Guest Post by Ray Kingrea of Tree of Life Ministries
Pastor Kingrea writes “The Journey” posts daily via his Facebook page. Follow him on Facebook here.
The JOURNEY: Public Opinion
James 2:1 MSG — My dear friends, don’t let public opinion influence how you live out our glorious, Christ-oriented faith.
There it was, sticking out like a sore thumb. The very words of the scripture were flashing like a neon sign. There will always be some scripture that stands alone in its direction and force for our lives. I think this could be one of those scriptures.
James doesn’t even beat around the bush. He does let you know that you’re a “dear” friend, but after that he gets straight to the point, “don’t let public opinion influence how you live out”…your faith.
Our “glorious Christ-centered faith is really all we have that makes us complete, whole, holy, steadfast, immovable, trustworthy, solid, and eternally safe in the end. Without our faith we shift with “public opinion”. Public opinion can change at the drop of a hat. It can alter views and beliefs of the absolute authority of the Word. Public opinion can shift values and morality based on the Word.
James wants us keep our faith Christ-centered not public opinion driven. Think of it like this; Christ was never moved by public opinion and neither should we. He was a friend to anyone and everyone who would receive Him, but He always sought to move them to a faith centered around Him. That should be our goal, to help change the opinion of culture about Christ and move them to a life centered around Him. Don’t let the shifting winds of public opinion move you. Develop a strong “glorious, Christ-centered faith” and stay with it. It will keep you and it save you!
