This is the third time I am coming to you. Every charge must be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses.
Bluntness is seldom pleasant when it is used on us but there is a lot to be said for its time-saving capabilities. As Paul brought his final message to the church in Corinth to a close, he was straightforward about what was coming. He was. Also, there would be a trial of sorts and Paul was already acting as his defense counsel and making some ground rules. These are not man made but right from Deuteronomy 19:15. Paul suspects that many accusations will be lodged at him and the quantity of charges makes guilt look more likely. Thankfully, God guarded against that by commanding that each charge be validated with witnesses. It is so wise, we continue it to this day. Paul would be able to answer the charges in person and he was confident of “acquittal”.
Come to Cape Community Church tomorrow as we seek to reinstate this principle in our lives. Trial by social media is changing the way we view the accused, where an invalid charge can go viral and guilt is presumed within minutes. In this case, bluntness could use a bit of nuance but short posts and tiny attention spans are leaving due diligence undone. Even our churches are quick to vilify other believers without the benefit of corroboration. Ours is a mean-spirited world and it calls for a Holy Spirited rethink of how we view Jesus, ourselves, and each other. Let’s examine ourselves!
Dear Lord, thank you for the law in your word and in our society to protect us from tyranny. Protect us from harm with your Bible and your provision. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church