When to "offend". Not every issue has to become a point of contention. When matters aren't clearly contrary to scripture, we need to prayerfully consider our response. It often seems to me that some people look for opportunities to initiate controversy.
In the text from the verse above Jesus and His disciples had been asked to pay a tax that wasn't mandatory for them to pay, but to keep the peace He was willing to go beyond what was required so as not to incite more trouble. Although not obligated, Jesus was setting an example of how we need to respond at times, not because we have to, but to demonstrate to others what we ought to do.
The Bible is clear that when we stand for truth, we will offend people. It comes with the territory of being believers. That being said, there are so many nonessential battles. Knowing that the gospel message will be viewed as offensive doesn't give Christ-followers permission to make choices that purposefully cause heightened disagreements. We must never exchange the truth for a lie, but we also don't embellish it to get our own way, reflecting negatively needlessly.
Every issue does not need to become a dramatic power play. We need to choose our battles. The response to offense is too often defense. When something isn't in direct disobedience to God's word, we need to relinquish personal rights, and like Jesus, walk the higher road. Could it inconvenience us? Yes. Might it cost us? Most likely. Will it help others see Jesus more clearly? I pray that it will.
Let's not make mountains out of molehills. Our obedience to Christ and His word will naturally offend others without our going out of the way to give them ammunition to hate Him more. There are some things we just need to let go for the sake of Christ. Instead of challenging every little thing today, let's choose to go the extra mile and in love bless others in the name of Jesus.
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