Galatians 5:19-21
Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Cary Nieuwhof’s YouTube channel talked about Bully Pastors who operate to gain digital followers instead of shepherding the flock. Their process is to find a hot topic, have a hot take, heatedly attack anyone who disagrees, and watch their channel get hot with clicks. He pointed out that it more closely resembles the above fruit of a different spirit than the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 are memory verses but you wouldn’t know it sometimes from our discourse as Christians. Paul saw it clearly in the Galatian churches where he was personally attacked for disagreeing with circumcision for believers, not exactly essential doctrine. The gospel took a back seat to this dispute. His response was also fiery, but appropriate.
The gospel is the most important Good News in the history of the world. It should be breaking news on every news channel and every social media outlet. Yet, our breaking news is often about a “heretic” preacher and what he posted or said. Nieuwhof was right when he said that our public persona is discipling someone. We are to teach that God so loved the world. Jesus died and rose again, and is coming back to reign. The gospel is the simple answer to a lot of complex issues. It doesn’t make headlines but it makes disciples.
O Heavenly Father, how great thou art. You have given us the greatest story ever told. May it go viral today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.