If You’re Not Offending…

Lately I’ve been giving some challenging messages to my church. Overall, people are receiving them well and doing something with them in their lives in return. We have, however, lost some people because of the challenges, changes, and expectations set within the church. I was talking to a friend of mine about this and how sometimes it can be very disheartening to a leader to know that even though you are doing the right things; you lose people along the way who are not on board with the direction you are going.

My friend pointed out something to me that really encouraged me and has caused me to reflect on her statement. She said that in my line of work (pastoring), that if I am not offending people, that I am not doing my job. And even though it’s hard to swallow; it’s true.

The Bible says that the message of the cross is offensive! Jesus offended people when he spoke the truth! The Apostles offended people when they spoke the truth. Ultimately, it cost all of them their lives- with the exception John.  Jesus never at the end of His messages, said,” Did you like it?” The answer was usually no for many of the people. At times the entire crowd walked away while He was speaking. At times the crowds he was speaking to tried to throw Him off the cliff. Etc…

Sometimes, well most of the time, what we preach- if we are true to the Gospel- will be offensive but if it is preached in grace, love, hope, humility and power it will not return void. After all, it was the teachings of Jesus that utterly changed the world and that continue to do so today. The Kingdom will grow and people will find life-changing relationship in Christ. I’ll keep pushing forward and lives will be changed to the glory of God and the advancement of His Kingdom. And I can’t wait to see the harvest!