about.
ReplyDeleteBut, I wonder...if some one is making a "stupid mistake" over and over again, are they really understanding the grace that has been given to them through faith in Christ? In other words, have they really been transformed by grace?
Or, what about an "ends-justifies-the-means" approach to grace? I don't mean to suggest that you do evil things, but rather hard-to-swallow sorts of tactics. Tough love, if you will.
The father of the prodigal son allowed his son to leave, squander his wealth and live an impure lifestyle. It wasn't until he returned that his father ran to him and extended him grace.
I don't know. I'm rambling before bus duty.
Thought provoking post. Thanks.
Marc
This is a tough one... thank goodness our God is a God of grace and mercy! And I think the more we understand His forgiveness in relation to us, the more willing we are to forgive and extend grace and mercy to others. That said, the Bible also has a lot to say about reaping and sowing... he who does not work shall not eat... and the Proverbs are full of verses against laziness. I agree with Erin; it's a really fine line... The best I can figure, it goes back to repentance like Mark referenced with the prodigal son. God can forgive endlessly, but that doesn't mean we can sin endlessly or enable others to do so... Since we cannot see the heart as He does, we are left with the old "actions speak louder than words" And I think we can extend grace without being a doormat - anytime we forgive someone who didn't ask for it we accomplish this; doesn't mean we maintain the relationship- there are still consequences until we see change...??? posted on Jon's account by Dana (Jon's wife)
ReplyDeleteI think Paul said it best "Should we sin so grace may abound? No!" (paraphrase) Indeed I think we are called to forgive but also recognize the difference between reconcilation and forgiveness. We need to define clear boundaries with someone who repeatedly offends. Yes I believe we should forgive but we should also remember to limit our exposure to those whose behavior patterns are destructive. Just a quick thought.
ReplyDeleteJon
I'm not sure I had read these before - thanks! And Dana, I'm glad you jumped in. :-)
ReplyDeleteI think it was easier when I was first saved - at that point it was the "big" stuff to change (lying, swearing, etc.). At this point in my walk, it's a lot more internal and a lot more wrestling with God. Guess that shows growth?
Erin,
ReplyDeleteI've been meaning to post some stuff here again. Thanks for "reminding" me.
Marc