It is not uncommon to hear the argument against [insert favorite ODM whipping boy here] that s/he is popular with or respected by the “world”. Conversely, disdain by the “world” is seen as a stamp of godliness.
Now certainly, Jesus did warn His disciples that if He was getting persecution, they definitely would. But one of His disciples also noted that sometimes we suffer simply because we’re booger-heads (1 Peter 2:20). As with many things there is a distinction made here, and “A” does not always imply “B”.
John Calvin wrote about this distinction, and Tim Keller quotes him and expounds on the thought. Keller (citing Calvin) notes the danger of missing the distinction, and suggests that those that miss it are acting not out of courage, but out of pride.
A good, quick read. I recommend it to you.
6 Comments(+Add)
Oh, no. I cant read this. John Calvin was an evil murderer. Anything he has to say is irrelevant because over 500 years ago, according to revisionist historians, he did bad things.
Farel seems not unlike many who seek to denounce and destroy almost anyone today. Sometimes false boldness emanates from fear and insecurity, while grace and humility are clandestine overtures of true boldness.
How mixed up is the church today, and how little we even know of the true Jesus, aside from the self serving theological constructs that serve as little else but dead bages of creedal orthodoxy.
I am often not popular with myself. When I find myself popular with myself, I am usually unpopular with God. (so to speak)
John,
Concerning comment number 1–it’s about time you recognize the truth.
jerry
No revising necessary. He did do those things. I however find Calvin to be admirable in theology if not in character which allows me to read him. As I do with others whom I may disagree. Maybe you should stretch out John and actually read those whom disagree. It may grow you. As a wise man once said “The tree needs both the sun AND rain to grow strong.”
If the shoe fits, obfuscate.